Kristen Atkins
Boiling Springs
Summary
Compassionate veterinary technologist with background in providing comprehensive support in animal healthcare settings. Skilled in diagnostic procedures, patient care, and emergency response, ensuring high-quality treatment for animals. Strong communicator with ability to educate pet owners on animal health and wellness. Contributed to improving clinic efficiency through streamlining workflow and enhancing team collaboration.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Veterinary Technician
Westside Veterinary Hospital
Spartanburg
09.2018 - 02.2025
- Ordered supplies needed for the practice such as medications or medical instruments.
- Recommended vitamins and supplements, dental cleaning, flea control, geriatric care and dietary measures to support optimal health.
- Supported veterinarians to drive quality care, advocate for pets and educate clients.
- Assisted veterinarians in performing surgical procedures by preparing the operating room, monitoring anesthesia levels, and administering medications to animals.
- Dispensed prescription medications upon request from veterinarians.
- Observed animal physical conditions to detect illness or unhealthy conditions requiring medical care.
- Prepared and reviewed records and consent forms.
- Performed routine laboratory procedures for hematology, urinalysis and serology.
- Performed physical examinations and recorded weight, temperature and other vitals.
- Prepared and administered medications and vaccines as prescribed by veterinarian.
- Recorded observations and baseline measurements to maintain accurate medical records.
- Assisted veterinarian with surgical procedures by assembling and sterilizing instruments and administering anesthesia.
- Leveraged ultrasound and x-ray equipment for imaging and interpreted results.
- Scrubbed, counted and packed surgical instruments and drapes for autoclave sterilization.
- Administered and monitored anesthesia for surgeries and operations.
- Shaved surgical areas and placed IV catheters in preparation for surgery.
- Addressed healthcare needs of animals by coordinating with veterinarians and following orders.
- Partnered with IDEXX to analyze blood samples and diagnose conditions and diseases.
- Monitored vital signs during surgery and notified veterinarian of changes.
- Assisted with polishing, removing stains and other dental procedures.
- Restrained and stabilized animals during examination and treatment to prevent injuries.
- Operated x-ray machines and exposed radiographic films.
Veterinary Technician
Bell Farms
Spartanburg
01.2016 - 09.2018
- Ordered supplies needed for the practice such as medications or medical instruments.
- Recommended vitamins and supplements, dental cleaning, flea control, geriatric care and dietary measures to support optimal health.
- Supported veterinarians to drive quality care, advocate for pets and educate clients.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls outside normal business hours.
- Observed behavioral characteristics of animals in order to provide insight into possible illnesses or changes in behavior.
- Dispensed prescription medications upon request from veterinarians.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
- Observed animal physical conditions to detect illness or unhealthy conditions requiring medical care.
- Prepared and reviewed records and consent forms.
- Developed educational and marketing materials detailing veterinary services.
- Listened to clients' questions and concerns regarding pets and delivered timely responses and information on treatment protocols and procedures.
- Prepared and administered medications and vaccines as prescribed by veterinarian.
Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant
Emeritus Senior Living
Greenville
04.2007 - 02.2016
- Educated patients and families on exercises and home care techniques for continued care.
- Demonstrated flexibility when adapting to changing schedules or demands placed upon the department.
- Observed and reported patient reaction to treatment or changes in condition, facilitating appropriate follow-up.
- Studied treatment plans and adjusted exercises periodically to maximize benefits.
- Adhered to safety protocols to prevent patient injuries during therapy sessions.
- Instructed patients on proper use of assistive devices such as canes, walkers and wheelchairs.
- Observed changes in symptoms or behavior that may indicate a need for further evaluation or treatment plan modification.
- Assisted patients with removing clothing and supportive devices before appointments.
- Developed relationships with patients through compassionate communication and understanding of their individual needs.
- Performed administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and ordering supplies.
- Ensured compliance with all healthcare regulations and standards during therapy sessions.
- Managed scheduling and billing tasks related to patient care.
- Monitored patients' progress throughout their physical therapy sessions.
- Conducted therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques under the supervision of a physical therapist.
- Assisted physical therapists in developing treatment plans for patients.
- Enhanced professional development and clinical knowledge through continuing education and peer reviewed literature.
- Provided direct patient care, including exercises, modalities, and manual therapy techniques to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- Recorded detailed prognosis, treatment, responses, and progress notes in patient charts.
- Helped transport frail or disabled patients to different treatment areas.
- Administered simple range of motion exercises.
- Collaborated with PT to assist in assessment and modifications to plan of care.
- Modified therapeutic activities based on patients' abilities and conditions.
- Maintained patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA guidelines.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive care plans for each patient.
CNA
Emeritus Senior Living
08.2004 - 01.2006
- Transported specimens, laboratory items or pharmacy items, verifying proper documentation and delivery to authorized personnel.
- Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
- Demonstrated excellent customer service skills when interacting with patients, families and guests.
- Supported daily living activities by serving meals, feeding, ambulating and turning over and positioning patients.
- Monitored vital signs such as pulse rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure.
- Administered medications under supervision of a licensed nurse.
- Assisted patients with daily living activities, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to ensure quality patient care was delivered at all times.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Veterinary Science
Penn Foster College
Scottsdale, AZ04-2017
Associate of Science - Physical Therapy
Greenville Technical College
Greenville, SC05-2006
Cna Certification - Cna
Swofford Career Center
Spartanburg, SC05-2002
Skills
- Jugular intravenous catheterization
- Closed-chest CPR
- Tail restraint
- Thoracic and abdominal radiograph
- Animal examination
- Animal restraint
- Surgical assistance
- Treatment administration
- Laboratory skills
- Dental procedures
- Anesthesia monitoring
- Lab operations
- Suture removal
- Instrument pack sterilization
- Supply restocking
- Sanitation protocols
- Euthanasia
- Clinical pathology
- Medical record-keeping
- IV medication administration
- Animal behavior observation
- Rehabilitation techniques
- Medication dispensing
- Vaccine administration
Timeline
Veterinary Technician
Westside Veterinary Hospital
09.2018 - 02.2025
Veterinary Technician
Bell Farms
01.2016 - 09.2018
Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant
Emeritus Senior Living
04.2007 - 02.2016
CNA
Emeritus Senior Living
08.2004 - 01.2006
Bachelor of Science - Veterinary Science
Penn Foster College
Associate of Science - Physical Therapy
Greenville Technical College
Cna Certification - Cna
Swofford Career Center