Cardiopulmonary
Director of
Respiratory/Cardiopulmonary Services:
Aleesta Weeks, RRT
Contact
Information:850-547-8187
FAX: 850-547-8189
Respiratory therapists, also known as respiratory care practioners, provide treatment, evaluation, monitoring and management of patients with breathing disorders or cardiovascular problems. All of the respiratory therapist employed at Doctors Memorial Hospital are licensed by the state of Florida and are required to obtain 24 hours of continuing education every two years with their license renewal.
For most of us breathing is easy - we don't think about it. For some, however, breathing is a struggle. Those who struggle, including accident victims, heart attack and stroke victims and people with asthma or emphysema, rely on Respiratory Services. Respiratory Therapists assist physicians with the diagnosis and treatment of lung and breathing disorders. Respiratory Services are provided in all care units at Doctors Memorial Hospital 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and include the following:
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Oxygen Therapy
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Periodic and Continuous Aerosol Therapy
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Incentive Spirometry
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Breathing exercises
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Chest Physiotherapy
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Sputum Induction and/or collection
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Mechanical Ventilation
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Pulse Oximetry
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Arterial Blood Gas
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Intubations
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Extubation
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Nasotracheal, Endotracheal, and Tracheostomy tube suctioning
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Electrocardiograph
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Pulmonary Function Testing
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Electroencephalograph
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BIPAP/CPAP
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Tracheostomy care and teaching
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Arterial Line insertion and monitoring
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Patient education regarding all aspects of respiratory care