Respiratory Therapist

Evaluations and Treatment

• Recommends a treatment plan based on patient evaluations.
• Explains treatments, tests, and equipment to patients and provides necessary education upon discharge.

Treatment Administration

• Operates various ventilatory equipment, oxygen and aerosol devices, and nebulizer devices to administer prescribed medications, humidification, ventilation, and oxygenation to patients.
• Performs chest physiotherapy using various equipment to promote secretion clearance.
• Suctioning of the patient using oropharyngeal, nasal, and tracheal methods as needed.
• Maintains oximetry and capnography monitoring according to policy.
• Conducts 12-Lead EKG and basic arrhythmia recognition.
• Performs pulmonary function studies according to policy (e.g., NIF, VC).
• Assists with procedures such as bronchoscopy, perc trachs, chest tube placement, and tracheostomy care, as applicable.
• Drains the chest via PleurX catheter or similar device as needed.
• Inserts and removes tracheostomy tubes, both emergently and non-emergently.
• Performs arterial puncture according to policy and monitors, records, and reports test results.
• Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation according to BLS and ACLS guidelines.
• Inserts and removes endotracheal tubes via free hand technique or video laryngoscope system, as applicable.
• Records all pertinent information of treatments and patient responses on respiratory care records and patient charts (including pre and post-assessment according to policy).

Communication and Coordination

• Communicates with attending and pulmonary physicians regarding the efficiency of therapy administered to the patient.