Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Internships
Software
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
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Vanessa Richards

Norwalk,CT

Summary

Detail-oriented and dependable Medical Laboratory Science new graduate with hands on clinical experience in hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and blood bank within a high volume hospital setting. Skilled in laboratory instrumentation, quality control, and accurate result reporting while adhering to CLIA and CAP standards. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, work efficiently in fast-paced environments, and contribute to timely, high-quality patient care.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience

Work History

Coordinator's Assistant

Primary Home Care LLC
Stratford, CT
12.2018 - Current
  • Coordinated daily administrative operations, including staff office space, phone systems, and billing processes to support efficient workflow
  • Maintained accurate records and documentation using Microsoft Word, Excel, and healthcare management systems
  • Managed incoming and outgoing mail, ensuring proper distribution and timely communication across departments
  • Organized and maintained both electronic and paper filing systems, improving accessibility and record accuracy
  • Monitored office equipment and supply inventory, placing orders and scheduling maintenance or repairs as needed
  • Assisted with scheduling and coordination of staff to support patient care services
  • Handled sensitive information with a high level of confidentiality and professionalism
  • Supported administrative functions to ensure smooth day-to-day operations

Clinical/Medical Assistant

Planned Parenthood Of Southern New England
Waterbury, CT
12.2018 - 07.2019
  • Provided patient-centered care in a fast-paced clinical setting, supporting a team of 2 clinicians and 3 medical assistants while managing up to 40 patients per shift
  • Performed phlebotomy (venipuncture) and specimen collection for STD screening, HIV testing, and routine lab work
  • Assisted providers with reproductive health services, including birth control counseling, Pap smears, and PrEP services for HIV prevention
  • Processed and prepared specimens for laboratory analysis, ensuring proper labeling, handling, and transport to maintain specimen integrity
  • Entered and verified lab orders in the electronic medical record (EMR) system, ensuring accuracy and timely processing
  • Communicated effectively with patients by answering calls and emails, providing education on services, test results, and follow-up care
  • Maintained patient confidentiality and adhered to HIPAA guidelines at all times
  • Contributed to accurate diagnoses by supporting laboratory workflows and ensuring timely specimen processing
  • Managed multiple responsibilities simultaneously, including patient intake, documentation, and coordination of care
  • Promoted a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, enhancing patient satisfaction and trust

Education

Bachelor of Science - Medical Laboratory Science

University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT
05.2026

Bachelor of Science - Public Health

Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT
12.2018

Skills

  • Clinical Laboratory Testing (Chemistry, Hematology, Microbiology)
  • Blood Bank & Immunohematology Procedures (Type & Screen, Crossmatch)
  • Phlebotomy & Blood Specimen Collection (Venipuncture)
  • Quality Control & Quality Assurance (QC/QA) – Westgard Rules, CLIA/CAP Awareness
  • Specimen Collection, Preparation & Handling (Pre-analytical Accuracy)
  • Automated Analyzer Operation (Chemistry & Hematology Systems – eg, Atellica, Sysmex)
  • Data Interpretation & Critical Thinking in Clinical Results
  • Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) & EMR Documentation (Result Verification)
  • Clinical Microscopy & Urinalysis Analysis
  • Coagulation Studies (PT, aPTT) & Hematology Analysis
  • Laboratory Safety & Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) Compliance
  • Attention to Detail & High-Level Accuracy
  • Communication & Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration
  • Reagent Preparation, Inventory & Lab Supply Management
  • Equipment Calibration, Maintenance & Troubleshooting
  • Adaptability & Multitasking in High-Volume Clinical Settings

Internships

Clinical Laboratory Scientist Intern – Stamford Hospital, CT: Sep 2025 - Apr 2026 

Hematology / Coagulation, Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology, and Blood Bank (Immunohematology)

  • Completed comprehensive clinical rotations in Hematology, Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology, and Blood Bank (7 weeks each) in a high volume hospital laboratory
  • Performed routine and complex testing while adhering to CLIA, CAP, and hospital regulatory standards
  • Operated automated analyzers, performed maintenance/calibration, and troubleshot instrument flags, QC failures, and analyzer errors to ensure accurate results
  • Recognized and promptly reported critical values and prioritized STAT specimens to support timely patient care
  • Identified and rejected compromised specimens (e.g., hemolysis, clotting, mislabeling) to maintain result integrity
  • Utilized LIS/EMR systems for result entry, verification, and documentation while maintaining strict patient confidentiality
  • Collaborated with healthcare teams to ensure accurate and timely laboratory results for patient care decisions
  • Performed CBC analysis, differentials, and peripheral smear review using Sysmex
  • Conducted coagulation testing (PT, aPTT) using ACL 750/500 systems
  • Performed manual cell counts using a hemocytometer
  • Performed Kleihauer-Betke (KB) testing for detection of fetal-maternal hemorrhage
  • Evaluated abnormal cell morphology and verified flagged results with manual differentials
  • Conducted testing on Abbott instruments (c16000, c8000, 12000SR) with automated track system
  • Performed metabolic panels, enzyme testing, and routine chemistry assays
  • Completed ionized calcium calibration checks and ensured analyzer accuracy
  • Reviewed QC data, validated results, and reported critical values
  • Processed and analyzed specimens using Cepheid (molecular testing), MicroScan (ID/AST), and MALDI-TOF
  • Performed Gram stains, culture plating, organism identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing
  • Maintained aseptic technique and proper incubation/handling procedures
  • Performed ABO/Rh typing, antibody screening, and crossmatching using IH (Immucor system)
  • Performed fetal-maternal hemorrhage screening (rosette test)
  • Conducted Direct Antiglobulin Testing (DAT) and antigen typing
  • Performed elution procedures to identify antibodies bound to red blood cells
  • Assisted with antibody identification panels and transfusion reaction workups
  • Observed safe blood product release by verifying compatibility and following transfusion protocols

Clinical Research Assistant Intern – Planned Parenthood Southern New England | May 2018 - Dec 2018 

  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to support clinical research studies, ensuring timely completion of project milestones and deliverables
  • Assisted in monitoring human subject safety and ensured compliance with ethical standards and federal regulations (IRB, informed consent)
  • Reviewed participant eligibility criteria and verified consent documentation to maintain study accuracy and protocol adherence
  • Maintained and organized regulatory binders and study documentation, ensuring data integrity and audit readiness
  • Supported patient enrollment and screening processes, contributing to accurate data collection and study outcomes
  • Communicated with research staff and participants to facilitate smooth study operations and follow-up
  • Demonstrated strong attention to detail while handling sensitive patient data in compliance with confidentiality standards

Software

Laboratory Information Systems (LIS)

Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

Instrument Software Interfaces

Middleware Systems

Scheduling & Communication Platforms

Microsoft Office

Accomplishments

  • Promoted from Clinic Research Intern to Clinic Research Associate, in less than 12-months
  • Earned “Certification of Appreciation” award in 2020.
  • Recognized for outstanding customer service.
  • University of Bridgeport Presidents' list: Fall 2020, Fall 2023, Spring 2024
  • University of Bridgeport Deans' list: Fall 2024

References

Available upon request 

Timeline

Coordinator's Assistant

Primary Home Care LLC
12.2018 - Current

Clinical/Medical Assistant

Planned Parenthood Of Southern New England
12.2018 - 07.2019

Bachelor of Science - Medical Laboratory Science

University of Bridgeport

Bachelor of Science - Public Health

Southern Connecticut State University