Alicia Amaral
Middleboro,MA
Summary
Dynamic Histology Technician with proven expertise at BMC South, adept in immunohistochemical testing and laboratory safety protocols. Recognized for enhancing workflow efficiency and reducing turnaround times through meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills. Committed to delivering accurate results while fostering a collaborative team environment.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Histology Technician
BMC South
06.2004 - Current
- Assisted in preparing and processing tissue samples for microscopic examination.
- Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with safety protocols.
- Supported pathologists by organizing and labeling specimen slides accurately.
- Learned to operate histology instruments, including microtomes and embedding centers.
- Conducted routine maintenance of histology supplies to ensure availability for procedures.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline sample processing workflows.
- Documented laboratory processes and maintained accurate records of specimens processed.
- Adapted quickly to changing priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment.
- Reduced turnaround time for test results by streamlining histology procedures and workflow.
- Maintained a high level of quality control, ensuring accurate and reliable test results for patients.
- Improved diagnostic accuracy with meticulous attention to detail in slide preparation and staining.
- Reviewed slides for quality control prior to sending to pathologists.
- Troubleshot inconsistencies and identified errors to trace root causes and implement corrective actions.
- Minimized infection risk by regularly cleaning and disinfecting work areas and equipment.
- Documented routine laboratory instrument maintenance and corrective actions.
- Cut, mounted and stained samples from hospital patients suffering from acute and chronic concerns.
- Completed complex histological procedures to prepare slides for analysis.
- Sorted specimens according to priority and difficulty of procedures and recorded all processes in pathology log.
- Monitored inventory levels of supplies, equipment, and reagents used and placed orders for replacements.
- Operated instrumentation for tissue dehydration and section clearing.
- Conducted tests correctly to obtain accurate results used to support patients' needs and diagnose conditions.
- Prepared solutions, stains and reagents in accordance with standards.
- Stayed current on changing procedures to offer expert support for histology laboratory activities.
- Assisted in troubleshooting equipment issues, minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity levels.
- Organized inventory management systems to maintain adequate supplies and prevent stock shortages.
- Trained new histology technicians, sharing best practices and improving overall team capabilities.
- Conducted regular maintenance on laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and functionality.
- Actively participated in internal audits and inspections resulting in consistent compliance with accreditation standards.
- Managed workload effectively under tight deadlines, prioritizing cases based on clinical urgency.
- Developed standard operating procedures for the histology lab, promoting consistency across all tasks.
- Adapted quickly to new technologies, learning new software platforms that improved workflow within the department.
- Performed complex tissue embedding processes, preserving samples for future analysis or archival purposes.
- Complied with all safety protocols and regulatory requirements to maintain a safe working environment in the lab.
- Collaborated with pathologists, providing essential information for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
- Compiled and maintained preventive maintenance and instrument performance check records according to schedule and regulations.
- Carried out specific tests and preparation requirements based on orders.
- Operated microtomes to section body tissues for microscopic examination.
- Cut body tissue sections for microscopic examination using microtomes.
- Kept laboratory equipment in good working order with regular maintenance.
- Embedded tissue specimens into paraffin wax blocks or infiltrated tissue specimens with wax.
- Maintained laboratory histologic manuals to standardize procedures.
Data Entry Clerk, Customer Service, Marketing Asst
Chapman Manufacturing
05.1998 - 11.2011
- Processed high-volume data entries with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Maintained organized records and files, ensuring easy retrieval of information.
- Utilized advanced spreadsheet tools to streamline data management tasks.
- Organized, sorted, and checked input data against original documents.
- Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.
- Provided excellent customer care by responding to requests, assisting with product selection and handling ordering functions.
- Assisted in developing promotional materials and content for social media channels.
- Input new data, updated old records and cross-checked information to keep marketing database up-to-date.
Shift Supervisor, Front Store Clerk, Pharmacy Tech
Rite-Aid Pharmacy
09.1995 - 05.2008
- Supervised daily operations to ensure workflow efficiency and compliance with safety standards.
- Trained and mentored staff, fostering a collaborative team environment for improved productivity.
- Completed store opening and closing procedures and balanced tills.
- Managed cash handling procedures, maintaining accuracy in financial transactions and minimizing discrepancies in daily reconciliations.
- Responded to and resolved customer questions and concerns.
- Answered incoming phone calls and addressed questions from customers and healthcare providers.
- Stocked, labeled, and inventoried medication to keep accurate records.
- Counted and labeled prescriptions with correct item and quantity.
Pathology Lab Assistant
Caritas Good Samaritan Medical Center
06.2001 - 06.2004
- Processed and prepared specimens for diagnostic testing, ensuring adherence to laboratory protocols.
- Maintained laboratory equipment, performing routine calibrations and minor repairs to ensure operational efficiency.
- Conducted quality control checks on samples to guarantee accuracy and reliability in test results.
- Trained junior staff on laboratory procedures and safety protocols, fostering a culture of compliance and teamwork.
- Collaborated with pathologists to streamline specimen handling workflows, enhancing turnaround times for results.
- Provided exceptional support during autopsies, assisting in sample collection and documentation as needed.
- Exhibited strong problem-solving skills when faced with challenges such as equipment malfunctions or unexpected changes in workload volume.
- Collaborated effectively with fellow lab assistants, fostering a positive work environment conducive to teamwork and shared success.
- Actively engaged in continuous process improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to streamline workflows and enhance overall laboratory operations.
- Maintained a clean, well-organized workspace to optimize productivity and prevent cross-contamination of samples.
- Demonstrated flexibility in adapting to changing workloads or priorities, consistently meeting deadlines without sacrificing quality or attention to detail.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Marine Biology
University of New Hampshire
NH05-2001
Skills
- Laboratory safety protocols
- Immunohistochemical testing
- Administrative support
- Laboratory information systems
- Organizational skills
- Multitasking Abilities
Timeline
Histology Technician
BMC South
06.2004 - Current
Pathology Lab Assistant
Caritas Good Samaritan Medical Center
06.2001 - 06.2004
Data Entry Clerk, Customer Service, Marketing Asst
Chapman Manufacturing
05.1998 - 11.2011
Shift Supervisor, Front Store Clerk, Pharmacy Tech
Rite-Aid Pharmacy
09.1995 - 05.2008
Bachelor of Science - Marine Biology
University of New Hampshire