Respiratory Therapist at CARLE

The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) shall provide all aspects of respiratory care under the guidance of a qualified physician and the Director of Respiratory Therapy.

• Effectively administer oxygen mixtures utilizing various oxygen delivery devices. Can set up, initiate and maintain ventilators and CPAP devices. Can assist with intubation.
• Is familiar with the principles of airway maintenance, endotracheal and tracheostomy care. Follows the procedures and observations for care during and after extubation.
• Initiates and maintains cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other related life support procedures.
• Confers with physicians regarding all aspects of Respiratory Therapy concerning patient care and interprets and carries out physician orders
• Administers specific dosages of all Respiratory Therapy related medications as specified by a physician.
• Recognizes, interprets, and records signs and symptoms of medication side effects, particularly those that require notification of a physician.
• Effectively and safely uses equipment for delivering positive pressure, humidification, nebulization, and medications to patients.
• Effectively utilizes methods that assist in the removal of secretions from the bronchial tree such as, hydration, breathing and coughing exercise, postural drainage, chest percussion and airway suctioning.
• Performs 12 lead EKG and prepares them for physician interpretation.
• Dismantle and reassemble most of the Respiratory Therapy equipment. Is able to take all necessary precautions to insure the safe handling of all respiratory equipment.
• Works well with each age level of patient. Is sensitive to the age specific needs of each individual patient and alters the clinical approach accordingly.
• Occasionally oversee the work of Non-Certified Technicians who are performing those procedures requiring a high level of expertise.
• Performs all aspects of pulmonary function testing, if trained. Effectively uses all department pulmonary function equipment.
• Is capable of working independently and can supervise the needs of their shifts when necessary.
• Performs Arterial punctures and arterial line draws in accordance with guidelines and competencies.
  • assessment of a patients respiratory status
  • able to set up BiPap and opiflow devices and evaluate patient response on the devices
  • educate patients on medications used for respiratory care