In House Registry - Respiratory Therapy for Special Needs Children - Children's Habilitation Center

We are a proven pioneer in ventilator care and weaning. Overseen by a pediatric pulmonologist who works closely with on-site respiratory therapists CHC is staffed 24 hours a day by many licensed respiratory therapists. In August 2009, Children's Habilitation Center improved upon an innovative weaning program aimed at successfully reducing the number of ventilator-dependent residents within the facility. Since its inception, the program has identified 12 potential residents for this process. The results have been extraordinary. As children are admitted and assessed at CHC, they are identified as potential candidates for ventilator weaning. The Respiratory Therapy staff then works with a comprehensive team comprised of pediatricians, a pediatric pulmonologist, an advanced practice nurse, nurses and physical therapists to determine a schedule for the process. An individualized weaning calendar is developed for each child. The program is dynamic and adjusts as necessary throughout the weaning process.

Of the 12 residents identified as potential candidates, 8 have been totally weaned from mechanical ventilation, and 3 have been able to be discharged to a home setting. The success of this program has been life-changing for several of the children and their families due to their improved quality of life. Given the success of this program, we are receiving children earlier and earlier from hospital NICUs and PICUs.

The Pediatric Ventilator Weaning Program is now available to any child who comes to CHC mechanically ventilated.

If you choose a Career at CHC, you will Administer adequate ventilation and oxygenation using proper respiratory equipment as prescribed. Operate and maintain equipment that administers oxygen or assists with breathing. Administer aerosol therapy and humidification as prescribed. Assess the respiratory status of patients and communicate the same to the Charge Nurse. Assure patient respiratory needs are met, i.e. CPT, postural drainage, and suctioning. Participates in physician rounds as assigned. Monitor the patient's oxygen status daily. While clearing vent setting changes with our charge nurses and medical director. Document all services/treatments and patient care activities per CHC policy. Respond to Code Blue situations. Maintain equipment according to established infection control guidelines-monitor standing orders for oxygen for oxygen weaning, ETCO2, pulse oximetry, etc.