At Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, we have a free-standing 49 bed subacute ventilator unit.  Respiratory therapists are on site 24 hours a day.  They are responsible for the daily care and management of all residents that require trach and ventilator care.  Under the supervision and direction of Pulmonoligst, Dr. Dew, our respiratory therapists may be able to successfully wean a resident from their mechanical ventilation and discharge residents to their homes.  Unfortunately, if weaning is not an option, our facility also cares for residents who are unable to wean.  We utilize passi-muir valves as tolerated for residents to communicate with staff, family, visitors, and other residents.  The passi-muir valve can also be used as a weaning device.  Respiratory therapy is also for ABG’s, bronchodialator therapy, routine and emergency tracheostomy changes, airway management, airway clearance, trach care, respiratory assessments, educational sessions for residents, families, and all staff.