Respiratory Therapist

The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) shall provide all aspects of respiratory care under the guidance of a qualified physician and the Director of Respiratory Therapy.

• Is able to work unsupervised and, when needed, can assist with duties of the Director, specifically in the absence of the Director of Respiratory Therapy.
• Is able to effectively administer oxygen mixtures utilizing various oxygen delivery devices. Can set up, initiate and maintain ventilators and CPAP devices.
• Is familiar with the principles of airway maintenance, endotracheal and tracheostomy care. Follows the procedures and observations for care during and after extubation.
• Initiates and maintains cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other related life support procedures.
• Confers with physicians regarding all aspects of Respiratory Therapy concerning patient care.
• Administers specific dosages of all Respiratory Therapy related medications as specified by a physician. Recognizes, interprets, and records signs and symptoms of medication side effects particularly those that require notification of a physician.
• Effectively and safely uses equipment for delivering positive pressure, humidification, nebulization, and medications to patients.
• Effectively utilizes methods that assist in the removal of secretions from the bronchial tree such as, hydration, breathing and coughing exercise, postural drainage, chest percussion and airway suctioning.
• Performs all aspects of pulmonary function testing, if trained. Effectively uses all department pulmonary function equipment.
• Performs 12 lead EKG’s and prepares them for physician interpretation.
• When needed is capable of overseeing the work of the certified and non-certified technicians who are performing those procedures requiring a high level of expertise.
• Is able to dismantle and reassemble most of the Respiratory Therapy equipment. Is able to take all necessary precautions to insure the safe handling of all respiratory equipment.
• Works well with each age level of patient. Is sensitive to the age specific needs of each individual patient and alters the clinical approach accordingly.
• Participates in the department’s continuing education programs.
• Actively participates in Performance Improvement Processes.
• Interprets and carries out physician orders accurately and in a timely manner.
• Able to allay anxieties of patient/families regarding respiratory/cardiac procedures.
• Works with other departments to insure appropriate and efficient service to patients.
• The Carle Experience/Core Values – Practices the WAY TO BE standards and related MUST-HAVES in his/her daily work. Is approachable, respectful, professional, the solution and a team player in his/her actions and words as an ambassador for the hospital and Carle Health System. Adheres to and demonstrates CRMH Core Values in all job responsibilities.