Donna Balletta
Cape Coral,FL
Summary
Hands-on certified Histotechnologist committed to efficiently preparing patient tissue specimens with a passion for veterinary medicine. Excellent documentation, communication, and presentation skills.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Pathology Lab Technical Lead, HT
Millennium Physician Group
Ft. Myers, Florida
01.2022 - Current
- Manages day to day operations in Histology
- Performs all phases of routine and special histological techniques at appropriate rate with minimal errors
- Assists with development, writing, and implementation of all histology policies and procedures
- Maintains all lab equipment and troubleshoots equipment malfunctions
- Provides technical support for clients, lab staff, and pathologists
- Responsible for all compliance standards for CAP and CAP proficiency testing
- Assures Pathology department adheres to all regulatory organization safety, security, and quality standards (CAP, OSHA, CLIA)
- Ensures that equipment defects and malfunctions are reported and repaired
- Uses independent judgement, decision-making skills, and corrective action in evaluating test procedures, patient results, and specimen integrity
- Evaluates competency of all laboratory personnel and ensures employees maintain their competency to perform moderate/high-complexity procedures
- Manages histology staff and conducts annual reviews
- Interview, hire and train lab technicians to perform experiments and analyze results.
- Keeps equipment maintained, facility clean and organized and inventory stocked to maximize performance.
- Coordinates set-up of new surgical sites to facilitate ease of specimen requisition
- Prepares monthly billing for pathologists
Histotechnologist
Millennium Physician Group
Fort Myers, FL
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Perform gross examination and description of surgical specimens; perform all histological procedures including processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and coverslipping; preparation of gyn and non-gyn cytological preparations
- Prioritize testing procedures and completes those procedures in an accurate and timely manner and maintains proper accurate records of all tests done in accordance with established policies, procedures and regulations
- Prepare media, chemicals, reagents and solutions
- Maintain accurate documentation, including computerized documentation, in accordance with established policies, procedures and regulations
- Perform molecular testing on Hologic Panther
- Train all new incoming histotechnologists and lab assistants
Histotechnologist
Florida Cancer Specialists
Ft. Myers, FL
05.2018 - 01.2020
- Perform gross examination and description of surgical specimens; perform all histological procedures including processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and coverslipping; preparation of gyn and non-gyn cytological preparations
- Prepare chemicals, reagents and solutions
- Maintain accurate documentation, including computerized documentation, in accordance with established policies, procedures and regulations
- Perform immunohistochemical staining with Leica Bond
- QA/QC of antibody staining after each run; antibody dilutions
Veterinary Technology Instructor
Heritage Institute
Fort Myers, FL
05.2014 - 11.2016
- Classroom and laboratory/field instruction for Large Animal Nursing
- Enhanced students' technology skills by incorporating hands-on activities and real-world applications into lessons
- Developed engaging curriculum content, resulting in increased student interest and understanding of technology concepts.
- Enhanced clinical learning experiences by incorporating innovative teaching strategies and relevant case studies.
- Assisted in curriculum development to ensure alignment with accreditation standards and best practices in veterinary nursing education.
- Evaluated student performance through ongoing assessment, providing constructive feedback and promoting academic growth.
- Provided a supportive learning environment by addressing individual student needs and fostering open communication.
- Placed internship students in private veterinary practices, monitored students' progress and coordinated with practice managers to ensure student success
Owner/Professional Pet Sitter
The Cat's Meow
Cape Coral, FL
09.1998 - 02.2007
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Provided daily dog walks/cat visits, mental stimulation, exercise, feeding and medications upon request
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
Certified Veterinary Technician
Kindness Animal Hospital
Cape Coral, FL
01.1996 - 09.1999
- Reduced patient stress during visits by utilizing low-stress handling techniques and creating a comfortable atmosphere.
- Increased the accuracy of diagnoses by proficiently operating various laboratory equipment for sample analysis.
- Provided compassionate nursing care for hospitalized animals, closely monitoring their condition and administering medication as prescribed.
- Offered support to grieving clients during end-of-life discussions and euthanasia procedures, demonstrating empathy and understanding.
- Conducted dental cleanings under veterinarian supervision to maintain oral health in patients.
- Mentored junior veterinary technicians through hands-on training sessions, sharing knowledge of best practices in animal care.
- Triaged incoming patients to determine treatment needs and urgency of care.
- Prepared surgical instrument packs and drapes for use in sterile environments by processing in autoclave.
- Provided care for animals before surgeries, administering anesthetics as necessary for overall comfort and health.
- Restocked surgical and office supplies to keep all necessary materials easily accessible.
- Performed radiograph testing to assist doctors in making informed diagnoses and determining best treatment plans.
- Collected patient biopsies and blood samples for laboratory analysis.
- Ensured timely response to emergencies by providing immediate triage assessments and administering first aid when needed.
- Educated pet owners on proper animal care practices, contributing to better long-term pet health outcomes.
Education
Associate of Science - Histologic Technology
Harcum College
Bryn Mawr, PA05.2018
Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology
Harcum College
Bryn Mawr, PA05.1995
Skills
- Detail-oriented
- Emotional Intelligence
- Conflict Resolution
- Works well independently and in a team environment
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Workflow optimization
Timeline
Pathology Lab Technical Lead, HT
Millennium Physician Group
01.2022 - Current
Histotechnologist
Millennium Physician Group
01.2020 - 01.2022
Histotechnologist
Florida Cancer Specialists
05.2018 - 01.2020
Veterinary Technology Instructor
Heritage Institute
05.2014 - 11.2016
Owner/Professional Pet Sitter
The Cat's Meow
09.1998 - 02.2007
Certified Veterinary Technician
Kindness Animal Hospital
01.1996 - 09.1999
Associate of Science - Histologic Technology
Harcum College
Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology
Harcum College