BLS Featured CMLSO: Deborah Fuentes

Tell us about yourself

My name is Deborah J. Fuentes. I have a degree in nursing and radiologic technology, and am a licensed radiologic technologist and certified licensed medical laser safety officer.

I am also the administrator for Pioneer Valley SurgiCenter, a freestanding, ambulatory surgery center in Massachusetts.

When did you start working with lasers?

In 2004, I was the OR Team Leader when we acquired our first KTP laser and I had an interest in learning more about lasers. This led to becoming the facility LSO.

Do you like being the LSO?

Yes, I do like being the LSO. I believe the biggest challenge of being today's LSO is saying current with every changing regulation in the healthcare setting.

How has becoming certified helped you in your career?

I feel going through the certification process helped me to become more knowledgeable about laser safety and use. Maintaining my certification allows me to keep up with regulations in the medical setting, and attending laser safety courses allows me to network with other LSOs.