Respiratory Therapist - ON CALL

PURPOSE:

To provide professional respiratory consultation, to organize and supervise in accordance with recognized techniques and established procedures.

POLICY:

The consulting respiratory therapist will oversee the needs of the hospital in regards to respiratory care whether inpatient or outpatient.

PROCEDURE:

1. The consulting respiratory therapist will orientate the facility staff in proper respiratory therapy procedures.
2. Will assist in the training and evaluation of new employees.
3. Will provide in-services on an ongoing basis as deemed necessary including but not limited to:

• Administration of aerosolized medication
• Performance of proper suctioning of patient airways
• Administration of oxygen/humidity therapy
• Performance of airway clearance techniques
• Transport of ventilated patients if indicated
• Performance of postural drainage
• Instruction in Intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPB)
• Operation of all equipment in accordance with hospital standards
• Instruction in appropriate equipment disinfection
• Instruction in pulmonary care procedures such hyperinflation therapy, tracheal suctioning, chest therapy, (hyper) humidity therapy and cough therapy

1. Participates in the Performance Improvement program.
2. Demonstrates the spirit of the philosophy, mission, and values of the hospital through words and actions and implements them into departmental processes, programs, and the working environment.
   1. Applies the principles and values of customer service and continuous quality improvement while performing day to day activities of the position.
   2. Maintains and protects confidentiality regarding all aspects of patient care, personnel and strategic issues. Adheres to Confidentiality Policy.
   3. Maintains positive working relationships and fosters cooperative work environment. Adheres to the hospital’s Guidelines for Appropriate Conduct in the HR Manual.
   4. Displays honesty and mutual respect when communicating with peers and other departments.
   5. Follows through on problems that may compromise effective job performance by using appropriate chain of command.
3. Utilize concepts of age/developmental stages in interactions with patients and families.