Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Kristin Howard

Lockport

Summary

Dynamic Certified Surgical Technologist with extensive experience at Buffalo Plastic Surgery, excelling in pre- and post-surgical counts and maintaining high infection control standards. Recognized for exceptional professionalism and ethics, I effectively anticipate surgeons' needs, enhancing patient safety and optimizing surgical efficiency through proactive support and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Certified Surgical Technologist

Buffalo Plastic Surgery
02.2025 - Current
  • Collaborated closely with interdisciplinary teams for optimal patient care throughout the entire perioperative process.
  • Used sutures, staples, clips and other tools to close wounds.
  • Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by actively participating in department meetings and offering constructive feedback on surgical processes.
  • Supported surgeons during cosmetic surgeries, gynecological and general appointments.

CST

Catholic Health Ambulatory Surgery Center
06.2023 - 02.2025
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Ensured proper handling of specimens during surgeries, aiding in accurate diagnostic results for patients.
  • Evaluated procedure needs and set up equipment, tools, supplies, and instruments.
  • Mentored junior staff members on proper techniques and best practices within the field of surgical technology, promoting professional growth among peers.
  • Performed accurate instrument counts, preventing potential surgical complications due to retained items.
  • Created unobstructive operative fields by using retractors, sponges, and suction and irrigating equipment.
  • Streamlined workflow by organizing instruments efficiently on the back table according to procedure requirements.
  • Delivered exemplary assistance and support to surgeons during general, gynecological, orthopedic, neurological, and plastic surgery procedures.

Certified Surgical Technologist

Eastern Niagara Ambulatory Surgery Center
05.2021 - 06.2023
  • Anticipated surgeons needs and handed instruments and supplies to surgeons during procedures.
  • Setup operating and surgery rooms by preparing equipment and supplies for upcoming procedures.
  • Demonstrated adaptability when faced with emergency situations or unexpected complications during surgeries, providing prompt support to surgical teams.
  • Expedited surgery room turnover times by swiftly preparing operating rooms for subsequent surgeries, maximizing efficiency within the department.
  • Assisted surgeons in complex procedures, ensuring efficient completion and minimized complications.
  • Reduced surgery time by effectively anticipating surgeon''s needs and providing timely assistance.
  • Enhanced patient safety by maintaining a sterile surgical environment and adhering to strict protocols.
  • Gathered and set up equipment, tools, and supplies and arrange instruments according to surgeons' preferences or instruction.
  • Prepared instruments for terminal sterilization and reset surgical suites for next procedure.
  • Achieved consistent performance evaluations through dedication to excellence in patient care, teamwork, and adherence to established protocols.
  • Maintained high infection control standards.
  • Cleaned and maintained operating equipment to keep resources in good working condition and ready for use.

Education

Associate of Applied Science - Surgical Technologies

Niagara County Community College
Sanborn, NY
05-2021

Science

Lockport High School
Lockport, NY
08-2000

Skills

  • Pre- and post-surgical counts
  • Safe sharps disposal
  • Surgical equipment operation
  • Professionalism and ethics

Timeline

Certified Surgical Technologist

Buffalo Plastic Surgery
02.2025 - Current

CST

Catholic Health Ambulatory Surgery Center
06.2023 - 02.2025

Certified Surgical Technologist

Eastern Niagara Ambulatory Surgery Center
05.2021 - 06.2023

Associate of Applied Science - Surgical Technologies

Niagara County Community College

Science

Lockport High School