HEATHER HANSEN
Glendale,AZ
Summary
Detail-oriented surgical professional with over 13 years of experience in high-acuity surgical environments, specializing in operative and anesthesia practices. Expertise includes sterile technique, instrumentation, anesthesia monitoring, surgical preparation, and intraoperative support, ensuring optimal patient outcomes. Proven Team Lead with a strong ability to train staff, coordinate operating room workflows, and provide critical support to surgeons during complex procedures. Committed to maintaining the highest standards of care and enhancing team efficiency in fast-paced settings.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Surgical Technician / Team Lead (OR)
Southwest Veterinary Surgical Service
12.2023 - Current
- Coordinate OR workflow and staff assignments; train and mentor surgical technicians; prepare OR suites and instrumentation; maintain sterile fields; assist surgeons intraop; administer and monitor anesthesia; support complex and emergency cases; ensure compliance with safety and infection-control standards.
- Team Lead: April 2025 – Present
Anesthesia & Surgical Technician
Cape Cod Veterinary Specialists
04.2022 - 10.2023
- Provided anesthesia support for orthopedic, soft tissue, and emergency surgeries; assisted with surgical prep, imaging, and recovery; supported ICU and emergency response; documented care in EMR systems.
- Assisted veterinarians during surgical procedures by preparing instruments and ensuring a sterile environment.
- Monitored patients' vital signs throughout surgeries to ensure safety and effectiveness of procedures.
Surgical & Anesthesia Technician
Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital
12.2020 - 04.2022
- Assisted in surgical procedures and anesthesia administration; performed surgical prep; maintained sterile technique; provided postoperative recovery and patient care.
- Conducted routine laboratory tests, including blood work and urinalysis, to support accurate diagnosis and treatment plans.
- Educated pet owners on post-operative care and preventative health measures to enhance animal well-being and reduce risks.
- Mentored junior technicians in best practices for animal handling and emergency response protocols during critical situations.
Education
Veterinary Technician - CVT Program
Penn Foster College
Veterinary Assistant Certification -
Apollo Community College
Phoenix, AZHigh School Diploma -
Centennial High School
Peoria, AZ05-2005
Skills
- Aseptic Technique
- Surgical Instrumentation
- OR Setup
- Scrub & Circulating Support
- Anesthesia Monitoring
- Patient Positioning
- Emergency Procedures
- Team Leadership
- Documentation
- Workplace safety
Timeline
Surgical Technician / Team Lead (OR)
Southwest Veterinary Surgical Service
12.2023 - Current
Anesthesia & Surgical Technician
Cape Cod Veterinary Specialists
04.2022 - 10.2023
Surgical & Anesthesia Technician
Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital
12.2020 - 04.2022
Veterinary Technician - CVT Program
Penn Foster College
Veterinary Assistant Certification -
Apollo Community College
High School Diploma -
Centennial High School