The Respiratory Therapist evaluates, treats, and cares for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. This position practices under the direction of a physician. The position provides bedside respiratory care to patients as assigned by supervisors and given on the physician's written order for both in house and out patient care.
Responsible for the safe and effective administration of medically prescribed medications, knowing their indications and contraindications.
Knows and follows the indications and contraindications, the policy and procedures in administering therapeutic modalities to include: Small Volume Nebulizer (SVN), Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI, Invasive and non-invasive Ventilator Management, , Oxygen Therapy, Lung volume expansion protocols, ventilator weaning protocols.
Performs arterial punctures using radial, brachial, and femoral sites independently. Draws off arterial lines to obtain sample for blood gas analysis.
Performs all aspects of artificial airway care.
Sets up and maintenance of infant oxygen devices, and mechanical ventilators.
Familiar with oxygen delivery systems (i.e., nasal, Heated High Flow Nasal Canulas, venuturi mask, Heated tracheostomy masks).
Responsible for the set up, safety check, monitoring, and troubleshooting of mechanical ventilators
Maintains accurate and legible records, documenting clinical notes in patient’s charts.
Participates in reporting patient progress, and prioritizing patient condition to the next shift.
Be a member of the "code team" responding to arrest situations and CAT calls.
Maintains current knowledge/certification/licensure.
