Melissa Podkowa
West Seneca
Summary
Experienced support professional prepared for this role, bringing strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results. Skilled in providing personalized care, communication, and problem-solving. Known for flexibility and reliability, adapting to changing needs seamlessly. Proven ability to foster positive, supportive environment.
Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Hardworking and passionate job seeker with strong organizational skills eager to secure entry-level position. Ready to help team achieve company goals.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Direct Support Professional
OPWDD
West Seneca, NY
12.2024 - Current
- Provided direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities in daily living activities.
- Assisted clients in building social skills and fostering independence through structured activities.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Implemented safety protocols to maintain a secure environment for clients during activities and outings.
- Facilitated communication between clients, families, and service providers to ensure comprehensive care.
- Monitored client progress and documented behavioral changes in accordance with OPWDD guidelines.
- Facilitated social outings and community integration activities, promoting inclusion and positive experiences for clients.
HHA
Heart to Home
Buffalo, NY
03.2021 - 01.2025
- Provided compassionate personal care to clients, ensuring dignity and respect in daily activities.
- Assisted with medication management, promoting adherence and safety in client health routines.
- Documented client progress and changes in condition, facilitating effective communication with healthcare teams.
- Developed personalized care plans based on individual needs, enhancing overall quality of life for clients.
- Coordinated transportation for clients to medical appointments, ensuring accessibility to essential services.
- Monitored vital signs and reported abnormalities, contributing to timely medical interventions when necessary.
Phlebotomist
CSL Plasma
Cheektowaga, NY
09.2020 - 03.2021
- Collected blood samples efficiently using venipuncture and capillary techniques.
- Ensured compliance with safety standards and infection control protocols during procedures.
- Educated donors on blood donation processes, fostering a positive donor experience.
- Managed donor records accurately, maintaining confidentiality and data integrity.
- Implemented quality assurance measures to maintain high standards of blood collection services.
PCA
Kaleida Health
Buffalo, NY
03.2011 - 02.2020
- Assisted patients with daily activities, ensuring comfort and safety during care procedures.
- Monitored vital signs, reporting changes to nursing staff promptly to facilitate timely interventions.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of patient areas, contributing to a safe healthcare environment.
- Supported medical staff in delivering quality patient care through effective communication and teamwork.
- Documented patient interactions accurately, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and improving care continuity.
- Implemented best practices for infection control, enhancing overall patient health and wellbeing.
- Answered patient assistance calls, assessed needs, and offered qualified support.
- Facilitated meal planning, preparation, feeding assistance as needed while adhering to specific dietary restrictions or requirements.
- Obtained patient vital signs and reported results to staff nurse or physician, noting changes from prior measurements.
- Managed challenging behaviors in dementia patients using de-escalation techniques, creating a calm atmosphere within the care setting.
Education
GED -
West Seneca East High
West Seneca, NYNo Degree - Home Health Aide
American Caregivers Ass
OnlineSkills
- Time management
- First aid and safety
- Behavior redirection
- Client support
- Behavioral management
- Compassionate caregiving
- Appointment scheduling
- Patient care
- Client transportation
- Disability awareness
- Individualized support planning
- Progress documentation
Certification
- PCA - Personal Care Aide
Timeline
Direct Support Professional
OPWDD
12.2024 - Current
HHA
Heart to Home
03.2021 - 01.2025
Phlebotomist
CSL Plasma
09.2020 - 03.2021
PCA
Kaleida Health
03.2011 - 02.2020
GED -
West Seneca East High
No Degree - Home Health Aide
American Caregivers Ass