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SOC: 29-1126 |
Respiratory Therapists
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Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.
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Tasks: |
Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions occur. Set up and operate devices such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment. Work as part of a team of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties. Maintain charts that contain patients' pertinent identification and therapy information. Read prescription, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition. Relay blood analysis results to a physician. Inspect, clean, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently, ordering repairs when necessary. Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and allay fears. Make emergency visits to resolve equipment problems. Determine requirements for treatment, such as type, method and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, or medication and dosages, compatible with physicians' orders. Enforce safety rules and ensure careful adherence to physicians' orders.
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