Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Donnie Shepherd

Lumberton,MS

Summary

Dynamic respiratory therapy leader with extensive experience at Forrest General Hospital, excelling in patient care coordination and staff development. Achieved improved patient outcomes through evidence-based practices and streamlined operations. Known for excellent communication and problem-solving skills, fostering collaboration across departments to enhance service quality and reduce readmissions.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Respiratory Therapy

Forrest General Hospital
09.2020 - Current
  • Directed daily operations of the respiratory therapy department, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
  • Supported upper level management and shift supervisors by collecting vital information and preparing necessary documentation.
  • Facilitate the purchase of and maintenance of respiratory therapy equipment, maintaining functionality and cleanliness standards.
  • Conducted team meetings, sharing insights on employee management, patient care strategies and workflow improvements.
  • Adapted quickly to new processes and technologies within the respiratory therapy environment.
  • Analyzed and reported on key departmental metrics to hospital leadership, demonstrating the impact of the respiratory therapy services on overall patient care quality and outcomes.
  • Evaluated and assessed health care trends to establish new patterns of service based on vital measurements, productivity statistics and quality control outcomes.
  • Established strong relationships with referring physicians, fostering collaboration in the management of respiratory patients across various clinical settings.
  • Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based respiratory therapy practices and protocols.
  • Streamlined department operations by identifying areas for improvement and implementing efficient processes.
  • Implemented quality improvement initiatives focused on enhancing patient satisfaction and reducing readmissions related to respiratory issues.
  • Promote ventilator weaning protocols to reduce ICU length of stay while maintaining the highest standard of patient safety.
  • Optimized resource utilization by regularly reviewing staffing levels, equipment availability, and budget allocations.

Shift Supervisor/educator, FGH Respiratory Therapy

Forrest General Hospital
12.2007 - 10.2020
  • Supervised daily operations to ensure efficient workflow and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Trained and mentored team members on best practices and operational procedures.
  • Implemented process improvements that enhanced productivity and reduced downtime.
  • Coordinated staff schedules to optimize coverage during peak hours.
  • Monitored inventory levels and initiated orders to maintain stock availability.
  • Conducted performance evaluations to foster employee development and accountability.
  • Resolved customer complaints and issues and offered thoughtful solutions to maintain customer satisfaction.
  • Enforced company policies and regulations with employees.
  • Provided ongoing support to employees during challenging situations, offering guidance on problem-solving techniques for improved efficiency outcomes.
  • Served as a liaison between employees and upper management effectively facilitating communication that bridged any existing gaps.
  • Resolved conflicts among team members diplomatically, promoting a harmonious work atmosphere conducive to collaboration.
  • Reduced employee turnover rate by fostering a positive work environment and addressing staff concerns promptly.
  • Implemented training programs for new hires, ensuring seamless integration into the team and faster productivity contributions.

Respiratory Therapist

Forrest General Hospital
03.2002 - 12.2007
  • Administered respiratory therapies to patients, ensuring optimal care and adherence to treatment protocols.
  • Developed individualized treatment plans based on patient assessments and clinical evaluations.
  • Monitored patient progress, adjusting therapies as needed to enhance respiratory function.
  • Educated patients and families on respiratory health, equipment usage, and medication management.
  • Managed ventilator support for critically ill patients in intensive care units, ensuring proper adjustments according to physician orders and clinical guidelines.
  • Administered oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy and inhalation therapy to improve patients' breathing and lung function.
  • Provided emergency response assistance in cases of respiratory distress or failure as part of a rapid response team.
  • Assessed, diagnosed, and treated breathing issues.
  • Performed bronchial hygiene techniques to remove mucus and secretions from patient lungs and improve lung function.
  • Provided antibiotics, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory medications with hand-held nebulizers, metered-dose inhalers and positive pressure equipment.

Respiratory Care Practitioner Instructor

Pearl River Community College
04.2001 - 08.2001
  • Trained and mentored junior staff in advanced respiratory procedures and technologies.
  • Served as a preceptor for new employees and students in the respiratory therapy program, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Education

Associate of Science - Respiratory Therapy Practitioner

Pearl River Community College
Hattiesburg, MS
05-2000

Skills

  • Clinical expertise
  • Patient care coordination
  • Staff development
  • Performance improvement
  • Interdepartmental collaboration
  • Teamwork
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication

Timeline

Director of Respiratory Therapy

Forrest General Hospital
09.2020 - Current

Shift Supervisor/educator, FGH Respiratory Therapy

Forrest General Hospital
12.2007 - 10.2020

Respiratory Therapist

Forrest General Hospital
03.2002 - 12.2007

Respiratory Care Practitioner Instructor

Pearl River Community College
04.2001 - 08.2001

Associate of Science - Respiratory Therapy Practitioner

Pearl River Community College