Respiratory Therapist

A registered respiratory therapist (RRT) may be required to deliver respiratory care services to patients in all areas of the hospital (e.g., intensive care units, medical and surgical floors, emergency departments, post-anesthesia care units, infant nurseries, and the home care environment). The therapist must be able to adapt to the particular area of duty assigned and must be able to perform special duties required by the assignment. Specific therapists are also trained to provide respiratory therapy services outside of the hospital setting during critical care patient transports. The RRT may be required to supervise and be responsible for the work of other respiratory care practitioners. The therapist may also be assigned orientation and in-service education responsibilities as well as be asked to function in the role of mentor for students of respiratory therapy participating in clinical rotations at Children's of Alabama. The RRT works under the technical supervision and clinical guidance of the Respiratory Care Clinical Coordinators. Direct administrative supervision is provided by the area Respiratory Care Manager and the Respiratory Care Department Head. The RRT carries out assigned duties and responsibilities according to policies, procedures, and guidelines approved by the Medical Directors of the department. Standards of performance for the area to which the individual is assigned must be maintained.