Day in the Life: Respiratory Therapist at North Shore University Hospital

Meet Lian Shanhai, who started her Northwell career journey in 2020 as a respiratory therapist with a neonatal/pediatric specialty certification at North Shore University Hospital (NSUH). Within her first year at Northwell, Lian has learned to be a team player and develop skills that helps her grow as a Respiratory Therapist.

Her day-to-day routine varies but her current role includes performing respiratory care as prescribed by a provider for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory illness in patients of all ages, from premature newborns to geriatric patients. Within her role she responds to all codes, Level I traumas, and rapid responses depending on her assignment for her shift.

First things first, Lian looks to see what her assignment is for the day once she arrives to work. Next, she prints out her patient list, which includes their ordered treatments. Then she reads the report from the previous shift and attends a huddle meeting, after which she goes to her units. This is where her team begins their rounds with the providers and develops a plan for the day, which can include examining patients’ airways and suctioning when necessary, performing ventilator checks, and providing additional treatments. “During the shift I also assist with intubations, transport patients on ventilatory support to procedures and attend high-risk deliveries in Katz Women’s Hospital at NSUH,” says Lian.

“My favorite thing about being a respiratory therapist is the connections I get to make with my patients and their families,” says Lian. “I treat every patient I come into contact with as if they were my own family and I’m able to provide relief for my patients.” Part of Lian’s role is to explain to family members how the ventilator works and how we are helping their loved ones. “It is very difficult to see a loved one intubated and on a ventilator but I get to provide peace of mind to their family members.”

Looking to discover a career well cared for as a respiratory therapist? Apply today!