Karen Eklund
Atwater,CA
Summary
I am a well-trained Hemodialysis Technician efficient in handling daily patient loads while maintaining strict safety protocols. I can manage both clinical and administrative needs with excellent multitasking and organizational skills. I am quality-driven, reliable, and responsive to individual patients' needs. I am known to be detail-oriented, observant, and equipped with the knowledge to successfully manage dialysis procedures. I offer a solid background as a skilled technician with a history of success in maintaining optimal patient care standards and I am proficient with cannulations, sample collection, and equipment operation. Fully qualified in CA. I am highly qualified in the areas of time management, critical thinking, advanced cannulation, task prioritization, patient monitoring, social perceptiveness, positive first impressions, direct patient care and measuring vital signs.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Home Health Aide
Loryal
Merced, CA
09.2023 - Current
- Helped patients maintain personal hygiene through bathing, grooming, and toileting assistance when necessary for dignity preservation.
- Maintained a clean and safe home environment for patients, reducing falls and accidents.
- Assisted clients with daily living activities, enhancing their independence and quality of life.
- Performed light housekeeping duties including laundry linen changes sweeping vacuuming and mopping ensuring a clean and organized living space for patients.
- Assisted patients with dressing, grooming and feeding needs, helping to overcome, and adapt to mobility restrictions.
- Improved patient well-being by providing compassionate and attentive personal care.
- Assisted with meal planning and preparation according to dietary restrictions, meeting nutritional needs while adhering to personal preferences.
- Completed entries in log books, journals, and care plans to accurately document and report patient progress.
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
- Followed nutritional plans to prepare optimal meals.
- Encouraged patients to participate in safe physical activity to help boost mood and improve overall wellness.
- Provided emotional support to patients and families during difficult times, promoting a positive atmosphere conducive to healing.
- Monitored changes in clients' conditions to report concerns to supervisor.
- Helped clients with managed home care, ensuring efficacy of care by monitoring health status.
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Satellite Healthcare
Turlock, CA
06.2023 - 08.2024
- Minimized complications related to vascular access sites by performing proper cannulation techniques using both needles and catheters according to established protocols.
- Reduced the risk of infections by adhering to strict infection control protocols during all procedures.
- Demonstrated excellent teamwork skills while assisting other technicians during busy shifts for optimal patient care delivery.
- Explained dialysis procedures to patients and answered questions and concerns prior to starting dialysis.
- Assisted patients with their pre-dialysis weight measurements, ensuring accurate assessment of fluid removal needs during the procedure.
- Measured and recorded patients' pre-dialysis and post-dialysis vital statistics.
- Cleaned and connected fistulas, grafts and catheters to prevent infection.
- Set-up equipment for dialysis and primed dialyzer in preparation for use.
- Demonstrated adaptability and flexibility when faced with unexpected challenges during a shift, using critical thinking skills to find effective solutions that maintained high-quality patient care standards.
- Completed required training courses on time, staying up-to-date with industry best practices and advancements in dialysis technology for improved patient outcomes.
- Performed routine quality control and safety checks on all equipment.
- Safely transported, transferred and positioned patients on chairs for treatment.
- Cared for patients by providing personal assistance and ambulation.
- Advised patients and families on health topics pertinent to care and treatment.
- Monitored patient vital signs, lab results and other indicators of health.
Direct Support Professional Caregiver
Adjoin
Merced, CA
04.2023 - 09.2023
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Maintained detailed documentation of client progress, daily activities, incidents, and relevant observations to ensure continuity of care across team members.
- Improved client quality of life by providing assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, toileting assistance.
- Cleaned house, ran errands, managed laundry.
- Ensured a safe and comfortable living environment for clients through regular housekeeping tasks and proactive maintenance reporting.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
- Supported clients'' emotional well-being by building rapport, providing companionship, and actively listening to their concerns.
- Managed challenging situations with empathy, patience, and effective problem-solving skills leading to positive outcomes for both clients and team members.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices in disability support services.
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
US Renal Care
Modesto, CA
09.2021 - 07.2022
- Obtained patient's blood samples via access site or dialysis lines.
- Participated in technical and clinical competency reviews to maintain dialysis treatment skill level.
- Reinforced patient and caregiver education to enhance understanding of disease and prescribed treatment protocols.
- Assisted with dialysis technician orientation and training to promote high standard of patient care.
- Disinfected dialysis station, equipment and chairs after completion of each patient treatment.
- Completed dialysis machine and equipment setup prior to patient treatment and performed safety tests to verify readiness.
- Responded to dialysis-related emergency situations under nurse supervision.
- Followed prescribed infection control protocols and wore personal protective equipment to minimize contamination risk.
- Performed dialysis access site cannulation and initiated dialysis treatment.
- Monitored each patient closely during treatment to check for any adverse reactions or change in condition and reported emergencies to attending nurses.
- Measured and recorded patients' pre-dialysis and post-dialysis vital statistics.
- Explained dialysis procedures to patients and answered questions and concerns prior to starting dialysis.
- Recorded client data on hemodialysis flow chart.
- Inventoried, ordered, and restocked equipment and supplies needed for hemodialysis treatment.
- Explained dialysis procedures and hemodialysis machine operation to patients prior to treatment to ease anxieties.
- Followed directions when mixing dialysate and priming dialyzer with saline or heparinized solutions.
In Home Health Care Aid
Landy Lamerson
Merced, CA
06.2021 - 09.2021
- Provided mobility assistance such as walking and regular exercising.
- Offered patients and families emotional support and instruction in preparing healthy meals, independent living and adaptation to disability or illness.
- Maintained records of patient care, condition, progress or problems to report, and discussed observations with supervisor or case manager.
- Administered prescribed medications under direction of physician.
- Traveled to clients' homes to complete healthcare services and promote continuity of care.
- Assisted patients with dressing, grooming and feeding needs, helping to overcome and adapt to mobility restrictions.
- Completed medical and program reports and maintained records following clinic standard operating procedures.
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
- Completed entries in log books, journals and care plans to accurately document and report patient progress.
- Developed rapport to create safe and trusting environment for care.
- Encouraged patients to participate in safe physical activity to help boost mood and improve overall wellness.
- Followed nutritional plans to prepare optimal meals.
- Supported families through difficult times by offering emotional support and education on important care tasks.
- Helped clients with managed home care, ensuring efficacy of care by monitoring health status.
- Provided direct personal care and administrative services to clients.
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Satellite Healthcare
Merced, CA
04.2019 - 05.2021
- Maintained detailed records with pre-and post-treatment data
- Managed both routine alarms and emergency situations with the same attention to detail and knowledgeable care
- Collected vital signs throughout treatments and updated files
- Advocated for patients under care, facilitating communication between team members, and maintaining exceptional care standards
- Improved patient compliance and long-term outcomes with proactive education strategies
- Prepared for incoming patients by removing disposable's, restocking supplies, and cleaning dialysis stations
- Managed smooth patient flows by keeping rooms stocked, clean, and sanitized
- Maintained patient records in SPIN, adding new treatments, observations, and diagnostic information with each interaction
- Prevented diagnostic and treatment errors with proper equipment calibration and maintenance
- Assessed safety risks on a continuous basis and adjusted strategies to minimize the potential for harm from tests and procedures
- Set a positive tone for all appointments with friendly greetings and attentive care
- Kept dialysis progressing at appropriate rates, measuring and adjusting rates of blood flow and fluid removal
- Protected patients with strict safety compliance, checking equipment and water, cleaning connections, and following aseptic techniques
- Coordinated effective intervention and support plans by liaising with clinicians and support staff.
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Davita
Merced, California
04.2008 - 04.2019
- Measured and recorded patients' pre-dialysis and post-dialysis vital statistics.
- Cleaned and connected fistulas, grafts, and catheters to prevent infection.
- Monitored each patient closely during treatment to check for any adverse reactions or change in condition and reported emergencies to attending nurses.
- Cleaned and disinfected hemodialysis machines, chairs, trays, room and equipment.
- Administered Heparin, oxygen, anesthetic, and saline as prescribed.
- Explained dialysis procedures to patients and answered questions and concerns prior to starting dialysis.
- Performed routine quality control and safety checks on all equipment.
- Set-up equipment for dialysis and primed dialyzer in preparation for use.
- Followed directions when mixing dialysate and priming dialyzer with saline or heparinized solutions.
- Provided in-patient care for 4 dialysis patients simultaneously focusing on providing clean, safe and comfortable treatment environment.
- Set up and operated dialysis machines for patients receiving treatment for kidney failure.
- Recorded patient's pre-dialysis weight, vitals and any new medical conditions.
- Conducted equipment and safety checks on hemodialysis equipment and supplies.
- Recorded client data on hemodialysis flow chart.
- Explained dialysis procedures and hemodialysis machine operation to patients prior to treatment to ease anxieties.
- Inventoried, ordered, and restocked equipment and supplies needed for hemodialysis treatment.
Patient Relations Liaison
Emanuel Medical Center/Davita
Turlock, California
01.2011 - 08.2013
- Conveyed policies and procedures to patients from medical and administrative standpoints
- Educated medical staff and patients by developing informational materials
- Improved quality of care with diligent attention to patient needs and delivery strategies
- Assisted patients with meeting financial obligations with the use of sliding scales
- Reduced risk and legal liabilities, consistently researching options and implementing recommendations
- Supported patient service needs by coordinating efficient referrals for additional resources
- Maintained knowledge of community services and resources available to patients
- Coordinated communication between patients, family members, and medical staff
- Delivered exceptional guest relations by welcoming visitors warmly and offering immediate assistance
- Kept all areas clean, organized, and in line with company professional standards
- Developed solid relationships with staff, customers, and vendors
- Helped team handle high-volume work by prioritizing tasks and organizing supplies
- Assisted customers with sales and service needs
- Completed accurate work tasks by carefully reviewing every order
- Approached and solved work problems with initiative and sound judgment
- Collaborated with team members to meet daily demands and handle challenging projects.
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Parkway Kidney Center
Modesto, CA
11.2002 - 04.2008
- Measured and recorded patients' pre-dialysis and post-dialysis vital statistics.
- Cleaned and connected fistulas, grafts, and catheters to prevent infection.
- Monitored each patient closely during treatment to check for any adverse reactions or change in condition and reported emergencies to attending nurses.
- Cleaned and disinfected hemodialysis machines, chairs, trays, room and equipment.
- Administered Heparin, oxygen, anesthetic, and saline as prescribed.
- Started and ended reverse osmosis water systems and completed water quality monitoring tests.
- Explained dialysis procedures to patients and answered questions and concerns prior to starting dialysis.
- Performed routine quality control and safety checks on all equipment.
- Set-up equipment for dialysis and primed dialyzer in preparation for use.
- Followed directions when mixing dialysate and priming dialyzer with saline or heparinized solutions.
- Provided in-patient care for 4 dialysis patients simultaneously focusing on providing clean, safe and comfortable treatment environment.
- Set up and operated dialysis machines for patients receiving treatment for kidney failure.
- Recorded patient's pre-dialysis weight, vitals and any new medical conditions.
- Conducted equipment and safety checks on hemodialysis equipment and supplies.
- Safely transported, transferred, and positioned patients on chairs for treatment.
- Recorded client data on hemodialysis flow chart.
- Explained dialysis procedures and hemodialysis machine operation to patients prior to treatment to ease anxieties.
- Inventoried, ordered, and restocked equipment and supplies needed for hemodialysis treatment.
Reuse Technician
Modesto Kidney Center
Modesto, CA
08.2001 - 11.2002
- Kept supplies within appropriate levels to meet expected demands
- Identified leaks, worn parts, and malfunctions by regularly inspecting equipment
- Tracked activities meticulously to maintain compliant records of cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization activities
- Detected malfunctions and verified equipment operation by monitoring gauges
- Boosted efficiency by keeping work areas clean, tidy, and free of debris
- Helped team handle high-volume work by prioritizing tasks and organizing supplies
- Protected company and customer data by following information policies
- Collaborated with team members to meet daily demands and handle challenging projects
- Completed accurate work tasks by carefully reviewing every order
- Fixed problems with equipment using troubleshooting and repair abilities.
Waitress and Cook
PizzaHut
Merced, California
08.2000 - 12.2001
- Stored food in designated containers, rotated inventory to reduce spoilage, and noted purchasing needs for supervisor review.
- Maintained customer satisfaction with timely table check-ins to assess food and beverage needs.
- Used cash registers and credit card machines to cash out customers.
- Kept server areas clean and stocked to increase efficiency while working tables.
- Greeted new customers, discussed specials and took drink orders.
- Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals and walk-in business.
- Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
- Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
- Resolved guest and employee complaints to maintain complete customer satisfaction and workforce effectiveness.
- Checked identification for minimum age for sale of alcoholic beverages.
- Folded napkins and prepared silverware sets to provide adequate supply for host station.
- Stored food in designated containers and storage areas to increase shelf life, improve kitchen organization and provide easy access during busy peak service times.
- Supervised restocking of salad bar and buffet for lunch and dinner service.
Drink Specialist
Sno Biz
Merced, CA
05.1997 - 09.1998
- Prepared custom drink orders by accurately measuring and mixing house ingredients.
- Tracked bar stock levels and promptly replenished low materials to prevent shortages.
- Prepared garnishes by evenly slicing and pitting fruits.
- Created attractive bar displays by strategically arranging bottles and glasses.
- Quickly learned new skills and applied them to daily tasks, improving efficiency and productivity.
- Carried out day-day-day duties accurately and efficiently.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Performed duties in accordance with applicable standards, policies and regulatory guidelines to promote safe working environment.
- Maintained energy and enthusiasm in fast-paced environment.
- Offered friendly and efficient service to customers, handled challenging situations with ease.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Switchboard Operator
Merced College Business And Community Education
Merced, CA
08.1997 - 05.1998
- Connected callers with appropriate professional, department or business.
- Directed incoming calls to internal personnel and departments, routing to best-qualified department.
- Performed clerical work such as sorting mail, restocking supplies and typing documents.
- Documented messages and forwarded to correct individual.
- Created and maintained company phone directory with current extensions and staff information.
- Responded to customer inquiries with patience and positivity to establish excellent first impression.
- Operated switchboard and routed incoming calls to appropriate departments.
- Monitored automated systems for placing collect calls and intervened for callers needing assistance.
Education
Health Club - All Pre-med Student Material
Merced College
Merced, CA08.2019
High School Diploma - General ED
Faith Home Christian School
Modesto, CA06.1999
None - Nursing
Merced College
Merced, CA12.2021
Skills
- Infection Control Measures
- Disease Prevention
- Blood Sample Collection
- Maintaining Dialysis Equipment
- Safety Protocols
- Compliance with Regulatory Guidelines
- Machine Operations
- Regulatory Standards
- Sterilization Monitoring
- Decontamination and Sanitation
- Team Collaboration
- Patient Data Management Systems
- Biohazardous Waste Disposal
- Medical Condition Monitoring
- Operational Standards
- Medical Histories and Vital Statistics
- Emergency Situations
- Hemodialysis Care
- Patient Care Technician (PCT)
- OSHA Regulations
- Interpersonal Communication Skills
- Efficiency Improvement
- Administrative Duties
- Team Player
- Conflict and Complaint Resolution
- Food and Beverage Service
- Cool Under Pressure
- Accuracy and Efficiency
- Communications Strategies
- Social Perceptiveness
- Compliance Regulations
- Serving Customer Needs
- Food Preparation and Safety
Certification
- CCHT - Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
- CPR-BLS Current
- Certified Preceptor, Davita - 2010-2019
- Licensed PCT III - Current
- Experienced Cannulator 2006-Current
- Safety Leader 2016-2019
- Academy and Graduate Academy Training and certificates - Davita
Timeline
Home Health Aide
Loryal
09.2023 - Current
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Satellite Healthcare
06.2023 - 08.2024
Direct Support Professional Caregiver
Adjoin
04.2023 - 09.2023
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
US Renal Care
09.2021 - 07.2022
In Home Health Care Aid
Landy Lamerson
06.2021 - 09.2021
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Satellite Healthcare
04.2019 - 05.2021
Patient Relations Liaison
Emanuel Medical Center/Davita
01.2011 - 08.2013
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Davita
04.2008 - 04.2019
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
Parkway Kidney Center
11.2002 - 04.2008
Reuse Technician
Modesto Kidney Center
08.2001 - 11.2002
Waitress and Cook
PizzaHut
08.2000 - 12.2001
Switchboard Operator
Merced College Business And Community Education
08.1997 - 05.1998
Drink Specialist
Sno Biz
05.1997 - 09.1998
Health Club - All Pre-med Student Material
Merced College
High School Diploma - General ED
Faith Home Christian School
None - Nursing
Merced College