Tracy Hawkins
Newberry,SC
Summary
Seasoned Respiratory Therapist with 10 years of experience in hospital healthcare settings. Skillful in completing patient assessments, blood gas analysis and interpretation and airway management. Successful at implementing best practices to continuously advance respiratory therapy outcomes. Treats wide range of patients from premature infants to elderly people with lung disease. Delivers expert technical and physical support while assisting and encouraging patients emotionally.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Respiratory Therapist
Prisma Health Richland
2013.10 - 2024.02
- Improved patient care by developing individualized treatment plans based on thorough assessments and evaluations.
- Enhanced patient outcomes by effectively administering respiratory therapy treatments and interventions.
- Streamlined clinical processes through the implementation of efficient protocols for respiratory care procedures.
- Ensured patient safety with diligent monitoring of vital signs during therapeutic interventions.
- Collaborated closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans addressing patient needs and goals.
- Educated patients and families on disease management, breathing techniques, and medication administration, promoting self-care and adherence to treatment plans.
- Kept abreast of industry advancements by attending continuing education courses, maintaining current knowledge of evidence-based practices.
- Managed ventilator support for critically ill patients in intensive care units, ensuring proper adjustments according to physician orders and clinical guidelines.
- Reduced hospital readmissions by providing effective discharge planning and follow-up care instructions for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.
- Conducted pulmonary function tests to accurately diagnose lung diseases, facilitating appropriate treatment interventions.
- Optimized airway management by skillfully performing endotracheal intubations under challenging circumstances.
- Developed strong relationships with referring physicians by providing timely communication regarding patient progress and updates on therapy effectiveness.
- Contributed to improved patient satisfaction scores by delivering compassionate and empathetic care throughout the treatment process.
- Promoted a positive workplace culture through active participation in department meetings, committees, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Implemented infection control measures within the facility to minimize risks associated with airborne pathogens.
- Coordinated with case managers, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to address psychosocial factors impacting respiratory health.
- Managed and operated mechanical ventilators to deliver airway management.
- Collaborated with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient treatment plans.
- Educated patients and families on proper use of respiratory equipment and techniques for managing respiratory disorders to improve patient outcomes.
- Administered oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy and inhalation therapy to improve patients' breathing and lung function.
- Delivered treatment for patients experiencing chronic and acute respiratory illnesses by conducting assessments and providing diagnoses.
- 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.
- Aided physicians with various procedures such as bronchoscopies, ventilator management, and intubations.
- Cooperated and communicated with physicians to deliver patient satisfaction and meet compliance with set standards.
- Maintained accurate patient records to track patients' medical history and treatment plans.
- Monitored patient's physiological responses to therapy such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes.
- Completed continued education units annually to stay current with respiratory therapy advancements and maintain compliance with administrative regulations.
- Responded to emergency codes and calls during off-hours and immediately initiated treatment.
- Maintained patient charts and information, strictly adhering to HIPAA laws and privacy guidelines.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Provided comprehensive care to improve and strengthen clients' respiratory functions.
- Evaluated care policies using patient records and current research findings to develop better treatment.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Respiratory Therapy Technology
Piedmont Technical College
Greenwood, SC08.2013
Skills
- Caring Bedside Manner and Patient Advocacy
- Patient Advocacy and Professional Bedside Manner
- Treatment Administration and Treatment Plan Development
- Strong Clinical Judgment and Physical assessments
- Airway Management and Tracheostomy Care
- Emergency medical care
- Medication Administration
- Respiratory equipment setup
- Pediatric Respiratory Care
- Neonatal intensive care
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
- Analytical Thinking, Decision-Making, Goal Setting
Certification
- RRT - Registered Respiratory Therapy
Timeline
Respiratory Therapist
Prisma Health Richland
2013.10 - 2024.02
Associate of Applied Science - Respiratory Therapy Technology
Piedmont Technical College
- RRT - Registered Respiratory Therapy
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