Emerson Braga

Pulmonary Diagnostics and Respiratory Therapy

• Conducted pulmonary function tests (PFTs) using MGC Platinum Elite Body Plethysmograph, NDD, and PulmOne systems.
• Performed diagnostic procedures such as spirometry, plethysmography, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and gas diffusion (DLCO) analysis.
• Administered 6-minute walk tests (6MWT) to evaluate functional exercise capacity, and monitor oxygen saturation.
• Provided respiratory therapy services to patients with conditions including COPD, asthma, and pneumonia.
• Administered oxygen therapy and monitored patient responses to treatment.
• Counseled patients on the proper use of inhalers and respiratory devices.

Collaborative Patient Care and Interdisciplinary Coordination

• Cooperated with physicians and nurses to develop individualized treatment plans.
• Delivered timely, precise lung function test results to support clinical decision-making.
• Participated in interdisciplinary rounds to discuss patient progress and adjust treatment plans.

Polysomnography

• Operated and maintained polysomnography equipment to ensure high-quality data collection.
• Prepared patients for home sleep studies, including sensor placement and patient education.
• Coordinated CPAP therapy for patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, in collaboration with physicians.
• Troubleshot and calibrated equipment to maintain functionality and accuracy.
• Assisted physicians in interpreting sleep study data and determining appropriate treatment.

Administrative Duties and Equipment Management

• Maintained accurate documentation of all treatments and patient progress in electronic medical records (EMR).
• Collaborated with equipment vendors to ensure the timely availability of supplies, and resolve technical issues.
• Ensured proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment between uses to maintain infection control standards.
• Worked with insurance companies to obtain pre-authorizations for sleep studies, and facilitate timely reimbursement.

Patient Assessment

• Assessed patients' breathing and lung function to diagnose respiratory problems.
• Gather patients' medical history and identify signs & symptoms of respiratory distress.
• Perform physical examinations to assess lung sounds, breathing rate, and oxygen saturation levels.
  Develop and implement individualized treatment plans.

Treatment

• Administer oxygen therapy, including oxygen masks, nasal cannulas, and oxygen tents.
• Operate mechanical ventilators and other respiratory equipment to assist with breathing.
• Conduct inhalation therapy, including administering aerosol medications and nebulized treatments.
• Monitor patients’ progress, and adjust therapy as needed.

Equipment Maintenance

• Clean, disinfect, and maintain respiratory equipment, including ventilators, oxygen analyzers, and humidifiers.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and perform basic repairs.
• Perform quality control tests on equipment to ensure proper functioning.

Patient Communication

• Educate patients and their families on disease management and self-care techniques.
• Communicate with healthcare providers about patient progress, treatment plans, and any changes in patient condition.

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate records of patient treatments, test results, and progress notes.