Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Volunteer Work
Languages
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Jessica Balena

Brandywine,MD

Summary

Compassionate Veterinary Technician with over 13 years of experience, known for high productivity and ability to efficiently complete tasks. Skilled in diagnostic testing, anesthesia administration, and patient care management. Excels at communication, empathy, and problem solving, ensuring positive outcomes for both animals and owners. Devoted to giving every client a positive and memorable experience.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Veterinary Technician

Potomac Animal Wellness Services
Indian Head, MD
08.2016 - Current
  • Listened to clients' questions and concerns regarding pets and delivered timely responses and information on treatment protocols and procedures.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
  • Provided excellent service and attention to customers when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
  • Used high-tech equipment to assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures.
  • Shaved surgical areas and placed IV catheters in preparation for surgery.
  • Assisted veterinarian with surgical procedures by assembling and sterilizing instruments and administering anesthesia.
  • Monitored vital signs during surgery and notified veterinarian of changes.
  • Scrubbed, counted and packed surgical instruments and drapes for autoclave sterilization.
  • Assisted veterinarians in performing surgical procedures by preparing the operating room, monitoring anesthesia levels, and administering medications to animals.
  • Performed routine laboratory procedures for hematology, urinalysis and serology.
  • Participated in educational seminars related to veterinary medicine topics in order to stay up-to-date on current trends and best practices.
  • Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
  • Processed incoming calls from clients seeking advice or requesting appointments.
  • Managed patient records including entering data into computer system, filing paperwork and updating information.
  • Prepared and reviewed records and consent forms.

Veterinary Technician

Prince Frederick Animal Hospital
Prince Frederick, MD
05.2015 - 07.2016
  • Used high-tech equipment to assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures.
  • Adhered strictly to safety protocols while working with hazardous materials such as drugs and chemicals.
  • Dispensed prescription medications upon request from veterinarians.
  • Shaved surgical areas and placed IV catheters in preparation for surgery.
  • Assisted veterinarian with surgical procedures by assembling and sterilizing instruments and administering anesthesia.
  • Scrubbed, counted and packed surgical instruments and drapes for autoclave sterilization.
  • Monitored vital signs during surgery and notified veterinarian of changes.
  • Cleaned and maintained equipment used in veterinary practices such as cages, examination tables, autoclaves.
  • Maintained accurate records of all treatment provided to animals including medical history files and vaccination certificates.
  • Assisted with euthanasia when necessary according to veterinarian instructions.
  • Cleaned and sanitized equipment and surfaces to protect animal and staff health.
  • Collected samples of bodily fluids to analyze for parasites or other diseases.
  • Operated x-ray machines and exposed radiographic films.
  • Operated anesthesia, oxygen and monitoring equipment.
  • Prepared and reviewed records and consent forms.
  • Performed routine laboratory procedures for hematology, urinalysis and serology.
  • Participated in educational seminars related to veterinary medicine topics in order to stay up-to-date on current trends and best practices.
  • Educated clients on proper animal nutrition and preventive health care techniques.

Veterinary Technician

Waldorf Well Pet Clinic
Waldorf, Maryland
01.2012 - 04.2015
  • Used high-tech equipment to assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures.
  • Obtained relevant health history and information from clients to maintain medical charts.
  • Cleaned and maintained equipment used in veterinary practices such as cages, examination tables, autoclaves.
  • Maintained accurate records of all treatment provided to animals including medical history files and vaccination certificates.
  • Conducted regular inspections of kennel areas to ensure cleanliness standards were met.
  • Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
  • Observed animal physical conditions to detect illness or unhealthy conditions requiring medical care.
  • Prepared and labeled medications and instructed client on administration.
  • Operated x-ray machines and exposed radiographic films.
  • Prepared and reviewed records and consent forms.
  • Delivered excellent service to pet owners to drive repeat business.
  • Administered vaccinations and performed routine laboratory tests to check for any abnormalities in an animal's health condition.
  • Assisted with polishing, removing stains and other dental procedures.

Education

High School Diploma -

Homeschooled
Maryland
06-2010

Skills

  • Client education
  • Credit card payment processing
  • Displayed a courteous and empathetic attitude toward clients
  • Adjusted and learned quickly to new software
  • Prepared Google Drive documents
  • Demonstrated strong attention to detail
  • Gram-stained slide preparation
  • Intravenous injection
  • Experienced in a high stress environment
  • IDEXX lab equipment
  • Thoracic and abdominal radiograph
  • Microscopy techniques
  • Dental procedures
  • General anesthesia monitoring
  • Surgical preparation
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Maintaining treatment notes
  • Instrument pack sterilization

Affiliations

  • Astrophotography
  • Several different types of arts/crafts projects
  • 3D printing

Volunteer Work

  • Volunteered with NASA in 2024 for the Total Solar Eclipse live broadcast. Had several virtual meetings with team members from NASA in Microsoft Teams. Discussed technical issues and helped problem solve. Quickly learned how to use OBS studio for live streaming from my telescope. Used Unity intercom for communicating during broadcast rehearsals.

Languages

English
Professional

Certification

  • K Laser therapy certified

Timeline

Veterinary Technician

Potomac Animal Wellness Services
08.2016 - Current

Veterinary Technician

Prince Frederick Animal Hospital
05.2015 - 07.2016

Veterinary Technician

Waldorf Well Pet Clinic
01.2012 - 04.2015

High School Diploma -

Homeschooled
Jessica Balena