Lydia Farnham
Essentia Health
BILLINGS
1
Certification
3
years of professional experience
Detail-oriented medical professional committed to high standards of cleanliness and patient care. Knowledgeable in medical terminology and electronic health records, with a strong desire to expand expertise in a medical environment. Ready to leverage skills in patient interaction and administrative support to contribute effectively in any role.
Work History
Sterile Processing Technician
2 Months- Operated steam sterilizers, washer-disinfects, and low-temperature systems to process reusable medical devices.
- Decontaminated surgical instruments following infection-control standards and manufacturer instructions.
- Verified biological indicators, chemical indicators, and sterilization logs for compliance and traceability.
- Inspected, assembled, and wrapped instrument trays for accurate surgical case readiness.
- Organized case carts and prioritized instrument turnaround to support procedural workflow.
Support Staff/Certified Phlebotomist
5 Months- Performed venipuncture and capillary collections with accuracy, patient comfort, and specimen integrity.
- Prepared, labeled, and processed blood samples according to laboratory and regulatory standards.
- Maintained infection control, safety protocols, and proper biohazard disposal practices throughout workflow.
- Coordinated specimen handling with laboratory staff to support timely testing and reporting.
- Resolved difficult draws by selecting appropriate sites and adjusting approach for patient needs.
- Demonstrated effectiveness in high-pressure situations to maintain service quality, maintaining composure and professionalism during peak hours and emergency scenarios.
- Demonstrated adaptability by effectively performing blood draws on diverse patient populations, including pediatric, geriatric, and challenging cases.
- Coordinated patient intake, verifying demographics, insurance details, and visit information for accurate records.
- Prepared exam rooms, stocked supplies, and maintained clean clinical areas between patient visits.
- Documented vital signs, symptoms, and care updates in electronic health records with accuracy.
- Assisted patients with forms, directions, and basic questions to improve visit efficiency.
- Verified participant identity, requisitions, and specimen labels to maintain sample integrity.
- Collected venous and capillary specimens using aseptic technique and patient-centered communication.
Caregiver
1 Year 9 Months- Assisted clients with bathing, dressing, grooming, and daily living activities.
- Provided companionship, emotional support, and attentive conversation to reduce isolation.
- Prepared nutritious meals and followed individualized dietary guidelines.
- Administered medication reminders and monitored routine care schedules.
- Supported safe mobility, transfers, and ambulation using proper techniques.
- Maintained clean living spaces through light housekeeping and laundry tasks.
- Documented client observations and reported changes in condition promptly.
- Coordinated errands, appointments, and transportation to support daily independence.
- Assisted clients with activities of daily living, promoting independence and quality of life.
- Assisted with dressing guidance, grooming, meal preparation, and medication reminders.
- Assisted patients with self-administered medications.
- Administered medications as prescribed, ensuring accurate dosage and timely administration for maximum efficacy.
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families during challenging times, fostering trust and strong relationships.
- Prioritized patient dignity, privacy, and autonomy during all aspects of care provision.
- Recognized and reported abnormalities or changes in patients' health status to a case manager.
- Managed patient appointments and transportation needs, ensuring punctual arrival at medical visits and other engagements.
- Monitored client vital signs, administered medications, and tracked behaviors to keep healthcare supervisor well-informed.
- Implemented fall prevention strategies within the home environment by identifying hazards or obstacles that posed risk to patient safety.
Phlebotomist
1 Year 7 Months- Labeled transfer tubes and followed exact directions for handling and storing specimens for transport.
- Maintained a high level of accuracy in labeling and tracking specimens, ensuring proper testing and timely results.
- Centrifuged blood samples as outlined in clinical protocols.
- Completed proper sanitation and cleaning of equipment and work areas between patients.
- Reduced contamination risks by strictly adhering to infection control protocols and maintaining a clean work environment.
- Tracked collected specimens by initialing, dating, and noting times of collection.
- Established and maintained positive working relationships with patients, staff and clinical personnel to build trust and camaraderie.
- Used personal protective equipment correctly to protect coworkers and patients.
- Collaborated with medical professionals to ensure accurate test orders and appropriate sample collection methods were used.
- Performed venipuncture and capillary collections with accuracy, patient comfort, and specimen integrity.
- Verified patient identity, test orders, and collection requirements before specimen collection.
- Prepared, labeled, and processed blood samples according to laboratory and regulatory standards.
- Maintained infection control, safety protocols, and proper biohazard disposal practices throughout workflow.
- Coordinated specimen handling with laboratory staff to support timely testing and reporting.
- Trained new phlebotomy staff on collection techniques, patient interaction, and documentation procedures.
- Resolved difficult draws by selecting appropriate sites and adjusting approach for patient needs.
- Monitored supply levels and organized collection areas to support efficient daily operations.
- Enhanced patient experience through compassionate care and communication during blood draw procedures.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Health Studies
- UND Merit Scholarship Recipient
- Dollars 4 Scholars Scholarship Recipient
- Pre-Physician Assistant Club Member
High School Diploma
- 3.8 GPA
- Key Club Member
- HOSA Club Member
- DECA Club Member
- Elected Captain of Varsity Softball, 2021 and 2022 seasons
- Extracurricular Activities: Softball and Basketball
- National Honor Society Member
- Honor Roll 2018-2022
Skills
High-level disinfection
Instrument processing
Specimen handling
Venipuncture
Patient care
Wound care
Medication management
Workflow organization
HIPAA compliance
Medical records management
Problem-solving
Patient interaction
Certification
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician
- Zero Hero Certification Award
Timeline
Sterile Processing Technician
Essentia Health
07.2026 - 09.2026Read More
Support Staff/Certified Phlebotomist
Axis Clinicals
12.2025 - 05.2026Read More
Caregiver
Home Care Companions
08.2024 - 05.2026Read More
Phlebotomist
Altru Hospital
01.2024 - 08.2025Read More
University of North Dakota
Bachelor of Science from Health Studies
Read More
North High School
High School Diploma
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