Pulmonary Services

Under the general direction of the Respiratory Therapy Supervisor, the Respiratory Therapist renders highly professional and technical care to patients requiring specialized respiratory care interventions. He/She collaborates with patients, families, peers, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team in the delivery of healthcare services to a specific patient population. The Respiratory Therapist assesses patient needs, develops/contributes to plan of care, implements, and evaluates effectiveness of the respiratory regimens in accordance with the patient's needs and documents such in the medical record. Care is based on age appropriate knowledge, hospital, nursing, and Respiratory Care policies/procedures and professional standards. The Respiratory Therapist effectively communicates fundamental patient/family information to health care team members and solicits feedback from other members of the healthcare team. Identifies and considers physical, psychosocial, cultural, spiritual, and environmental needs in an effort to promote dignity and healing.- Includes but is not limited to obtaining and analyzing physiologic specimens, interprets physiological data and performs tests and studies of the cardiopulmonary system. Documents and reports results appropriately.-Includes but is not limited to the application and monitoring of medical gases and environmental control systems, mechanical ventilator support, airway management of natural and/or artificial airway, bronchopulmonary hygiene, pharmacological agents related to respiratory care procedures, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and hemodynamic cardiovascular support.-Focus of family and patient education activities to promote knowledge of disease process, medical therapy, and self help.-Maintain current knowledge and competency in the practice of Respiratory Care, participate in the mentoring/orientation of staff. Considers factors related to safety, cost, and impact, in planning the delivery of care.