Vanessa Taylor-Herrera
San Antonio,TX
Summary
Applied Science graduate offering knowledge in surgical technology and the healthcare field.
Strong planner, leader, and problem solver who readily adapts to change, works independently and as a team and exceeds expectations.
Able to juggle multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines without compromising quality. Have a strong work ethic and desire to learn.
Professional with proven track record in surgical environments, adept at facilitating successful operations and ensuring patient safety.
Skilled in sterilization techniques, instrument handling, and maintaining aseptic conditions.
Strong focus on teamwork and adapting to dynamic surgical needs. Known for reliability and commitment to excellence in patient care.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Surgical Technologist & Sterile Processing Instrument Tech GS 06-09
San Antonio Military Medical Center
San Antonio, TX
07.2014 - Current
- Daily Duties to include in Sterile Processing and Distribution Department, responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, storing and organizing reusable instrumentation and equipment from the hospital's departments.
- Proficient in computer programs to keep track of inventory and maintain the demands of the O.R. and staff throughout the hospital. Documents all perimeters and data for sterilization, inventory, and restocking of instrumentation.
- Pulls cases for surgery pre-operatively. Is proficient in providing assistance to the health care providers in the operating room.
- Assist shift leaders in overseeing a team of employees, communicating effectively to set priorities and expectations for each shift. Resolves issues quickly by listening to concerns and collaborating with leadership to find solutions.
- Ensures items are free of microorganisms including daily spore testing and sterilizer control measures as it relates to quality assurance.
- Researches and applies the Joint Commission (TJC), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) standards as they pertain to sterile processing and the distribution of medical supplies.
- I perform identification of proper procedures for the full range of medical and surgical supplies and equipment used in the hospital; specializing and increasing my knowledge of duties, priorities, commitments, policies, and goals of the DHA. I sufficiently perform non-routine assignments, such as independently noting and following-up on commitments made at meetings/conferences, advising others on preparing correspondence, requirements for various reports, and interpreting new instructions and procedures.
- I have a proven track record of leadership and managing a fast-paced and dynamic environment. I use strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions. I communicate and use my interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively engage and influence team members at all levels.
- Demonstrated exceptional adaptability when faced with unexpected challenges or changes during surgery, responding quickly without compromising patient safety or procedural success.
Surgical Technologist & Sterile Processing Instrument Tech
Northeast Baptist Hospital
San Antonio, TX
01.2013 - 07.2014
- Responsible for ensuring that they have adequate inventory of instruments and disposable items to meet the needs of doctors, nurses, surgeons and technical staff throughout the hospital. Pulled items and set up cases for surgery pre-operatively. Helped create the sterile field for surgery and participated in passing equipment and instrumentation.
- Assembled, adjusted, maintained and applied the processing procedures for the full range of medical and surgical supplies and equipment used in the hospital. Aided in the care of patients’ equipment and trays used in the clinics, hospital and operating room suites.
- Evaluated procedure needs and set up equipment, tools, supplies, and instruments.
- Increased efficiency during surgeries by anticipating surgeon''s needs and providing timely assistance.
Pharmacy Care Representative & HBC Lead
HEB Grocery Co.
San Antonio, TX
05.2002 - 04.2014
- Customer service in the Pharmacy with transactions, medicinal and insurance questions. Retrieved and filed medications. Maintained order and consistency with medication stock.
- Communicated effectively within department to plan meetings and enforce standard operating procedures as second hand to the department manager. Stock Controller within the HBC department which requires stocking, ordering, and maintenance of merchandise.
- In charge of Returned Good Center and Shrink for the HBC department to reduce the amount of dollars lost within the company. Earned excellent marks on performance reviews, with citations for excellence in areas including accuracy and quality; ability to learn and master new concepts; positive healthcare work ethic; and commitment to providing unsurpassed customer service.
Education
Bachelor of Applied Science -
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MI12-2021
Surgical Technology Certification -
St. Philip's College
San Antonio, TX08-2012
Clinical Lab Science Courses -
University of Texas Health Science Center
San Antonio, TX01-2006
Biology For Pre-Med Courses -
University of Texas in San Antonio
San Antonio, TX01-2005
Associates in Science - Pre-Med
Northwest Vista College
San Antonio, TX06-2005
High School Diploma -
Sandra Day O'Connor HS
Helotes, TX06-2002
Skills
- Can readily anticipate the needs of surgical personnel Possess pre-operative preparation, intra-operative, & post-operative procedural skills Highly organized and results-focused leader with over 12 years of experience in operative services coaching and mentoring teams of 5 to 15 employees
- Proven record of spearheading projects, teams, in-services, teaching, or learning opportunities to increase operational efficiency and improve collaboration among interdepartmental teams Possesses exceptional communication and problem-solving skills
Certification
- AST Certified Surgical Technologist #137306
- CBSP Certified Sterile Processing Technician #30466 (expired)
- Certified Pharmacy Health Screener (Certified in 2014)
Affiliations
- Association of Surgical Technologists Member #170986
- Advisory Board Committee of Surgical Technology at St.Philips College Member 2011-2012
Timeline
Surgical Technologist & Sterile Processing Instrument Tech GS 06-09
San Antonio Military Medical Center
07.2014 - Current
Surgical Technologist & Sterile Processing Instrument Tech
Northeast Baptist Hospital
01.2013 - 07.2014
Pharmacy Care Representative & HBC Lead
HEB Grocery Co.
05.2002 - 04.2014
Bachelor of Applied Science -
Siena Heights University
Surgical Technology Certification -
St. Philip's College
Clinical Lab Science Courses -
University of Texas Health Science Center
Biology For Pre-Med Courses -
University of Texas in San Antonio
Associates in Science - Pre-Med
Northwest Vista College
High School Diploma -
Sandra Day O'Connor HS