Travel Respiratory Therapist - Neuro Diagnostics

Patient Assessment and Evaluation:

• Assess and monitor patients’ respiratory status, including performing tests such as arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, spirometry, and pulmonary function tests.
• Obtain and analyze patient histories related to respiratory conditions and symptoms.
• Evaluate physical exams, including checking lung sounds, oxygen saturation levels, and signs of respiratory distress.
• Develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on clinical findings in collaboration with physicians.

Respiratory Therapy Treatment:

• Administer therapeutic treatments to patients, including oxygen therapy, nebulized medications, and inhaled corticosteroids.
• Manage and operate respiratory equipment, such as ventilators, CPAP/BiPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and suction devices.
• Assist in the administration of mechanical ventilation, ensuring proper settings and patient comfort.
• Provide care for patients requiring advanced therapies, including tracheostomy care, endotracheal intubation, and artificial airway management.

Ventilator Management:

• Set up and monitor mechanical ventilators, adjusting settings based on patient condition and physician orders.
• Assist in weaning patients off ventilators and provide support during the transition from mechanical to spontaneous breathing.
• Troubleshoot issues with ventilators or other respiratory equipment and adjust settings as necessary.

Patient Education and Support:

• Educate patients and their families on respiratory care techniques, such as the proper use of inhalers, nebulizers, and home oxygen therapy.
• Provide guidance on managing chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis.
• Offer advice on lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation programs and techniques for improving respiratory function.

Emergency and Critical Care:

• Provide emergency care for patients experiencing respiratory distress or failure, including intubation, rescue breathing, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Respond to emergency situations, including code blue calls, ensuring the rapid assessment and stabilization of respiratory function.
• Administer and monitor invasive and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (e.g., BiPAP, CPAP) for patients in critical care settings.

Diagnostic Testing and Interpretation:

• Perform diagnostic procedures such as spirometry, pulmonary function tests, peak flow monitoring, and oxygen titration to evaluate lung function and diagnose conditions.
• Analyze blood gas results, adjust treatment protocols, and collaborate with physicians to determine treatment options.
• Assist with sleep studies and other assessments to diagnose conditions like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.

Collaboration with Healthcare Team:

• Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement respiratory care plans.
• Attend patient care rounds and contribute insights on respiratory care strategies and patient progress.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care teams to coordinate care for patients with complex medical conditions.

Patient Monitoring and Documentation:

• Continuously monitor patients' respiratory status, adjusting therapy and equipment as needed based on patient response.
• Record and document all treatments, patient responses, and changes in status in accordance with healthcare facility standards.
• Ensure accurate documentation of ventilator settings, medication administration, and any changes in patient condition.

Quality Control and Infection Control:

• Ensure respiratory equipment is properly cleaned, maintained, and sterilized to prevent infections.
• Follow infection control guidelines and take precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.
• Adhere to safety protocols and regulatory requirements in the use of respiratory therapy equipment.