Karen Acosta

Maintained an organized and sterile instrument table to support surgical efficiency and patient safety

• Executed aseptic techniques consistently throughout surgical procedures
• Assisted in proper draping and positioning of patients and surgical team members
• Followed universal precautions when handling and disposing of contaminated instruments and hazardous materials
• Performed accurate surgical counts of needles, sponges, blades, and other items before, during, and after procedures
• Assisted in various surgical specialties, including orthopedic total joint replacements, general surgeries, and spinal procedures
• Adapted quickly to new surgical procedures and unfamiliar equipment
• Assembled surgical trays, prepared case carts, and stocked supplies in the Sterile Processing Department
• Anticipated surgeon needs and provided instruments and equipment according to preferences and procedural requirements
• Ensured proper labeling, handling, and dispensing of medications in compliance with hospital policies and safety protocols
• Maintained the integrity of the sterile field throughout operations
• Supported surgical teams by passing instruments, holding retractors, cutting sutures, and performing tasks as directed by the surgeon
• Demonstrated strong prioritization, adaptability, and reliability; remained calm and efficient in high-pressure environments
• General Surgery:
  Umbilical Hernia, Inguinal Herniorrhaphy, Exploratory Laparotomy, Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, AV Fistula Creation
• Orthopedic Surgery:
  Bilateral Knee Arthroplasty, Bilateral Knee Resurfacing, Shoulder Arthroplasty, Humerus ORIF, Femur IM Rodding (Antegrade), Metatarsal Resection, Carpal Tunnel Release
• Gynecological Surgery:
  Abdominal Myomectomy, Vaginal Myomectomy, Hysterectomy
• Neurosurgery:
  Craniotomy, Lumbar Laminectomy
• Urological Procedures:
  Cystolithotripsy with Laser
• Breast Surgery:
  Breast Mastectomy
• Head and Neck Surgery:
  Modified Neck Dissection
• ENT / Otolaryngology:
  Tonsillectomy, Bilateral Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

• Provided surgical scrub support to a private Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, assisting in a range of procedures, including trauma, orthognathic surgeries, and reconstructive facial surgeries
• Participated in complex facial tumor excisions, ensuring proper handling of delicate soft tissue and bony structures, and maintaining a sterile field throughout intricate operations
• Followed the surgeon to multiple facilities, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Dignity Health Northridge Hospital, adapting to different surgical teams and protocols
• Prepared and managed specialized instrumentation such as plating systems, bone saws, and suction-irrigation systems specific to maxillofacial procedures
• Ensured accurate surgical counts, medication handling, and sterile technique compliance for optimal patient outcomes