Laura Garza
San Antonio,TEXAS
Summary
Since I began working at a plasma center, I have developed a strong appreciation for the responsibility that comes with providing high-quality patient care. After graduating as a Phlebotomist from Laredo Community College, I had the opportunity to expand my experience by working in a dialysis clinic. These experiences have strengthened my ability to remain calm, focused, and effective in extremely difficult and stressful situations.
I am a patient-focused and empathetic healthcare professional with extensive knowledge of venipuncture procedures and a strong belief in the importance of teamwork, communication, and professionalism. I take pride in being dependable, organized, and committed to providing excellent service.
Although my experience has primarily been in healthcare, I am eager to expand my skills and explore opportunities in other areas. I am a fast learner who adapts quickly to new environments, policies, procedures, and responsibilities. I am willing to learn new skills and take on challenges outside of my comfort zone because I want to discover what I am capable of achieving.
I am open-minded and excited about the possibility of working in different industries and environments. I believe my healthcare experience has taught me valuable skills—including communication, attention to detail, responsibility, adaptability, teamwork, and working effectively under pressure—that can transfer to many different roles. I am ready to learn, grow, and keep my possibilities open as I take the next step in my career.
Overview
1
1
Certification
5
5
years of post-secondary education
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN - CCHT
U.S Renal Care
San Antonio, TX
09.2018 - 05.2023
- Safely initiate and terminate dialysis treatments per center protocol, and within scope of practice and as allowed by state regulations.
- Monitor patients during dialysis treatments.
- Prepare machines for hemodialysis treatments.
- Obtain pre and post treatment weights of patients per protocols.
- Cleaned, disinfected, and rinsed dialysis machines to ensure compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
- Mix acids and bicarbonate according to protocol.
- Conducted daily water testing on dialysis machines to maintain quality and safety protocols.
- Collected blood samples for laboratory analysis to fulfill physician orders.
- Perform duties at all times under the supervision of a Charge Nurse and within limitations established by and in accordance with company policy and procedures, applicable state and federal laws and regulations.
- Attended staff meetings to discuss team updates and improvements. as required. Attend in-service and continuing education offerings in compliance with company policy and procedure.
Renal Dialysis Technician
University health
Laredo, TX
12.2024 - 04.2026
- Prepared hemodialysis machines in University Health dialysis unit
- Monitored vital signs during dialysis and adjusted fluid removal rates based on patient conditions.
- Primed bloodlines and dialyzers before patient treatments
- Eased patients' anxiety by explaining dialysis procedures and dialysis machine operations.
- Ensured equipment cleanliness and safety by following University Health infection control protocols during disinfection.
- Followed infection control measures when cleaning and attaching hemodialysis machine to access sites like fistulas, catheters, and grafts.
- Evaluated access sites for infection or other complications prior to initiating treatment.
- Documented treatment details in patient charts and unit records
- Maintained accurate records of patients' medical history and treatment plans in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
- Calibrated dialysate solution according to prescribed formula for each individual patient's needs.
- Initiated and terminated reverse osmosis water system and performed water quality monitoring tests prior to dialysis initiation.
- Attached dialyzer and tubing to dialysis machines for use in hemodialysis treatment.
- Assessed machine alarms and resolved basic technical issues
- Performed daily maintenance on dialysis machines, such as cleaning and sterilization.
- Performed routine maintenance on dialysis equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
- Inspected equipment and conducted safety checks on equipment and instruments to maintain high-quality control standards.
- Ensured all safety protocols were followed while performing duties in the dialysis unit.
- Identified and reported any adverse reactions or changes in patient condition to the supervising nurse.
- Provided emotional support for patients dealing with chronic illness or end-stage renal disease.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives within the facility's dialysis unit.
- Supported water treatment system checks to ensure compliance with safety standards. system checks and supply restocking
- Observed patient reactions and monitored machine performance continuously during dialysis treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
CERTIFIED CLINICAL HEMODIALYSIS TECHNICIAN
U.S Renal Care
San Antonio, TX
06.2015 - 05.2018
- Delivered exceptional customer service by promptly addressing patient needs and concerns
- Cannulates dialysis accesses, initiates treatments, monitors patient and machine, terminates treatment per policy and procedures
- Assisted with various tasks in the clinical setting, adhere to all infection control procedures and understands the consequences associated with failing to follow those procedures
- Prepares dialyzer according to procedure during prime and set up; removes dialyzer at end of treatment, preparing it for reuse procedures per MD orders
- Utilized personal protective equipment to ensure safety while providing patient care and maintained a hygienic environment for patient safety).
- Follow all clean/dirty procedures in order to eliminate cross-contamination
- Disinfect machines, station area, and chairs after each patient treatment
- Ensured cleanliness and organization of workspaces to promote safety and efficiency
- Administers medication such as normal saline, heparin, and lidocaine per MD orders under the direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse, and per scope of practice
- Performs patient data collection and documentation of patient information prior to, during, and post dialysis, per scope of practice
- Provides detailed and thorough documentation on treatment sheets and medical records, both manual and electronic
- Conveyed critical patient information to team members clearly and accurately to support coordinated care
- Reinforced patient and caregiver education to enhance understanding of disease management and treatment protocols
- Participates in initial/annual clinical and technical competencies evaluations as appropriate
- Conducted safety checks before initiating treatment to maintain patient safety.
- Provides reinforcement of education given to patients and their caregivers to increase their understanding of the disease and its treatment
- Administers oxygen as necessary by cannula or mask under direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse or MD orders, per scope of practice
- Obtains blood samples and culture specimens as ordered and performs routine tests
- Address emergencies quickly and effectively to ensure patient safety and alarms appropriately
- Develops and/or participates in in-service education programs; attends and participates in staff meetings
CAREGIVER
Naty's Learning Center
Laredo, TX
11.2012 - 08.2014
- Developed rapport with patients to create a safe and trusting environment for care
- Maintained clean, safe, and organized environment to ensure patient comfort and safety
- Supervised children's activities to ensure safety during play, rest, and transitions.
- Assisted children with meals, hygiene, and restroom needs.
- Interacted one-on-one with children to build trusting relationships and promote emotional well-being.
- Planned and facilitated recreational activities, including games and puzzles, for children.
- Communicated with children in a developmentally appropriate way.
- Communicated openly with children's parents about daily activities and behaviors
- Conducted regular observations to identify potential health issues in behavior or physical condition and reported findings to the supervisor.
Education
Phlebotomy
Laredo Community College
Laredo, TX 01.2014 - 01.2015
High School Diploma -
J.W. Nixon High School
Laredo, TX 08.2001 - 05.2005
Skills
- Caregiving
- Bilingual (Spanish)
- Active listening
- Patient
- Empathetic
- Understanding
- Reliable
- Organized
- Punctual
- Self motivated
- Independent
- Team player
Certification
CCHT, CPR / First Aid
Timeline
Renal Dialysis Technician
University health
12.2024 - 04.2026
PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN - CCHT
U.S Renal Care
09.2018 - 05.2023
CERTIFIED CLINICAL HEMODIALYSIS TECHNICIAN
U.S Renal Care
06.2015 - 05.2018
Phlebotomy
Laredo Community College
01.2014 - 01.2015
CAREGIVER
Naty's Learning Center
11.2012 - 08.2014
High School Diploma -
J.W. Nixon High School
08.2001 - 05.2005