Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory TherapistThe Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner (LRCP) is responsible for performing complex respiratory therapy procedures and to evaluate and assess the patient's need for therapy.Essential Functions The LRCP demonstrates the knowledge and skills needed to provide care appropriate to the age of the patient served on his/her assigned areas, including an understanding of the principles of growth and development over the life span. Assesses patient physical, psychological, social, spiritual, educational, developmental, cultural and discharge planning needs. Reviews patient history and physical with patient/family and assures completion within appropriate timeframe. Reviews available information obtained by other health care team members. Reviews diagnostics and laboratory data and reports abnormal results to the physician(s) and other appropriate caregivers. Completes respiratory assessment and reassessments according to patient need and as outlined in policy. Formulates a plan of care, including the discharge plan, utilizing assessment data and patient, family and health team input. Initiates a plan of care based on patient-specific needs, assessment data and the medical plan of care. Goals for patient are realistic, measurable and developed in conjunction with the patient/family. Considers the physical, cultural, psychosocial, spiritual, age specific and educational needs of the patient in the plan of are. Plans care in collaboration with members of the multidisciplinary team. Reviews and revises the respiratory plan of care to reflect changing patient needs based on evaluation of the patient's status. Implements the respiratory plan of care through direct patient care, coordination, delegation and supervision of the activities of the health care team. Provides care based on physician orders and the nursing plan of care, in compliance with policies and procedures, standards of care, and regulatory agency requirements. Promotes continuity of care by accurately and completely communicating to other caregivers the status of patients for whom care is provided. Evaluates the patient's and family's response to care and teaching, and revises the respiratory plan of care as needed. Evaluates patient progress towards goals and expected outcomes in collaboration with other health care team members. Evaluates patient's response and the effectiveness of patient teaching. Documents assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation in the patient record. Documentation is legible, timely and in accordance with policy. Documentation reflects objective/subjective data, respiratory interventions and patient's response to treatment. Notes physician orders accurately and in a timely manner. Provides care based on the best evidence available and may participate in research activities within clinical practice. Participates in unit or facility shared leadership. Interacts and participates in the education, role development, and orientation of facility personnel, patients, students, families and visitors. Promotes/supports growth of others through precepting and mentoring when appropriate. Contributes to society through activities that lead to excellent patient outcomes through timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and safe care. Actively participates in the improvement of national quality indicators and outcomes. Such activities may include participating in professional organizations.