Nicole Soden
Lafayette,IN
Summary
Experienced veterinary assistant, I have a willingness to learn and exert excellent communication skills. I aim to contribute to the team success and achieve positive results. I will jump in and help wherever there is need. Being a student, I look forward to being able to utilize my newly learned skills and soak up the knowledge of those around me. I'm ready to tackle new challenges with dedication and enthusiasm.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Veterinary Assistant
VCA Lafayette Animal Hospital
Lafayette, IN
01.2024 - Current
- Assisted veterinarians during examinations, treatment, and procedures, ensuring patient comfort and safety, while following safety protocols for handling animals.
- Monitored animal behavior and vital signs, reporting changes to the veterinary team promptly.
- Assisted in the administration of medications, vaccinations, and treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian.
- Provided compassionate care for animals during treatment and recovery from illnesses or injuries, documenting and reporting changes to the veterinary team promptly.
- Ensured accuracy of medical records by documenting all relevant information for each patient visit.
- Provided customer support to clients, answering questions and addressing concerns.
- Assisted reception by providing exceptional customer service while managing phone calls, checking out clients, booking future appointments and follow-ups, and managing ever-changing DVM schedules.
- Supported veterinary team in diagnostic imaging procedures such as radiographs and ultrasounds by positioning and restraining patients for accurate diagnoses.
- Reduced stress for patients by utilizing calming techniques, positive reinforcement, and gentle handling during exams, treatments and procedures, creating a positive, less fearful experience.
- Promoted preventive care services by educating clients on the importance of routine check-ups, monthly prevention, vaccinations, and dental cleanings.
- Increased effectiveness of pet owner communications by providing clear instructions for at-home care, medication administration, including post-surgical care and nutrition.
- Assisted in development of treatment plans recommended by DVM, keeping in mind needs and limitations of both owner and patient. Thoroughly explained each line item on treatment plan and need to perform so all involved had same understanding and goals for patient.
- Improved patient care with diligent follow-up calls to assess recovery of animals post-treatment. Left detailed communication logs of updates, comm tasking DVM if owner had any questions or concerns that required follow-up.
- While taking patient histories, took extensive medical records. Familiarized myself with client and patient. Observed animals for signs of distress or illness, so as to present the most accurate picture when reporting to DVM prior to exam.
- Restrained animals for examination and treatment. Fostered compassionate atmosphere for animals and pet owners, easing anxiety and building trust.
- Administered injections, oral medications and topically applied medications prescribed by DVM. Prepared and administered diets and feedings according to instructions.
- Helped nurses prep animals for surgical procedures.
- Cleaned, disinfected and maintained kennels to prevent diseases and control odors. Sterilized operating room and surgical equipment. Assembled and wrapped dental and surgical packs before processing in autoclave.
- Collected and processed samples for laboratory testing.
Bar Manager /Head Bartender/Restaurant Server
Black Sparrow Pub
Lafayette, IN
03.2008 - 11.2023
- Managed day-to-day operations ensuring efficient service and customer satisfaction.
- Pulled business out of residual Covid debt, back to profitable in 4 months.
- Developed and implemented training programs for bar staff to enhance skills and knowledge, including opening/closing shift duties, drink construction, work area maintenance, stocking expectations, proper shift flow, cleanliness standards & desired guest experience.
- Implemented per shift tip pooling system, fostering collaboration & teamwork
- Oversaw inventory management, optimizing stock levels and reducing waste.
- Created checklists for opening/closing shifts & cleaning duties.
- Nurtured lasting relationships with vendors & distributors.
- Curated constantly rotating draft beer, bottled beer & wine menus. Crafted new specialty cocktail menu each season.
- Used problem-solving to field customer complaints, coming to a resolution fit for all parties.
- Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff. Assisted kitchen manager in development of special menu items to offer seasonal options to guests.
- Kept facility compliant with health codes, sanitation requirements & license regulations.
- Addressed equipment malfunctions quickly by working closely with maintenance teams; ensured minimal downtime in bar operations.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to discuss performance goals, share feedback, and foster teamwork among employees.
- Reduced inaccuracies by carefully counting cash and keeping meticulous records of transactions. Worked closely with accountant.
- Recruited, interviewed, hired, trained, scheduled, monitored & disciplined waitstaff of 9, oversaw staff of 20.
- Created and implemented rules & regulations.
- Effectively managed payroll, timekeeping & paperwork for new hires & terminations.
- Successfully ran busiest shifts.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Veterinary Technology
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN05-2028
Associate of Arts - Communications
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN05-2007
Skills
- Client communication
- Patient restraint
- Animal safety
- Client education
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Patient discharge
- Patient flow management
- Multitasking
- Excellent communication
- Prescription filling
Timeline
Veterinary Assistant
VCA Lafayette Animal Hospital
01.2024 - Current
Bar Manager /Head Bartender/Restaurant Server
Black Sparrow Pub
03.2008 - 11.2023
Associate of Applied Science - Veterinary Technology
Purdue University
Associate of Arts - Communications
Purdue University