Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Languages
Work Preference
Timeline
Generic

Polly Cowan

Sparta,TN

Overview

46
46
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Caregiver

Amber Wallace
Lebanon, TN
12.2023 - Current
  • Assisted with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, dressing, meal preparation and medication reminders.
  • Ensured compliance with state regulations related to home healthcare services.
  • Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
  • Assisted with personal hygiene needs including toileting and incontinence care.
  • Reported concerns to nurse supervisor to promote optimal care.
  • Created safe and positive living situations for clients by communicating with family and other staff about concerns or challenges.
  • Partnered with registered nurses and physiotherapists to provide care to patients.
  • Monitored clients' activity levels and helped prevent sedentary behavior.
  • Helped clients get in and out of beds and wheelchairs.
  • Recorded client status progress and challenges in logbooks and reports.
  • Maintained detailed records of services performed on clients.
  • Obtained sources of entertainment for clients to provide full and enjoyable daily activities.
  • Maintained cleanliness of clients' environment by cleaning surfaces and washing clothes or dishes.
  • Consulted with client care team to continually update care plans.
  • Helped clients communicate with loved ones by typing written messages and relaying verbal messages.

Seamstress

Self Employed Services
Lebanon, TN.
09.2010 - Current
  • Developed patterns for garments based on sketches or existing samples provided by clients.
  • Adhered strictly to safety guidelines while operating machinery in order to avoid any accidents or injuries.
  • Ensured all products were completed accurately and efficiently within established timeframes.
  • Performed minor repairs such as replacing broken hooks and eyes or reinforcing weak areas in garments.
  • Selected appropriate thread colors that matched the fabric being used for each garment item.
  • Repaired tears, rips, holes and loose seams on a variety of clothing items.
  • Maintained cleanliness of the work area including tools, equipment and materials used.
  • Operated industrial sewing machines to construct garments from pre-cut pieces of fabric.
  • Measured and cut fabric for garments according to patterns or customer specifications.
  • Kept accurate records of production output and material costs associated with each job order.
  • Trimmed away excess threads after each stitching session was completed before starting another one.
  • Monitored sewing machines to ensure proper operation and troubleshoot malfunctions when necessary.
  • Sewed decorative embellishments onto clothing items such as beading, embroidery or sequins.
  • Altered existing garments by taking in seams, shortening lengths, replacing zippers and buttons.
  • Organized inventory of supplies such as needles, threads, buttons, zippers, ensuring adequate stock levels at all times.
  • Measured garments and assessed clothing on customers to determine proper fitting and necessary alterations.
  • Pinned altering folds or marked cloth at seam to indicate alterations in progress.
  • Used razor blades to carefully remove stitching to prepare garments for hemming and alterations.
  • Sewed outfits using serger, double needle, and walking foot machines.
  • Pressed, steamed and hung items to prepare alterations for pick-up.
  • Repaired or replaced pockets, zippers, snaps, buttons, and lining with sewing machines and hand stitching.
  • Monitored machines, diagnosed problems and performed basic corrections to keep equipment operational during shifts.
  • Monitored machine operations to detect defective stitching, breaks in thread or machine malfunctions.
  • Checked fabric for markings and pins to sew together correctly.
  • Placed thread spools on spindles, inserted bobbins and threaded ends through machine guides.
  • Aligned items under needles using machine guides, clamps and templates.

Elderly Caregiver

Amada Senior Care
Murfreesboro, TN
03.2019 - 01.2020

Store Manager

John Trusa
Lebanon , TN
10.2011 - 07.2018
  • Identified opportunities for cost savings through waste reduction initiatives.
  • Conducted daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures and cash handling.
  • Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner.
  • Ensured compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
  • Recruited, trained and supervised new employees.
  • Created weekly work schedules for store personnel.
  • Developed relationships with suppliers to negotiate better prices.
  • Updated POS system with new products and promotional offers.
  • Implemented efficient systems for tracking stock movement.
  • Assessed operational efficiency of the store's departments.
  • Monitored inventory levels and placed orders to restock shelves.
  • Planned special promotions or discounts based on market trends.
  • Balanced sales, reconciled cash and made bank deposits to facilitate opening and closing duties.
  • Reviewed customer feedback to make operational improvements and promote satisfaction.
  • Monitored employee performance and identified performance gaps for corrective action.
  • Built customer confidence by actively listening to concerns and complaints and quickly resolving issues.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction and store operations through relationship building and daily problem-solving.
  • Preserved product quality by maintaining stockrooms and disposing of damaged items.
  • Generated repeat business by responding to customer concerns with friendly and knowledgeable service.
  • Identified operational issues and implemented appropriate process improvements to promote workplace safety and productivity.
  • Exceeded team goals and resolved issues by sharing and implementing customer service initiatives.
  • Updated and maintained store signage and displays.
  • Showcased and built visually appealing displays and signs to encourage customers to buy specific products.
  • Completed thorough opening, closing, and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
  • Trained and mentored associates to teach daily tasks and procedures.

Pants and Shirt Presser & Alterations

Hour-O- Matic
Cookeville, TN.
09.2007 - 08.2009
  • Assisted in sorting clothes according to fabric type for proper pressing techniques.
  • Operated a variety of machines including steamers, irons, and presses to press pants and shirts.
  • Operated industrial sewing machines to make repairs on garments where necessary due to damages caused during pressing process.
  • Inspected pressed items for quality assurance purposes before delivery to customers.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Examined garments for stains, tears, or other imperfections prior to pressing.
  • Transferred finished garments from the presser area onto racks for further inspection by supervisors.
  • Maintained an inventory of supplies needed for pressing operations such as starch, sizing and hangers.
  • Followed established safety procedures when operating machinery in accordance with company policies.
  • Cleaned presses after each use by removing lint from rollers using a brush or vacuum cleaner.
  • Reported any malfunctioning equipment immediately to maintenance personnel for repair or replacement.
  • Organized workplace by keeping it clean and tidy at all times to ensure safe working environment.
  • Ensured that all clothing items were pressed properly without any damage or distortion in shape or size.

Associate Cashier

Family Dollar
Sparta , TN
06.2003 - 05.2006
  • Followed up with customers after purchases to ensure satisfaction.
  • Stocked shelves with merchandise when needed.
  • Kept current on product information and new arrivals.
  • Balanced the register at the end of each shift.
  • Verified prices on items using price lists or scanners.
  • Checked expiration dates on products before selling them to customers.
  • Greeted customers in a friendly and professional manner.
  • Performed opening and closing duties such as counting money, reconciling tills.
  • Adhered to all safety regulations for handling money and other items.
  • Provided assistance with bagging items for customers who requested it.
  • Processed payments by accepting cash, credit cards, and checks.
  • Answered customer questions regarding store policies and services.
  • Provided exceptional customer service while maintaining a positive attitude.
  • Monitored stock levels and informed supervisor when additional supplies were needed.
  • Reported any discrepancies in inventory levels or pricing issues to supervisor.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of store layout to help customers locate desired items.
  • Counted money in cash drawers at the beginning of shifts to ensure that amounts are correct and that there is adequate change.
  • Maintained cleanliness of checkout areas throughout shift.
  • Assisted customers with inquiries about products and services.
  • Organized goods on shelves according to pre-determined layouts.
  • Handled returns, refunds, or exchanges as necessary per company policy.
  • Promoted specific items to drive sales and achieve add-on purchases.
  • Worked closely with front-end staff to assist customers.
  • Trained new team members in cash register operation, stock procedures, and customer services.
  • Scanned customer purchases and worked to streamline transactions.
  • Inspected store products for damage and obtained item replacements for customers.
  • Completed daily recovery tasks to keep areas clean and neat for maximum productivity.
  • Swept and mopped front end during shifts to maintain professional appearance.
  • Helped supervisor control customer flow and backed-up lines by running registers during busy periods.
  • Handled merchandising and restocking needs for multiple checkout lanes.
  • Assisted with customer requests and answered questions to improve satisfaction.
  • Returned carts and baskets to entryways to keep store spaces and aisles neat.
  • Backed up cashiers ringing up large number of customers by bagging products.
  • Interacted politely with customers to promote quality service during checkout.
  • Resolved customer complaints regarding sales and service.
  • Issued receipts, change and refunds to customers to promote smooth operations.
  • Promoted store cleanliness by keeping track of trash can levels and emptying when full.
  • Maintained financial records by counting cash and recording tips at end of shift.
  • Directed trash removal and sanitation procedures to keep aisles and register area organized.
  • Verified customer age requirement for alcohol or tobacco purchases.
  • Welcomed customers, offering assistance to help find store items.
  • Greeted customers promptly and responded to questions.
  • Processed customer payments quickly and returned exact change and receipts.
  • Maintained work area and kept cash drawer organized.
  • Counted and balanced cashier drawers.
  • Answered phone calls to assist customers with questions and orders.
  • Processed returned merchandise by strictly following store return and exchange procedures.
  • Checked personal identifications during alcohol and tobacco sales.
  • Built and maintained productive relationships with employees.
  • Offered customers carry-out service at completion of transaction.
  • Maintained clean and orderly checkout areas by sanitizing register belts, emptying trash cans and organizing candy racks.
  • Established or identified prices of goods and services and tabulated bills with optical price scanners and cash registers.
  • Scanned items and checked pricing on cash register for accuracy.
  • Answered customers' questions and provided information on store procedures or policies.
  • Trained and mentored new cashiers to maximize performance with skilled, efficient and knowledgeable team members.
  • Processed efficient and accurate cash, check, debit and credit card payments using Point-of-Sale system.
  • Boosted customer satisfaction levels by going extra mile to personalize service for each customer.
  • Tracked company inventories, moved excess stock, and arranged products to improve sales.
  • Kept check-out areas clean, organized and well-stocked to maintain attractive store.

Family Caregiver

Liza Cowan
Albany, KY
07.2004 - 12.2004
  • Provided respite care so primary caregivers could take breaks from their duties.
  • Assisted family member with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Monitored vital signs of patient when necessary and reported changes to the appropriate personnel.
  • Maintained a safe environment for the elderly by removing tripping hazards from living areas.
  • Responded quickly to any emergency situations that arose during caregiving sessions.
  • Organized medications for family members and administered them according to directions.
  • Facilitated communication between families and healthcare providers regarding various issues.
  • Performed light housekeeping tasks such as laundry, vacuuming, dusting, and changing bed linens.
  • Helped develop treatment plans in collaboration with physicians and other medical staff.
  • Provided companionship to family members by engaging in conversation, playing games, or reading books.
  • Assisted with personal hygiene needs including toileting and incontinence care.
  • Assisted with meal planning to meet nutritional plans.
  • Drove clients to shop for groceries, attend doctor appointments and run errands.
  • Reported concerns to nurse supervisor to promote optimal care.
  • Created safe and positive living situations for clients by communicating with family and other staff about concerns or challenges.
  • Supported bathing, dressing and personal care needs.
  • Observed patients for changes in physical, emotional, mental or behavioral condition and injuries.
  • Maintained clean and well-organized environment for client happiness and safety.
  • Laundered clothing and bedding to prevent infection.
  • Followed safe lifting and transferring techniques to transport residents.
  • Followed care plan and directions to administer medications.
  • Monitored vital signs and medication use, documenting variances, and concerning responses.
  • Monitored health and well-being of clients and reported significant health changes.
  • Assisted clients with maintaining good personal hygiene.
  • Maintained cleanliness of clients' environment by cleaning surfaces and washing clothes or dishes.

CNA

Pickett Care And Rehabilitation
Byrdstown, TN
08.1985 - 10.1986
  • Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
  • Answered patient call lights promptly and responded to requests appropriately.
  • Transported residents within the facility as needed.
  • Observed patients for any physical or emotional changes, reported findings to medical staff immediately.
  • Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
  • Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.
  • Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations regarding confidentiality of information.
  • Educated patients on self-care techniques that would help them maintain their independence.
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Maintained a clean, safe environment for the patient by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
  • Participated in educational programs designed to improve knowledge of health care practices.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to ensure quality patient care was delivered at all times.
  • Monitored food intake and output as directed by nursing staff.
  • Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
  • Assisted residents with bathing and dressing to promote personal hygiene.
  • Answered signal lights, bells or intercom systems to determine resident needs.
  • Helped residents walk with or without self-help devices.
  • Rendered hands-on nursing care under direct RN supervision, adhering to medical center policies and procedures.
  • Observed and reported unusual symptoms and changes to charge nurse.
  • Used mobility devices to transport patients.
  • Assisted patients with shaving, bathing and oral hygiene to promote healthy habits and overall wellness.
  • Fostered relationships with patients, caregivers and healthcare teams to achieve individual care plan targets.
  • Looked for physical, emotional, and symptomatic changes in patient condition and obtained necessary care for medical concerns.
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.
  • Supported daily living activities by serving meals, feeding, ambulating and turning over and positioning patients.
  • Safeguarded patient privacy with strict adherence to HIPAA protocols.
  • Provided physical support to assist patients with bathing, dressing and toileting.
  • Supplied, collected and emptied patient bedpans on frequent basis.
  • Exercised comatose and paralyzed patients to reduce delirium and improve physical function.
  • Communicated with patients to determine feelings, need for assistance or social and emotional support.

Waitress

Dale Hollow Club
Byrdstown, TN.
10.1983 - 07.1984
  • Provided excellent customer service by addressing any complaints or concerns promptly.
  • Answered questions about menu items, ingredients, and pricing.
  • Greeted customers and provided menus.
  • Processed payments accurately using cash registers or POS systems.
  • Prepared checks accurately and processed payments promptly.
  • Developed positive relationships with regular customers through friendly conversation.
  • Organized take-out orders efficiently according to customer requests.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of wine selection, pairings, vintages.
  • Bussed tables as needed during peak hours.
  • Assisted in seating guests at tables or booths.
  • Enforced safety guidelines for employees and patrons of the restaurant.
  • Served alcoholic beverages responsibly in accordance with state laws.
  • Took orders for food and drinks and delivered them to guests.
  • Communicated daily specials to customers.
  • Performed basic math calculations when computing bills for customers' meals.
  • Checked back with customers throughout meal service to ensure satisfaction.
  • Provided accurate change for cash transactions using a cash register system.
  • Maintained a clean work station by restocking supplies, wiping down counters.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss new menu items or changes in policy.
  • Replenished beverages when necessary.
  • Assisted other wait staff members in times of heavy customer traffic.
  • Presented food and beverages to guests at tables.
  • Rolled silverware and set up food stations and dining areas to prepare for next shift or large parties.

Seamstress

Sutton Shirt Factory
Albany, KY
06.1982 - 04.1983
  • Adhered strictly to safety guidelines while operating machinery in order to avoid any accidents or injuries.
  • Ensured all products were completed accurately and efficiently within established timeframes.
  • Selected appropriate thread colors that matched the fabric being used for each garment item.
  • Worked with a team of tailors to complete orders in an efficient manner.
  • Trimmed away excess threads after each stitching session was completed before starting another one.
  • Monitored sewing machines to ensure proper operation and troubleshoot malfunctions when necessary.
  • Used razor blades to carefully remove stitching to prepare garments for hemming and alterations.
  • Sewed outfits using serger, double needle, and walking foot machines.
  • Read and interpreted work order to uphold specific guidelines and produce high-quality pieces.
  • Monitored machines, diagnosed problems and performed basic corrections to keep equipment operational during shifts.
  • Monitored machine operations to detect defective stitching, breaks in thread or machine malfunctions.
  • Matched cloth pieces in correct sequences prior to sewing and verified correct dye lots and patterns.
  • Folded or stretched edges or lengths of items while sewing to facilitate forming specified sections.
  • Placed thread spools on spindles, inserted bobbins and threaded ends through machine guides.
  • Aligned items under needles using machine guides, clamps and templates.
  • Contacted maintenance team for machine repairs or mechanical issues.

Student

CETA Summer Youth work Program
Byrdstown, TN
06.1978 - 07.1978
  • Participated in a variety of campus events, such as career fairs, lectures, and workshops.
  • Provided guidance and support to fellow students on academic issues.
  • Demonstrated excellent organizational skills while managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Achieved academic honors and awards, recognizing exceptional performance.
  • Volunteered for community service projects, applying academic knowledge in real-world scenarios.
  • Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.

Education

Associate of Arts -

Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, KY
05-1996

Skills

  • Behavioral Management
  • Patient assistance
  • Mobility support
  • Medication Administration
  • Case Management
  • Client documentation
  • Medication Management
  • Recreational Activities
  • Emotional Support
  • Community activities
  • Compassionate Care
  • Behavior redirection
  • Personal Hygiene Assistance
  • Feeding Assistance
  • First aid and safety
  • Basic Housekeeping
  • Time Management
  • Meal Preparation
  • Relationship Building
  • Data Confidentiality
  • Client safety and first aid
  • Progress Documentation
  • Safe Patient Transportation
  • Patient Advocacy
  • Documentation And Reporting
  • Compassionate Caregiving
  • Dementia Care and Alzheimer's

Affiliations

  • I love owning my 28 chickens,1 pair of miniature quails,dog,cat, and 2 bee hives. I grow my owen spices to cook with. I like keeping busy, and I have 2 granddaughters that live with me. I enjoy teaching them how to be self reliance.
  • Studying to be Herbalist Practitioner.
  • I like swimming,Kayaking ,dancing, Gardening, crafts and seamstress work.
  • I also Have done Alterations for more than 35 years.(earn the name Miracle worker when it comes to repairing clothing.
  • The best of all is getting together with my 10 younger siblings (9 girls and 2 boys) on the farm we have the best time and we eat the whole time.

Accomplishments

  • when i opened my alteration in Lebanon years I used my middle name and my oldest daughters middle name Onah Resha's Alterations. I used the O as a gold wedding ring with a threaded needle threw the ring.

Languages

English
Elementary
some Spanish
Limited

Work Preference

Work Type

Full Time

Work Location

On-SiteRemote

Important To Me

Career advancementWork-life balanceFlexible work hoursHealthcare benefitsWork from home option401k matchCompany Culture

Timeline

Senior Caregiver

Amber Wallace
12.2023 - Current

Elderly Caregiver

Amada Senior Care
03.2019 - 01.2020

Store Manager

John Trusa
10.2011 - 07.2018

Seamstress

Self Employed Services
09.2010 - Current

Pants and Shirt Presser & Alterations

Hour-O- Matic
09.2007 - 08.2009

Family Caregiver

Liza Cowan
07.2004 - 12.2004

Associate Cashier

Family Dollar
06.2003 - 05.2006

CNA

Pickett Care And Rehabilitation
08.1985 - 10.1986

Waitress

Dale Hollow Club
10.1983 - 07.1984

Seamstress

Sutton Shirt Factory
06.1982 - 04.1983

Student

CETA Summer Youth work Program
06.1978 - 07.1978

Associate of Arts -

Lindsey Wilson College
Polly Cowan