Melissa Hernandez
Selma
Summary
Dynamic Vascular and Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist with extensive experience at Fresno VA Medical Center, specializing in trauma imaging and advanced fluoroscopic techniques. Committed to patient safety and ALARA principles, I have enhanced procedural outcomes through effective collaboration and patient education, and meticulous exposure control-delivering consistently high-quality imaging. Seeking to leverage these skills in a challenging cardiac and interventional radiology role where I can continue to support surgical teams and drive optimal patient care.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Radiologic Technologist
Fresno VA Medical Center
07.2024 - Current
- Gained hands-on experience in the new Hybrid Operating Room with a fixed C-arm unit with CT image acquisition system
- Learned to operate CT image acquisition on the new Hybrid C-arm for intraoperative 3D imaging and procedural guidance.
- Assisted in sterile procedures including interventional radiology, vascular cases, and cardiac catheterization lab procedures.
- Operated radiologic equipment to perform diagnostic imaging and interventional procedures.
- Ensured patient safety and comfort during imaging sessions.
- Assisted in maintaining accurate patient records and documentation.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to determine appropriate imaging techniques.
- Ensured patient safety and compliance with radiation protection standards, significantly reducing exposure risks.
- Conducted routine and specialized X-ray imaging to support timely diagnosis, contributing to improved patient outcomes.
- Contributed to patient education on imaging process, enhancing understanding and cooperation during procedures.
- Maintained sterile environments by adhering to infection control protocols and safety standards.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the interventional radiology suite, adhering to infection control protocols and radiation safety guidelines at all times.
- Participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on industry advancements and best practices.
- Utilized knowledge of anatomy, physiology and radiation protection to produce quality radiographs.
- Prepared patients for procedures, ensuring comfort and understanding of processes.
Radiologic Technologist
Adventist Health Hanford
10.2023 - Current
- Assisted in training new Radiologic Technologists on department policies, procedures, equipment usage, and best practices for patient care.
- Cultivated a positive team atmosphere by sharing knowledge, offering assistance, and fostering collaboration among colleagues.
- Operated radiologic equipment to produce diagnostic images and films.
- Contributed to a safe working environment by adhering to all radiation safety guidelines and protocols.
- Elevated the overall image of the radiology department by adhering to all professional standards and ethics while interacting with patients, families, and staff members.
Vascular Technologist
South Valley Vascular
02.2021 - Current
- Assisted vascular surgeons with angiograms, fistulograms, carotid imaging, and catheter placements.
- Performed atherectomy procedures using Phillips Laser, Bard Rotarex, and CSI devices for plaque removal and vessel recanalizaiton.
- Managed imaging equipment, prepped surgical site and tables, and maintained sterile technique and field.
- Monitored patient vital signs during procedures, reporting any abnormalities to the medical team.
- Helped implement protocols and optimize fluoroscopy image quality.
- Assisted in the preparation of contrast materials, ensuring proper handling and storage.
- Participated in ongoing training sessions to enhance skills in advanced imaging techniques and technologies.
- Skillfully managed contrast media injections during examinations, optimizing image clarity while minimizing risk of adverse reactions in patients.
- Maintained high standards of quality control for imaging equipment, ensuring accurate diagnostics and minimizing radiation exposure risks.
- Assisted physicians in conducting minimally invasive procedures, reducing recovery times for patients.
- Performed angioplasty procedures with precision, restoring blood flow to compromised vessels quickly and effectively.
- Prepared surgical instruments and equipment for various procedures, ensuring sterility and readiness.
- Conducted regular inventory checks of surgical supplies, maintaining adequate stock levels to prevent shortages.
- Displayed strong knowledge of anatomy and physiology while assisting radiologists during fluoroscopy procedures, improving overall image quality.
Radiologic Technologist III
St. Agnes Medical Center
06.2017 - Current
- Provided diagnostic x-rays, fluroscopy, and c-arm assistance in Endoscopy, Cardiac, Orthropedic, and general surgery.
- Worked as a Control Tech, managing department flow.
- Proficient in exams such as hysterosalpingograms, arthrograms, and myelograms.
- Performed diagnostic imaging procedures using X-ray and Fluoroscopic equipment to ensure accurate results.
- Captured images using mobile equipment in operating rooms, emergency rooms, and patients' bedsides.
- Ensured compliance with all state and federal regulations governing radiation exposure by maintaining proper documentation and following established protocols during every examination.
- Ensured proper functioning of radiology equipment through routine inspection, calibration, troubleshooting and repair when necessary.
- Aided in reducing repeat examinations due to image artifacts or poor positioning through thorough pre-imaging assessments.
- Streamlined patient workflow in radiology department, reducing wait times for imaging procedures.
- Evaluated images for technical quality and accuracy.
- Assisted radiologist in performing special imaging procedures.
- Prepared and positioned patients for imaging procedures.
- Prepared and mixed contrast agents for enhanced imaging.
- Collaborated with radiologists to discuss findings and optimize imaging protocols for enhanced patient care.
- Maintained compliance with safety standards and radiation protection guidelines to safeguard patients and staff.
- Trained junior technologists on equipment operation, safety protocols, and best practices in radiologic technology.
Radiologic Technologist
Adventist Health Selma
08.2015 - 06.2022
- Trained in Dexa scanning
- ALARA compliant
- Instructed patients on proper positioning for imaging.
- Upheld high level of service to patients by assisting in different ways, displaying professionalism, and responding appropriately to questions and concerns.
- Complied with HIPAA and company regulations to maintain confidentiality regarding patient health data and medical records.
- Operated radiologic equipment to obtain images of body structures.
- Administered various doses of radiation to obtain desired images.
- Operated radiologic equipment to produce diagnostic images and films.
Radiologic Technologist
Kaweah Delta Medical Center
07.2015 - 06.2017
- Specialized in in trauma imaging with C-arm and O-arm (CT acquisition) in a level three trauma facility
- Conducted weekly Quality Assurance on fluoroscopic equipment
- Operated C-arm fluoroscopy for emergency and routine imaging.
- Operated the O-arm CT image acquisition system for intraoperative 3D imaging and surgical navigation for Neurology and Orthopedic surgeries.
- Thrived in trauma situations, obtaining portable x-rays, fluoroscopy, and portable C-arm studies.
- Implemented infection control protocols during imaging procedures.
- Monitored equipment functionality and reported issues promptly.
- Adapted to diverse patient needs while providing high-quality care.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
Radiologic Technologist Assistant
Adventist Health Selma
08.2014 - 08.2015
- Assisted radiologic technologists in preparing patients for imaging procedures.
- Monitored patient comfort and safety during exams, addressing concerns promptly.
- Promoted a positive work environment by offering assistance and support to colleagues as needed.
- Prepared patients for radiographic exams, obtaining high-quality images with minimal discomfort.
- Demonstrated punctuality by arriving early to scheduled shifts and promptly attending to assigned duties throughout the day.
- Assisted radiologic technologists in performing diagnostic imaging examinations, ensuring accurate results.
- Explained imaging procedures to patients, offering comfort and assistance.
- Welcomed patients and tried to make procedures as pleasant as possible through discretion and personal support.
Medical Imaging Specialist (Ultrasound & X-ray)
Valley Children Hospital
01.2014 - 02.2015
- Served as the primary point of contact for all incoming calls to imaging dept, triaging inquiries and directing them to appropriate tech or radiologist.
- Designated appropriate staff to portable x-rays and trauma exams, coordinated breaks for staff, and verified that imaging orders met Valley Children's protocols.
- Prepared "priors" (lab work, orders, pertinent history) for following days scheduled exams
- Responsible for calling in On-Call radiologist for emergent fluoroscopy studies and communicated all necessary patient and exam info.
- assisted with stocking rooms, setting for studies, pulling prior imaging, lab work, and history for technologist.
Education
Associate of Science - RADIOLGIC TECHNOLOGY
FRESNO CITY COLLEGE
Fresno, CA05-2015
High School Diploma -
SELMA HIGH SCHOOL
Selma, CA06-2003
Skills
- Commitment to patient safety
- Direct patient care
- Trauma imaging techniques
- Fluoroscopic imaging expertise
- PACS system proficiency
- Contrast administration
- Cardiac imaging
- Proficient in interventional radiology
- Computed tomography
- Vascular and Nonvascular Angiographic Procedures
Certification
- American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Radiography (ARRT)(R)
- Basic Life Support
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Radiologic Technologist
Fresno VA Medical Center
07.2024 - Current
Radiologic Technologist
Adventist Health Hanford
10.2023 - Current
Vascular Technologist
South Valley Vascular
02.2021 - Current
Radiologic Technologist III
St. Agnes Medical Center
06.2017 - Current
Radiologic Technologist
Adventist Health Selma
08.2015 - 06.2022
Radiologic Technologist
Kaweah Delta Medical Center
07.2015 - 06.2017
Radiologic Technologist Assistant
Adventist Health Selma
08.2014 - 08.2015
Medical Imaging Specialist (Ultrasound & X-ray)
Valley Children Hospital
01.2014 - 02.2015
Associate of Science - RADIOLGIC TECHNOLOGY
FRESNO CITY COLLEGE
High School Diploma -
SELMA HIGH SCHOOL
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