Therapy - RRT

Respiratory TherapistThe certified respiratory therapist assesses, treats, and monitors patients with respiratory diseases and conditions. This includes the delivery of medicated and non-medicated therapy as ordered by the provider. Therapists provide invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilator support for acute respiratory failure. As part of patient assessment and management, the therapist performs diagnostic test procedures. Additionally, therapists assist in departmental operations by aiding quality improvement projects, equipment, and supplies. The certified therapist follows all applicable rules and regulations established by the licensure board.Job Responsibilities:35% Critical/Emergent Care: Responds to emergency situations throughout the facility, including code blue and rapid response situations. Provides patient support in high-risk delivery situations, including care of the compromised newborn. Manages airway care, including maintenance of endotracheal and tracheostomy tubes. Assesses and monitors patients on invasive and non-invasive ventilatory support, adjusting parameters as ordered. Performs and assists with advanced specialty procedures such as endotracheal tube insertion and bronchoscopy.30% General Care: Performs provider-prescribed medicated therapy including small volume nebulizer and meter dose inhaler. Administers therapeutic procedures such as chest physiotherapy and positive expiratory pressure. Provides oxygen therapy, adjusting as appropriate for patient needs and provider order. Completes patient assessments and provides recommendations to providers. Educates patients and significant others on therapy, respiratory disease, and medications.15% Diagnostic Procedures: Completes pulmonary function testing as ordered, maintaining national standards for testing procedures. Performs arterial and capillary blood gas sampling. Analyzes and interprets laboratory tests such as blood gases. Completes and documents oximetry studies.10% Communication: Documents patient assessment, therapy, and other pertinent patient information in the medical record. Verbally provides pertinent patient information to others for ongoing care. Provides education to peers and students. Participates in departmental meetings and quality improvement processes. Communicates with departmental leadership regarding concerns and events.10% Equipment and Supply Management: Cleans and prepares equipment for use, such as mechanical ventilators and therapeutic gas delivery devices. Ensures proper functioning of departmental analyzers. Evaluates and communicates equipment or supply needs.