Melissa Kurtz
Muskogee,OK
Summary
Dynamic Certified Respiratory Therapist with extensive experience at Cornerstone Specialty Hospital, adept in airway management and arterial blood gas analysis. Proven ability to enhance patient outcomes through effective education and compassionate care. Skilled in aerosol therapy and tracheostomy care, committed to improving respiratory health and patient comfort.
Demonstrates strong focus on patient care, respiratory therapy techniques, and mechanical ventilation management. Known for fostering collaborative environments and adapting to evolving clinical needs.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Certified Respiratory Therapist
Cornerstone Specialty Hospital
Muskogee, OK
05.2007 - Current
- Managed ventilator support for critically ill patients in intensive care units, ensuring proper adjustments according to physician orders and clinical guidelines.
- Managed and operated mechanical ventilators to deliver airway management.
- 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.
- Educated patients and families on disease management, breathing techniques, and medication administration, promoting self-care and adherence to treatment plans.
- 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.
- Educated patients and families on proper use of respiratory equipment and techniques for managing respiratory disorders to improve patient outcomes.
- Performed arterial blood gas analysis
- Assisted in special respiratory procedures such as bedside bronchoscopies and bedside tracheostomies.
Certified Respiratory Therapist
Tahlequah City Hospital
Tahlequah, OK
06.2003 - 05.2006
- Managed and operated mechanical ventilators to deliver airway management.
- Administered oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy and inhalation therapy to improve patients' breathing and lung function.
- Performed bronchial hygiene techniques to remove mucus and secretions from patient lungs and improve lung function.
Respiratory Therapist
Muskogee Regional Medical Center
Muskogee, OK
06.2000 - 06.2003
- Administered appropriate oxygen therapy to maintain proper oxygenation level, and using proper oxygenation devices.
- Provided antibiotics, bronchodilators, and anti-inflammatory medications with hand-held nebulizers, metered-dose inhalers and positive pressure equipment.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Respiratory Therapy
Tulsa Community College
Tulsa, OKSkills
- Aerosol therapy
- Arterial blood gas analysis
- Respiratory care protocols
- Bronchial hygiene
- Airway management
- Noninvasive ventilation
- Tracheostomy care
- Oxygen therapy
- Respiratory equipment setup
- Patient education
- Professional bedside manner
- Medication administration
Timeline
Certified Respiratory Therapist
Cornerstone Specialty Hospital
05.2007 - Current
Certified Respiratory Therapist
Tahlequah City Hospital
06.2003 - 05.2006
Respiratory Therapist
Muskogee Regional Medical Center
06.2000 - 06.2003
Associate of Applied Science - Respiratory Therapy
Tulsa Community College