DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Under the direction of a physician, has exclusive control of ordered mechanical ventilation. - Demonstrate knowledge of the weaning process. - Actively participate with physicians and other healthcare team members in the development of care plans by serving as consultants in regard to respiratory therapeutic and diagnostic modalities. - Evaluate and assess residents, recommend appropriate therapy when indicated, identify physicians\' orders and determine if there are any contraindications to therapy. - Evaluate effectiveness of respiratory care to include: initial assessment and reassessment of resident response to therapy, treatment effectiveness, monitoring of vital signs. This includes recognizing changes from norm for the age specific population served. - Perform diagnostic studies on residents to include: ABG acquisition and interpretation, nocturnal pulse oximetry, pulse oximetry with exercise and standard pulse oximetry. - Provide all forms of airway care to include: tracheostomy tube changes and trach care, suctioning, insertion of nasal and oral pharyngeal airways and evaluation of residents for artificial airway discontinuance. - Perform as a member of the cardiac arrest team to include Basic Life Support. Relates appropriate emergency protocols and maintains basic life support as necessary for appropriate resident population. - Support ventilation as needed during transports between rooms, to and from therapy or activities and to other hospitals or medical offices. - Administer all treatment modalities to include: facial/nasal CPAP, Bipap, chest physiotherapy, aerosol administration, in exsufflation and all forms of low and high flow oxygen therapies. - Assist in the education of all respiratory rehab residents and their families regarding respiratory and pulmonary disease management. - Provide daily maintenance, cleaning and monitoring of ventilators and adjunctive equipment to ensure that equipment is operable and in safe working condition. QUALIFICATIONS: - Must be a graduate of an accredited AMA program for Respiratory Therapy. - Must hold a current license as a Respiratory Therapist in Massachusetts. - Credential from the National Board of Respiratory Care. - Certified in CPR (Basic Life Support). - Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language. - Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action. - Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public. - Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, and be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level in which they are currently functioning. - Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace. - Must be able to move and assist with lifting and transport of residents. SALARY RANGE: \$35 - \$40 per hour based on experience. Experience Required - Must be a graduate of an accredited AMA program for Respiratory Therapist Licenses & Certifications Required - Respiratory Therapist