The Registered Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing diagnostic
and therapeutic respiratory services to patients as prescribed by physicians,
and as regulated by the Massachusetts Board of Registration, standards of
practice of the American Association of Respiratory Care, and within the scope
of department and hospital policies and procedures. The therapist applie
cientific principles and a professional and collaborative approach to
optimizing the patients health and function. He/she assesses the patient
condition, participates in the formulation of the respiratory care plan, treat
and teaches the patient, and maintains appropriate records. Responsibilitie
include inservice/training, and participation in the management of mechanically
ventilated patients. Respiratory care services are provided to Newborn,
Adolescent, Adult, and Geriatric patients.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Interprets physicians orders.
• Reviews patient records.
• Evaluates patients and assesses appropriateness of therapy.
• Plans and administers patient care consistent with changes in patient needs and according to department policies and procedures.
• Performs diagnostic testing and monitoring.
• Participates in formulation, implementation, and modification of the respiratory care plan.
• Teaches patients proper breathing technique.
• Initiates mechanical ventilatory support.
• Participates in the plan and management of ventilator dependent patients.
• Adjusts and records ventilator parameters; maintains surveillance.
• Assist in planning and implementing the weaning process.
• Participates in patient care reviews and the Continuous Quality Improvement program.
• Organizes and presents inservice classes for the Respiratory Care Service.
• Participates in training respiratory care personnel and students; assists with implementation of new procedures and techniques.
• Participates in review and update of department policies and procedures.
• Responds as a member of the resuscitation team.
• Performs invasive procedures in compliance with department certification and safety standards.
• Maintains patient records of respiratory assessments and treatments; enters charges for therapy performed.
• Inspects and tests respiratory equipment to ensure proper and safe function.
• Understands importance of insuring patient and personal safety at all times.
• Has the physical capacity/ability to move patients and equipment as patient care needs dictate.

• Registered by the National Board of Respiratory Care.
• Current licensure as a Respiratory Care Practitioner in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• Evidence of continued education as required by the Board of Registration, Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• Demonstrated clinical competency equivalent to 3 year of critical care experience.
• CPR certification required (BLS).
• Knowledge of the special needs and behaviors of the infant, child, adolescent, adult, and older adult populations required.