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Respiratory Therapist
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Based on New York data
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What they do
A Respiratory Therapist assists patients who have trouble breathing because of a chronic respiratory illness, trauma, or other conditions. Administers tests to diagnose breathing problems, performs treatments to help patients breathe easier, or sets up breathing equipment such as ventilators. Works closely with physicians and other healthcare workers, and may also assist in providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, drowning, or shock. Works in hospitals; may also provide care and counseling to patients in their homes.
$81,182 / year median in New York
+16% projected growth
Job Description
RESPONSIBILITIES
Reviews and evaluates existing data in the patient record including patient history, physical exam, current vital signs, admission and current respiratory care orders for each patient assigned. Reviews and evaluates other pertinent data, such as blood gas and other laboratory results, hemodynamic monitoring, electrocardiogram, and radiology study reports, specific to each patient assigned. Advises providers on appropriate respiratory care procedure and techniques for a given patient care situation. Selects, assembles, and checks respiratory care equipment for proper function, operation, and cleanliness. Recommends, conducts and documents prescribed therapeutic procedure of all types, including medication administration, airway care, bronchial hygiene, oxygen and aerosol therapy, ventilator support, and monitoring and diagnostic procedures. Monitors and documents all pertinent clinical parameters and assessments on all assigned patients according to departmental policies and procedures. Modifies treatment techniques based on patient response. Provides and documents patient education for therapeutic procedures performed. Initiates and updates respiratory care plan for all patients per department policy and procedure as applicable. Works collaboratively with other members of the health care team to implement the plan of care. Maintains ACLS certification and initiates optimum emergency resuscitation procedures. Communicates information regarding patient's clinical status to appropriate members of health care team according to departmental policies and procedures. Participates in the instruction and orientation of Respiratory Care team members, students, and other allied health professionals in methods of administration of respiratory care. Performs other duties as assigned.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in Respiratory Care or equivalent certificate. New York State Respiratory Therapist (RT) license with current registration, including credentials received prior to 9/1993 OR New York State Respiratory Therapy Technician (RTT) license AND National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) active credentials as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). ACLS certification (current) required within one year of hire. Respiratory therapists employed in non-acute (Pulmonary or Long Term Care) areas are excluded from the ACLS requirement.EDUCATION
AS:
Respiratory Therapy (Required)LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS
ACLS- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support
- American Heart Association (AHA)American Heart Association (AHA), RT
- Respiratory Therapist
- New York State Education Department (NYSED)New York State Education Department (NYSED)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
M- Medium Work
- Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.
PAY RANGE
$36.77- $48.