Respiratory Therapist

Purpose of Position Responsible for all Respiratory medications and treatments, vent set up and monitoring.Description Must be courteous to patients, visitors, physicians, volunteers, and other employees of the organization. Has a working knowledge of monitors used on the units. Evaluates lab results. Collaborates with physicians. Preps patients for procedures. Collection of sputum Spec for culture. Identifies acute and chronic cardiopulmonary dysfunction. Maintains, monitors and adjusts mechanical lung ventilators to assure proper function. Determines the following parameters of ventilator, gas exchange, respiratory rate, tidal and minute volume and ventilation, dead space ventilation, AaDO2 gradient, intra pulmonary shunt fraction, respiratory mechanics including total resistance and static and dynamic compliance, hemodynamic variables that interpret and utilize the values of pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary wedge pressure cardiac output, vascular resistance, and ventricular stroke volume in the assessment and care of the cardiopulmonary patients. Performs phlebotomy, EKG, Venipuncture for IV starts. Manipulates and utilize indwelling catheters. Performs arterial puncture. Capable of independent function in the preparation of exercise tolerance testing, Holter monitor analysis and pneumograms. Assists Physicians with the performance of cardiac exercise testing, thallium exercise testing, the insertion of pacer wires and generator. Ability to set up and perform analysis with a microprocessor of Holter Monitor reports, this requires a working knowledge of advance arrhythmias and basic computer skills. Performs pulmonary function testing including volume determination and diffusion capacity. Utilizes computer programs for analysis of wave forms, interpretation of tests and calibration of equipment. Has the ability to discuss test results with patients and physicians. Responsible for the secure taping of all endotracheal tubes, shares a responsibility with nursing for observation and correction of any artificial airways. Performs efficacious and atraumatic nasotracheal, endotracheal or tracheostomy suctioning. Knowledge of multiple suction systems, central piping, portable and ambulance transport systems. Assesses and maintains alternative systems for patient safety. Maintain positive communication with co-workers and the public. Understands the need for tact and medical ethics. Practices universal precautions. Does not perform procedures beyond the scope of training. Performs related duties as required. Must wear facility provided identification badge. Other duties may be assigned. Qualifications Must have current Mass. R.T. License Over one year acute care experience preferred. Current BLS.

Created: 2025-09-06