Article Library Video Library Definitions

Behind the Scenes of COVID-19: Respiratory Therapy Helps Patients Breathe Easier

Author

Lee Health

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Lee Health

Posted on

Apr 09, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

Email US

Click to Email Us

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Lee Health's care team has been on the front lines, using strict safety measures and passionate dedication to treat our community's sickest patients.
Besides physicians and nurses, Lee Health's COVID-19 team also includes other experts behind the scenes including certified nursing assistants, transporters, advanced providers and respiratory therapists.
We look for conditions like respiratory distress, wheezing, and cardiac arrest, said Kathy Mattozzi, lead respiratory therapist at Health Park Medical Center. Anything to do with the heart and lungs, were there.
From ventilators for use on sedated patients to breathing exercises on recovering patients who are about to leave the hospital, respiratory therapists are a pivotal part of the COVID-19 response.
They help patients who have any breathing disorders, including asthma, COPD, or emphysema, or those who need assistance breathing while sedated. We have direct patient contact, every day, Mattozzi said. In the ICU, we round with the doctors and learn about each patient. Taking an Active Role The RT team was a well-oiled machine, aiding the frailest cardiac, stroke and surgical patients until COVID-19 hit.
They regrouped and learned to work in a different way, with patients who are highly contagious and need special care. They exercise precautions but have become skilled in entering and exiting patient rooms with ease.
The first couple of weeks were stressful with so many unknowns, Mattozzi said. But its better now. Respiratory therapist Daniel Torres works three 12-hour shifts each week. He spends 15 minutes to several hours in each patient room. Some patients are alert and follow instructions. Others are unconscious. During a recent day he checked a bi-pap machine and gave a breathing treatment. Its rewarding when we see a patient improve, he said. We see it because we have such an active role. Watching someone walk out means a lot. I think everyone on the care team respects what we do. Nobody's Done Until Everybody's Done That care reaches all levels. Respiratory therapy assistant Robert Higginbotham spends his days collecting equipment that has been used and is ready for cleaning. He disinfects all pieces, wraps them in plastic and stores them in a safe room until the staff need them. Its nice to be part of this team, he said. I worked in transport and then came here. Ten years into the job, Higginbotham said he wouldn't change anything. Our director makes sure we have what we need and were safe. Patients, like those who spend most of their time unconscious, have little idea how pivotal the respiratory team is to their survival and recovery, but the therapists remain positive.
We know were an important part of the care team, Mattozzi said. We are like a family and everybody helps. If I need help, someone will come from another floor if I need it. Nobody's done until everybody's done.
Submitted and Written By: Lee Health - click here for more information

Behind the Scenes of COVID-19: Respiratory Therapy Helps Patients Breathe Easier

Other Articles You May Like

Holiday Visits: Prepare the Home, Protect Your Peace

A warm welcome doesn't require a perfect house. Whether family is coming for an afternoon or staying a few nights, a little planning now can make holiday gatherings more comfortable for everyone.1. Have the conversation earlyConfirm dates, overnight arrangements, food preferences, and any mobility needs. Let guests know what works for you, including visit length and quiet time.2. Create a comfortable place to landFresh linens, a clear bedside surface, and an easy-to-reach lamp can make a guest space feel welcoming. No guest room? Agree on sleeping arrangements ahead of time.3. Make movement easierClear hallways and stairs, secure or remove loose rugs, and check lighting between sleeping areas and bathrooms. Keep frequently used items within comfortable reach.4. Put safety before tidinessStore medications securely, especially when children are visiting. Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keep exits clear.5. Share the hostingInvite family to bring a dish, help with cleanup, or organize an activity. Keep meals simple and make room for breaks. Being together matters more than doing everything yourself.6. Make space for connectionSet out a few family photos, plan a favorite game, or ask guests to share a memory. Often, the simplest traditions are the ones everyone remembers.

Night of Wonder at The Ringling

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.Choosing a senior living community is an important life decision. But what happens between making that decision and feeling truly settled?At Silk Road Connection, we work directly for you and your family, providing personalized planning, professional coordination, and oversight of the many details involved in transitioning to senior living.Our goal is simple: Less stress for families. More time to enjoy what comes next.Founder-Directed Team DeliveredSchedule a complimentary consultation. [email protected] silkroadconnection.org

View Details

Lee Health - Transportation - Medical

Transportation-Medical , Fort Myers, Florida,

Lee Health is a leading healthcare provider in Southwest Florida, offering award-winning care and comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of our community. Our mission is to provide quality service with personal attention, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible care.At Lee Health, we understand that finding the right care can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a range of services, from in-person care to virtual visits, urgent care, and emergency care, to ensure that you can access the care you need, when you need it. Our team of experienced physicians and specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to each and every patient.In addition to our clinical services, Lee Health is committed to providing resources and support to our community. Through our learning center, blog, and webinars, we strive to educate and empower individuals to take control of their health and wellness.As part of our commitment to excellence, Lee Health is currently conducting an evaluation of our business structure to ensure that we are meeting the highest standards of quality and efficiency. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our services, find a doctor, and discover how Lee Health can help you and your family live healthier lives.

View Details