Respiratory Therapist

Evaluates patient and recommends a treatment plan.

Explains purpose and procedure of treatments, tests, and equipment to the patients, and provides necessary education upon discharging to home.

Treatment Administration

• Operates various ventilatory equipment, both invasive and non-invasive, various oxygen and aerosol devices, and various nebulizer devices to administer prescribed medications, humidification, ventilation and oxygenation to the patient.
• Performs chest physiotherapy using various equipment to promote secretion clearance.
• Suctioning of the patient by various methods (oropharyngeal, nasal and tracheal).
• Oximetry and capnography monitoring according to policy.
• Performs routine review of patient's chest x-rays to determine need for further evaluation.
• Performs 12-Lead EKG and basic arrhythmia recognition.
• Performs pulmonary function studies according to policy (i.e. NIF, VC etc.).
• Aids with procedures relating to respiratory care according to policy (i.e. Bronchoscopy, Perc Trachs, Chest Tube placement, etc.), where applicable.
• Drainage of chest via PleurX catheter or similar device where applicable.
• Tracheostomy care according to policy, including insertion and removal of tracheostomy tubes (emergent and non-emergent).
• Adequate drainage of chest via PleurX catheter or similar device where applicable.
• Insertion and removal of endotracheal tubes via free hand technique and/or video laryngoscope system, where applicable.
• Records all pertinent information of treatments, and patient response to treatments on respiratory care records and patient chart (including pre and post-assessment according to policy).
• Communicates with attending and pulmonary physician's concerning the efficiency of therapy administered to the patient.

Technical Skills

• BLS certification required.
• Current state licensure required.
• ACLS required within 6 months of hire. (Agency RT must have ACLS upon first shift, PRN staff must have ACLS upon hire).

Preferred Qualifications

• Must possess “Active” credential from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) or state equivalent; RRT preferred.
• One (1) year of related experience preferred.