Oswego Health Promotes Melissa Purtell, RN, BSN, MSN to VP of Nursing Operations

Since becoming a registered nurse in 1991, Purtell has spent her career in the nonprofit healthcare system.  She’s worn many hats, from Intensive Care Unit staff educator to Director of Intensive Care in 2010; Director of Intensive Care, Ambulatory Surgery, Post Anesthesia Care, and Pre-Admission Testing Units in 2017 to her most recent title in 2019 as Director of Nursing.

Purtell graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in nursing management and organizational leadership from the American Sentinel University in 2020 and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2014.

In this critical nursing leadership role as VP of Nursing Operations, Purtell will partner with Oswego Health’s executive team to provide comprehensive operational leadership and strategic clinical guidance. Her role will be pivotal in ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality care, operational efficiency, and financial stability throughout the nursing division, which consists of Medical-Surgical, Intensive Care, Emergency Department, OR/ASU/PACU, Women’s Services, Inpatient Mental Health, Clinical Supervision, Nurse Education, and Respiratory Therapy. Leveraging her 32 years of nursing expertise, Purtell will champion strategic initiatives, enhance clinical operations, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

“Missy has been instrumental in managing and leading our nursing team at Oswego Hospital,” shared Katie Pagliaroli, MS, BSN, RN, SVP of Clinical Operations & CNO. “Her dedication and commitment to the profession of nursing and patient-centered care is truly remarkable and we are very fortunate to have her at Oswego Health.”