Respiratory care clinics of North America
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Respiratory care (RC) protocols are widely regarded as the most appropriate method for properly allocating and delivering most forms of respiratory therapy. The use of protocols has increased steadily over the past 15 years, but, despite the successes and modest implementation of RC protocols across the country, there is room for improvement in adopting RC protocols for the effective use of respiratory care services. It also seems that many physicians have yet to be won over, and RC managers need to take the first step toward protocol development and implementation. This article addresses some of the issues surrounding the development of respiratory care protocols and the impact that their implementation may have based on experience gained to date.
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Capital equipment and technology administration, as outlined in this article, is one of many responsibilities for managers of respiratory care. Planning for 1, 5, and 10 years, strategic budgeting, and systematic evaluation of existing and future devices will assist in creating a successful equipment and technology program. A successful capital equipment and technology program will enable respiratory care practitioners to treat patients effectively with the proper tools for success.
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Respir Care Clin N Am · Jun 2004
ReviewPractitioner competency assessment and career ladders as a recruiting and retention tool.
The assessment of competency for respiratory care practitioners involves a thorough understanding of what defines competence, the development of a well-planned, continuous process that starts with new employee orientation, and a clearly communicated set of staff expectations. Career ladders are a tool that can be used to aid staff retention and recruitment, thereby reducing multiple costs associated with a high employee turnover rate, and to encourage professional development and accountability while achieving important departmental objectives.