Barenda Bandara
Springfield
Summary
Motivated and compassionate nursing student with over 8 years of experience as a Patient Care Assistant. Currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing at Holyoke Community College with concurrent Bachelor of Science in Nursing coursework at Westfield State University. Completed CNA-level training, certified in First Aid/BLS and MAP. Strong skills in patient care, safety, documentation, and teamwork.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
Pathlight / ServiceNet
01.2017 - Current
- Provide direct patient care in residential healthcare settings
- Support individuals with behavioral and emotional needs
- Assist with bathing, dressing, meals, and mobility
- Monitor vital signs and report changes to healthcare team for timely interventions
- Administer medications according to MAP regulations
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
Home Watch Caregivers
01.2020 - 01.2022
- Provided in-home patient care and companionship
- Assisted with hygiene, meals, and mobility
- Monitored patient well-being and reported concerns
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
May Institute
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Assisted patients with daily living activities and personal care
- Implemented individualized care and behavioral support plans
- Ensured patient safety and followed healthcare protocols
- Administered medications according to MAP regulations
Diet Aide
Providence Hospital
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Delivered meals in accordance with dietary orders
- Followed sanitation and infection-control standards
- Provided courteous support to patients and staff
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Concurrent Enrollment
Westfield State University
Westfield, MA01-2027
Associate Degree in Nursing - In Progress
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke, MA01-2027
High School Diploma -
Cathedral High School
Wilbraham, MA06-2017
Skills
- Patient care & activities of daily living
- Vital signs monitoring
- Infection control & safety procedures
- Behavioral & emotional support
- Patient observation & reporting
- Documentation
- Team collaboration
- HIPAA & patient confidentiality
Certification
- Basic Life Support (CPR and AED) Program: American Heart Association
- Massachusetts Medication Administration Program (MAP) Certification
Timeline
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
Home Watch Caregivers
01.2020 - 01.2022
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
May Institute
01.2019 - 01.2021
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
Pathlight / ServiceNet
01.2017 - Current
Diet Aide
Providence Hospital
01.2017 - 01.2018
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Concurrent Enrollment
Westfield State University
Associate Degree in Nursing - In Progress
Holyoke Community College
High School Diploma -
Cathedral High School
Clinical Training
Jump Start Program – CNA-Level Training (June 2025)
Holyoke Community College, Holyoke, MA
- Hands-on clinical training in patient care fundamentals
- Assisted with hygiene, mobility, transfers, and vital signs
- Trained in infection control and patient safety protocols