JOB SUMMARY:

Our Respiratory Therapist’s role consists of basic in-patient floor therapy including BIPAP/CPAP and high flow oxygen therapy. Emergency care with ventilator management and ABG collection with analyzation. Cardiac and Pulmonary Diagnostic testing and Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates Degree in Respiratory Therapy

• Registered Respiratory Therapist

• BLS Certification

• ACLS Certification

  JOB SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Sets up and operates various types of oxygen and other therapeutic gas and mist inhalation such as masks, cannulas, nebulizers, BiPAP/CPAP, and ventilators to administer prescribed doses of medicinal gases and aerosolized drugs to hospitalized patients.

• Reads prescriptions prepared by physicians to determine requirements for treatment, such as type and duration of therapy and medication and dosages. Determines most suitable method of administering inhalants, precautions to be observed, and modifications which may be necessary to work procedures that will be compatible with physician’s orders. Examines patient’s band and charge to verify identity.

• Gathers material and equipment required for therapy and transports them to patients’ bedside. Explains treatment and breathing procedures to allay fear and to elicit cooperation during therapy.

• Places and fits face mask onto patient, arranges hood, or position of cannula/mask. Prepares medications according to prescription and adds to equipment. Turns equipment controls to regulate pressure of oxygen or other inhalants.

• Observes patient during therapy to instruct in breath control. Notifies physician of any adverse reaction. Reads equipment gauges to insure that specified pressures are being maintained.

• May operate ventilator or CPAP/BiPAP. Breathing machine to deliver medicinal gases and drugs in aerosolized mist concentration to patients’ respiratory system.

• Prepares and maintains a chart for each patient containing all pertinent information such as name, room number, type of administering apparatus used, and concentration administered. Makes out charge slips for inhalants, equipment used, and special services rendered, using rates list and submit to financial management for inclusion on patients’ account.

• Inspects and tests all inhalation therapy equipment to insure proper operating condition. Disassembles, cleans, and sterilizes equipment using hand tools, towels, soap, water and disinfectants to prepare equipment for reuse.

• Attends classroom and on-the-job in-services in respiratory therapy demonstrating the use of equipment and discussing new developments.

• Reinforces safety rules, making sure that hospital, patients, and visitors are notified about precautions.

• Performs procedure for holter monitors, stress testing, BAT testing, and pulmonary function testing, including recording and preparation of documentation for interpretation.

• Demonstrate appropriateness in meeting objectives in age-specifics.