Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapists specialize in the delivery, maintenance and monitoring of respiratory care equipment and treatment modalities in accordance with current federal, state and local standards, guidelines and regulations. They administer therapy under physicians orders and according to professional standards of practice.Duties and ResponsibilitiesAdministrative FunctionsDemonstrates competency of all equipment, procedures and tasks as outlined in the Respiratory Department orientation verification form.Participates in shift report and familiarizes self with each resident''s plan of care.Performs assessment of each assigned resident and communicates pertinent information to department director and appropriate interdisciplinary team member.Coordinates respiratory services with other resident services to ensure the continuity of the resident''s total plan of care.Identifies and transports appropriate ventilator dependent residents to the shower room, rehab and recreation therapy programs.Upon notification of new admissions, ensures that the room is set-up with all essential equipment and greets the new resident on arrival.Ensures all EMAR documentation is complete via SigmaCare including: order entry, order reconciliation, shift documentation.Monitors resident''s supply of respiratory medications and re-orders as needed.Checks emergency equipment carts (crash carts) as assigned completes check-off sheet and replaces equipment as municates effectively with other disciplines regarding resident''s condition; promotes team effort as changes occur in the resident''s plan of care.Demonstrates knowledge of and respect for the rights, dignity, privacy and individuality of each resident in all interactions. Understands the resident''s right to participate in and the right to refuse treatment.Demonstrates appropriate interpersonal skills when interacting with coworkers, interdisciplinary team members, residents and families.Performs equipment changes per department policy. Labels all new equipment with change date.Maintains respiratory care work areas, including resident rooms, in a clean, sanitary and orderly manner that respects the room as the resident''s home.Participates in discharge planning for appropriate residents; when assigned by the department director, teaches resident/family tasks defined by the plan.Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections by following AristaCare hand washing guidelines. Understands standard precautions; wears personal protective equipment as indicated.Attends scheduled staff meetings including respiratory department meetings and Meadow Springs All staff meetings.Assumes responsibility for self-development and growth. Maintains the required bi-annual CEU''s as mandated by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Maintains current certification for Basic Cardiac Life Support.Participates in in-service education by providing orientation of respiratory department services and procedures for nurses, aids and respiratory therapists.Gives in-services to other members of the interdisciplinary team.Performs other duties as assigned by the department director.Actively promotes an atmosphere of teamwork and cooperation within the department. Willingly accepts work assignments and adjusts schedule to the needs of the department.Acts as a representative of AristaCare by offering customer service to all by demonstrating effective communication, responsiveness, and sensitivity to others.Identifies, addresses and resolves issues with co-workers to improve relationships. Promotes interdisciplinary teamwork.Assist in the development and maintenance of an effective orientation program for new Respiratory Services personnel.EducationMinimum of an Associates Degree or Bachelor Degree from an accredited program.Current active license as Respiratory Care Practitioner in Pennsylvania.ExperienceLong-term care experience with ventilator dependent individuals preferred.Powered by JazzHR

Created: 2025-11-15