April Simone
Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist
Rosharon,TX
Summary
Innovative, experienced healthcare professional with more than 20 years of clinical experience.
Cardiovascular professional with comprehensive expertise in surgical procedures and patient care. Proven ability to support complex surgeries, ensuring seamless operations and contributing to positive patient outcomes. Known for collaborative spirit and reliability in dynamic settings, with key skills in endovascular procedures and surgical supply management.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist
CHI St. Luke’s Health
04.2024 - Current
- Enhanced teamwork among medical staff through effective communication and collaboration during highly complex surgical procedures.
- Strengthened quality assurance measures by meticulously tracking instrument processing, sterilization techniques, and equipment maintenance schedules.
- Expedited turnaround times between surgeries through proficient cleaning, disinfecting, and restocking of operating rooms following each procedure.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient-specific treatment plans for optimal surgical outcomes.
- Increased departmental efficiency by participating in continuous education programs and staying current on advancements in cardiovascular technology.
- Employed specialized procedural knowledge and equipment to improve surgical outcomes.
- Promoted a culture of safety and accountability by participating in regular departmental meetings, discussing challenges, successes, and areas for improvement within the cardiovascular surgery team.
- Fostered a culture of excellence within the team through dedicated mentorship of junior technologists entering the field of cardiovascular surgery.
- Streamlined workflow in the OR by organizing tools and instruments needed for each procedure, minimizing delays during surgery.
- Improved patient outcomes by assisting with complex cardiovascular surgical procedures and providing expert technical support.
- Enhanced surgical efficiency by preparing operating rooms with necessary equipment and instruments for cardiovascular surgeries.
- Optimized resource utilization by maintaining inventory of supplies and equipment required for cardiovascular surgeries.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Collaborated with Radiology department to obtain optimal imaging results during endovascular procedures.
- Maintained high standards of equipment performance, conducting routine quality control checks and troubleshooting as needed.
- Enhanced staff competence through regular training sessions on best practices and new advancements in endovascular surgical technology.
- Provided critical input on new technology implementation, participating in the procurement of supplies, and evaluating potential benefits to the endovascular program.
- Participated actively in continuous improvement initiatives within the CVOR environment, focusing on process optimization for enhanced efficiency.
- Supported successful interventions by setting up devices such as balloons, stents, lasers, and pacemakers for proper use during procedures.
- Streamlined workflow in the CVOR, coordinating with multidisciplinary team members for efficient patient care.
- Created an environment of safety between the CVOR team and Cath Lab, which included the generation of a managed emergency supplies cart.
- Maintained accurate inventory levels of supplies, ensuring timely replenishment to prevent disruption in service delivery.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure support of surgical procedures.
- Enhanced storeroom organization by redesigning storage layouts and implementing an control system for easy tracking.
- Worked closely with purchasing department to monitor supplier performance metrics, ensuring continued alignment with the CVOR objectives.
- Coordinated with suppliers to negotiate improved products, resulting in cost savings.
- Maintained a clean and well-organized work environment, promoting safety and efficiency among team members.
- Provided excellent customer service by quickly responding to inquiries and resolving concerns related to inventory availability or shipment status.
- Provided detailed information on inventory levels and movement trends, providing valuable information for decision-making purposes.
- Reduced stock shortages by closely monitoring inventory levels and promptly ensuring the ordering necessary supplies.
- Reduced waste by identifying and addressing issues in stock rotation practices.
- Requisitioned new supplies and maintained storage areas for smooth department operations.
- Monitored and managed inventory and supply levels of sterile and non-sterile items, increasing physician satisfaction and patient outcomes.
- Developed strong relationships with physicians and multi-department staff, enhancing overall cooperation between them within the hospital setting.
- Played an active role in departmental process improvement initiatives, helping to identify areas for potential growth or enhancement.
- Streamlined workflow for the department by efficiently coordinating with physicians and other medical personnel.
- Contributed to team success by cross-training in multiple modalities, providing flexibility in covering various shifts as needed.
- Enhanced patient care by accurately performing special procedures, ensuring timely surgical treatment.
- Assisted in budget management for the department by monitoring inventory levels and recommending cost-saving measures where feasible.
Lead Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist
Houston Methodist
05.2018 - 03.2024
- Constructed Inventory base, education, and continuity of the TAVR program.
- Effectively controlled costs through economical utilization of materials and equipment.
- Monitored emerging technologies and continuously improved performance of the Cardiovascular and Vascular programs.
- Managed Preference Cards for the Vascular and Cardiovascular surgeons.
- Enhanced Robotic-Cardiovascular team needs.
- Cultivated a strong skills and knowledge base within the team.
- Reduced waste by standardization of instruments and products.
- Member of the Endovascular Supplies Committee.
- Facilitated conversions and reductions of redundant supplies.
- Engaged with surgeons, staff, and vendors in decision making with products and instruments.
- Lead Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist on ParX inventory control integration.
- Improved patient outcomes by assisting with complex cardiovascular surgical procedures and providing expert technical support.
- Enhanced surgical efficiency by preparing operating rooms with necessary equipment and instruments for cardiovascular surgeries.
- Optimized resource utilization by maintaining inventory of supplies and equipment required for cardiovascular surgeries.
- Helped physicians complete cardiac issues and peripheral vascular concerns by assisting with procedures such as pacemaker insertions and balloon angioplasties.
- Provided clinical input and recommendations for setting par levels and inventory through analyzation of usage reports, trends, and clinical data for the Cardiovascular and Endovascular inventory supply needs.
- One of three finalists for Nursing Champion for the Houston Methodist 2019 Nursing Awards
- Assisted in life-saving interventions by providing critical support during emergency situations involving cardiac patients.
- Ensured patient safety by monitoring vital signs and observing for complications throughout the surgical process.
- Promoted a culture of safety and accountability by participating in regular departmental meetings, discussing challenges, successes, and areas for improvement within the cardiovascular surgery team.
- Facilitated smooth handoffs with relief personnel with detailed reporting of completed cases, ongoing care needs, and upcoming surgeries on the schedule.
- Minimized risk of complications by conducting thorough pre-operative assessments, including patient medical history and known allergens.
- Fostered a culture of excellence within the team through dedicated mentorship of junior technologists entering the field of cardiovascular surgery.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards through adherence to established policies, procedures, and protocols relating to cardiovascular surgical practice.
- Streamlined workflow in the OR by organizing tools and instruments needed for each procedure, minimizing delays during surgery.
OR Coordinator, Surgical Technologist III
Memorial Hermann
09.2013 - 02.2018
- Minimize excess costs through evaluation of supplies and process improvement
- Collect and analyze data related to department operational activities
- Monitor and ensure appropriate supplies are available
- Coordinate with clinical and non-clinical services to ensure surgical schedule and procedures run efficiently
- Develop and implement special projects as directed by the executive team
- Clinical Care Redesign
- Pyxis Discrepancies Action Plan
- PBDS Surgical Pack Charter Program
- Serve as a preceptor, mentor, and resource for the organization
- IGenerate Council Member
- Perform procedural needs evaluation, identifying opportunities for business growth
- Development and maintenance of the Endovascular program
- Identify, communicate, and facilitate the resolution of departmental operational problems, collaborating with management to resolve complex problems
- Partner with clinical and non-clinical groups throughout the organization to develop process improvement initiatives
- Standardization of emergency carts
Surgical Technologist
WakeMed Health & Hospitals
06.2009 - 08.2013
- Designed, implemented, and maintained mobile pediatric procedure carts, providing documented need for services to assist with the attainment of the certificate of need (CON) for primary pediatric operating rooms
- Maintained working knowledge of surgical procedures in all services
- Developed and implemented activities involving emergency airway procedures, policies, and training
- Participated in systemic, interdisciplinary evaluation of programs and process improvement projects, including the creation of a round table
- Addressed retention issues through the promotion of individual growth, supporting goals, and building value based relationships
- Maintained project tracking and accountability systems; developed effective educational tools for process improvement goals
- Identified and corrected inefficiencies within the supply management system
- Provided IT assistance and education
- Aligned with clinical and non-clinical groups to develop process improvement initiatives, such as the standardization of the airway carts
- Served as a preceptor, mentor, and resource for the organization and affiliated groups
- Interfaced regularly with internal and external buyers and sales representatives
- Proposed and implemented process to reduce turnover times
Certified Surgical Technologist
REX Healthcare
09.2005 - 06.2009
- Awarded as reprocessing champion; established reprocessing program leading to an 80% reduction in medical waste
- Team Leader for the surgical technologist clinical ladder program
- Served as a preceptor, mentor, and resource for the organization and affiliated groups
- Managed the equipment and supply action team for the ambulatory care unit
- Supported the coordination of case flow within the operative suite
- Directed the employee retention focus group
- Provided IT assistance and education within the department
Certified Surgical Technologist
Duke Healthcare
05.2005 - 09.2005
- Managed operating room materials procurement and procedure supplies
- Served as a preceptor, mentor, and resource for the organization and affiliated groups
- Collaborated with multiple departments and multidisciplinary teams for the attainment and realization of organizational goals
- Maintained a working knowledge of surgical procedures in all services
- Initiated atmosphere of teamwork by involving all levels of staffing in department projects
Certified Surgical Technologist
First Health of the Carolinas
08.2001 - 05.2005
- Managed the orthopedic surgical services unit
- Developed educational presentations for staff, students, and local community college
- Managed inventory control and budget for orthopedic service line
- Partner with clinical and non-clinical groups to develop process improvement initiatives
- Initiated atmosphere of teamwork through the involvement of all levels of staffing in department projects
- Assisted the local community college as liaison to facilitate graduates into the health care workforce
- Implemented training matrix for new employees and students accessible online and/or face-to-face and served as a preceptor, mentor, and resource
Bio-Process Manufacturing Technician
Wyeth-Lederle Vaccines & Pediatrics
01.2000 - 01.2001
- Maintained a safe work environment by enforcing safety protocols and conducting routine inspections.
- Troubleshot equipment issues, minimizing downtime and keeping production on track to meet deadlines.
- Increased overall productivity by training new technicians and providing ongoing support to team members.
- Recorded and documented all maintenance activities in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Performed routine equipment calibration to maintain consistent product quality and adherence to specifications.
- Documented all manufacturing activities, maintaining accurate records for reporting purposes and quality assurance audits.
- Enhanced product quality through meticulous monitoring of manufacturing processes and regular equipment maintenance.
- Reduced waste by optimizing material usage and adhering to strict quality control measures.
- Supported cross-functional teams in achieving project goals, collaborating effectively with colleagues from various departments.
Nuclear Systems Operator
Carolina Power & Light
01.1998 - 01.1999
- Improved plant safety by regularly conducting equipment inspections and maintaining compliance with industry regulations.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives through diligent documentation of operating parameters for trend analysis purposes.
- Contributed significantly towards meeting annual production goals through effective execution of planned outage activities.
- Developed detailed understanding of plant systems through extensive hands-on experience working with piping, valves, pumps, turbines, generators, and instrumentation.
- Reduced downtime during maintenance tasks by closely monitoring equipment performance and scheduling repairs in a timely manner.
- Assisted engineers in analyzing equipment failure root causes resulting in recommendations for preventive measures.
- Coordinated with external agencies such as NRC inspectors during periodic reviews of plant operations and compliance status.
- Safeguarded employees'' health by meticulously monitoring radiation exposure records and enforcing dose limits where necessary.
Nuclear Systems Operator
Northeast Utilities
03.1997 - 01.1998
- Maintained a high level of professionalism and integrity by adhering to strict confidentiality requirements in handling sensitive plant information.
- Contributed to successful refueling outages by assisting with fuel handling activities while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols.
- Played a key role in emergency preparedness efforts by participating in drills designed to test response capabilities under various scenarios.
- Minimized risks to personnel and the environment by strictly adhering to established radiation protection guidelines and procedures.
- Enhanced team performance by providing comprehensive training on plant procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to address technical issues, leading to faster resolution times and improved system reliability.
- Performed surveillance tests, gathered data and inputted information into internal database for further review and permanent recordkeeping.
- Reported findings to supervisors following manipulations of reactors during periods of shutdown.
Engineering Shift Manager Staff Assistant
Nucon International
01.1997 - 03.1997
- Maintained high levels of nuclear safety through rigorous training programs and adherence to established protocols.
- Worked with director and other production staff to assess requirements and advocate for associated equipment needs or important safety standards.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with automated equipment and implemented appropriate safety measures.
- Streamlined incident reporting process to ensure timely investigation and resolution of safety concerns.
- Demonstrated constant safety awareness and critically evaluated situations for potential risks.
Operations Utilities Technician
American Ref-Fuel
01.1995 - 01.1997
- Maintained a safe work environment by strictly adhering to established safety protocols and guidelines.
- Trained new technicians on standard operating procedures, ensuring consistency across the team.
- Performed troubleshooting and diagnosis on malfunctioning equipment.
- Completed complex repairs quickly by leveraging strong diagnostic skills and attention to detail.
- Demonstrated adaptability when faced with new challenges or technologies, enabling quick mastery of necessary skills.
- Actively participated in continuous learning initiatives to stay updated on industry trends and advancements in technology.
- Promoted sustainability, recommending and implementing eco-friendly technical practices and solutions.
- Maintained meticulous records of maintenance activities, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Education
Master of Health Administration -
Pfeiffer University
Master of Business Administration -
Pfeiffer University
Bachelor of Science - Health Services Management
East Carolina University
Associate of Science - Surgical Technology
Sandhill's Community College
International Healthcare and Economics
Skills
- Sterile technique proficiency
- Patient care coordination
- Continuing education commitment
- Emergency response preparedness
- Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Multitasking
- Analytical thinking
- Continuous improvement
- Data analysis
- Inventory optimization
- Demand forecasting
- Supply chain coordination
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Cost reduction
- Vascular procedures
- Angiography expertise
- Interventional procedures
- Angioplasty techniques
- CPR certification
Accomplishments
- Achieved endovascular supply base by coordinating surgical needs and surgeon preferences with accuracy and efficiency.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams in the development of an envienvironment of safety with the creation of the CVOR emergency supplies cart for procedures done in the Cath Lab.
- Collaborated with numerous surgsurgical specialists in the development of the Supercharge, Bariatric, Lithotomy, and various other supply par within the CVOR.
Certification
BLS, American Heart Association
Timeline
Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist
CHI St. Luke’s Health
04.2024 - Current
Lead Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist
Houston Methodist
05.2018 - 03.2024
OR Coordinator, Surgical Technologist III
Memorial Hermann
09.2013 - 02.2018
Surgical Technologist
WakeMed Health & Hospitals
06.2009 - 08.2013
Certified Surgical Technologist
REX Healthcare
09.2005 - 06.2009
Certified Surgical Technologist
Duke Healthcare
05.2005 - 09.2005
Certified Surgical Technologist
First Health of the Carolinas
08.2001 - 05.2005
Bio-Process Manufacturing Technician
Wyeth-Lederle Vaccines & Pediatrics
01.2000 - 01.2001
Nuclear Systems Operator
Carolina Power & Light
01.1998 - 01.1999
Nuclear Systems Operator
Northeast Utilities
03.1997 - 01.1998
Engineering Shift Manager Staff Assistant
Nucon International
01.1997 - 03.1997
Operations Utilities Technician
American Ref-Fuel
01.1995 - 01.1997
Master of Business Administration -
Pfeiffer University
Bachelor of Science - Health Services Management
East Carolina University
Associate of Science - Surgical Technology
Sandhill's Community College
International Healthcare and Economics
Master of Health Administration -
Pfeiffer University
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