Respiratory Therapist

Position Summary

The licensed and credentialed Respiratory Therapist is responsible for performing duties and tasks of a respiratory care practitioner. Upon the request of the physician, the Respiratory Therapist sets up and operates various types of respiratory care equipment to be utilized in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disease and/or illness.

• Explain to the resident the purpose and procedure of treatments, tests and equipment.
• Use knowledge of growth and development principles to anticipate care needs of the resident in the adult and geriatric stages of development.
• Apply criteria for recognition of abuse and follow policy for making appropriate referral/intervention.
• Conduct physician‑prescribed daily use of ventilator machine, various oxygen devices, nebulizer and ultrasonic nebulizer, with respect to the resident’s respiratory system.
• Perform chest physical therapy treatments involving percussion, postural drainage, and suctioning to mobilize secretions and mucus in the lungs and to clear airway blockage.
• Perform setup, operation and monitoring of ventilator when resident’s respiratory system is incapable of adequate spontaneous ventilation.
• Ensure adequate maintenance of ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Perform pulmonary function studies to determine volume, distribution, and movement of air.
• Record all pertinent information of treatments and resident response in respiratory care records and resident chart.
• Maintain and record daily ventilator monitoring, internal and external battery logs, and ventilator weaning logs.
• Perform pulse oximetry; set up oxygen via nasal cannula and simple face mask.
• Assist resident with uncomplicated transfer in and out of bed.
• Report to relief personnel the condition of residents and treatments to be administered/conducted.
• Process respiratory therapy equipment – cleaning, sterilizing and packaging as required.
• Conduct regular rounds – checking residents’ oxygen equipment, replacing humidifiers as necessary, and spot‑checking other respiratory therapy equipment.
• Key information into computer systems, including EMR.
• Participate in the Hazardous Materials Program.
• Perform other functions as identified by the Director of Nursing and Clinical Nurse Manager.

• Demonstrate respect for the rights, dignity and individuality of each resident in all interactions.
• Appreciate the importance of maintaining confidentiality of resident and facility information.
• Demonstrate honesty and integrity at all times.
• Key information into computer systems accurately and efficiently.
• Provide care in emergency situations and follow established procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of, and implement resident care activities to promote, maintain, and/or restore health for assigned residents.
• Ensure privacy and dignity of residents in the provision of care.
• Use good oral and written communication skills with residents, families, physicians, and co‑workers.
• Prepare documentation timely, accurately, and thoroughly in a prescribed style and format.
• Interact with others with discretion, tact and diplomacy.
• Prioritize multiple assignments without sacrificing quality.
• Possess good judgment, organization, time‑management, and follow‑through skills.
• Adapt to changing environments and work well under pressure.
• Utilize organization and problem‑solving skills under pressure.
• Visual acuity required to observe details of instruments needed for life‑support.
• Be self‑initiated, highly motivated, and research available resources.
• Reflect a positive attitude, dependability, loyalty, discretion in confidentiality matters.
• Maintain a professional appearance regarding dress, grooming, etc.
• Present outcomes and recommendations in a professional manner.
• Perform other duties as…