Position Summary                                      The Respiratory Therapist provides all aspects of respiratory therapy to both in-patients and outpatients. They will collaborate with patients, family/significant others, peers, physicians and other members of the healthcare team. The Respiratory Therapist assesses patient’s respiratory needs, plans care, implements and evaluates respiratory therapy in accordance with hospital philosophy, policies/procedures and standards.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities Includes the Following:     

1. Understands and adheres to the WPH Performance Standards, Policies and Behaviors
2. Initiation and monitoring of mechanical ventilation; invasive and non-invasive.
3. Conducts various types of breathing therapy and patient assessment.
4. Performs postural drainage, percussion and bronchial hygiene techniques.
5. Performs bedside pulmonary function.
6. Carries out blood gas puncture and analysis, blood gas analyzer operator maintenance and quality control.
7. Responds to cardiac arrest and Rapid Response situations. Performs CPR.
8. After demonstrating competency will be certified in emergency endotracheal intubation of adult patients.
9. Performs all other related duties as assigned

 Education & Experience Requirements                 

• Must be a graduate of an approved program of Respiratory Therapy.
• Must hold a current and valid New York State Respiratory Therapy license. Credentialed as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
• Must hold a current BLS/CPR certification.
• NRP and ACLS are strongly recommended