Memorial Heroes: Isabel Olave, Respiratory Therapist Supervisor
August 14, 2020
What is your official title?
Respiratory Therapist Supervisor, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS
How long have you worked here at Memorial Medical Center?
9 months
How did you come into this position?
I came into this position with 8 years of experience as a Respiratory Therapist from a level one trauma center, as well as charge/relief-supervisor experience.
Memorial Medical Center is my community hospital. I have lived in the area for 17 years and I always wanted to make MMC my home and use my learned skills here to help our community.
What was your motivation for a career in Healthcare?
Knowing I can help at least one person breathe better, keeps me motivated to do the best for all my patients.
What is a typical day like for you?
Respiratory Care is a busy profession. We take care of patients from premature birth to geriatrics. While most of my time is spent giving scheduled respiratory therapy and checking on the patients in the intensive units, Respiratory Tech’s (RT) always respond to all emergency situations throughout the hospital. We can never predict how a shift will go, but you can always count on the Respiratory Therapists to be there when someone is not breathing. That is the beauty of being an RT.
How would you describe your role’s responsibilities?
As a Respiratory Therapist and Supervisor, I feel very responsible for every patient in this hospital. Every single patient here at Memorial is important, my team and I always strive to help everyone breathe easier.
In what areas do you help patients?
All areas of the hospital.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
I have 3 wonderful kids who keep me on my toes. We do outdoor activities such as hiking, playing in our yard or simply watching movies at home. Family time is the most important thing for me outside of work.
What is your favorite part about working for Memorial Medical Center?
I love the small community feel and the family environment here at MMC.