Resp Therapist-Reg

Administers and instructs all phases of respiratory therapy including mechanical ventilation to neonatal, pediatric, and critical care patients. Performs emergency procedures such as cardiac and pulmonary resuscitation and airway maintenance. Transports patients receiving oxygen and mechanical ventilation. Participates in quality assessment and continuous quality improvement activities. Complies with all appropriate safety and infection control standards. Performs all job duties and responsibilities in a courteous and customer-focused manner according to the Hurley Family Standards of Behavior. Works under the supervision of a Respiratory Therapy Supervisor or designee who assigns and inspects work for conformance with policies, procedures, and standards.

1. Administers respiratory therapy and ventilator care to Medical Center patients including those in critical care units. Observes and records patient symptoms and reactions to therapy. Reports to physician regarding patient. Makes appropriate adjustments.


2. Proceeds with respiratory care based on patient assessment, analysis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.


3. Participates as functioning member of cardiac arrest team. Answers respiratory distress and STAT treatment calls.


4. Samples blood gases and assists in interpretation. Performs pulmonary function tests. Provides end tidal CO2 and bicore measurements. Provides, and may instruct in, proper tracheal suctioning and airway maintenance.


5. Sets up, adjusts, and regularly monitors all types of conventional mechanical ventilation, high frequency ventilation, and BiPAP and CPAP units.


6. Transports patients receiving oxygen and mechanical ventilation with portable oxygen, ventilators, and hand-operated ventilation devices. Lifts, turns, moves, and transports patients using wheelchairs, stretchers, etc. using appropriate techniques as instructed/assigned.


7. Cleans, maintains, and monitors all types of respiratory therapy equipment. Performs minor repairs when necessary.


8. Instructs students, patients, medical staff, and other personnel in respiratory therapy techniques. Orients medical staff to the availability and functionality of respiratory therapy equipment. Routinely performs patient education, documenting teaching in multidisciplinary patient tracking record.


9. Assists physicians with bronchoscopies and management of short- and long-term ventilator patients.


10. Assists in evaluation, planning, and implementation of new products and techniques.


11. Represents respiratory therapy in multidisciplinary meetings. Works cooperatively and collectively with all members of health team.


12. Demonstrates effective judgment and ability to understand, react competently, and treat (if appropriate) unique needs of patient age groups served.


13. May act as team leader in absence of shift supervisor.