Sylvan Grove Hospital has earned Quality Respiratory Care Recognition (QRCR) from the American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC). Approximately 500 hospitals in the U.S., or about 10 percent, have applied for and received the award. This marks the fourth time that Sylvan Grove has received this recognition.  

The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) began the QRCR program in 2003 to help consumers identify facilities that are using qualified respiratory therapists to provide respiratory care. Hospitals earning the designation ensure patient safety by agreeing to adhere to a strict set of criteria governing their respiratory care services.

To qualify for the recognition, Sylvan Grove had to provide documentation that it meets the AARC’s guidelines. 

• All respiratory therapists employed at the hospital to deliver bedside respiratory care services are either legally recognized by the state as competent to provide respiratory care services or hold the CRT or RRT credential.
• Respiratory therapists are available 24 hours a day.
• Other personnel qualified to perform specific respiratory procedures and the amount of supervision required for personnel to carry out specific procedures must be designated in writing.
• A physician is designated as the medical director of respiratory care services.  

Hospitals that meet the QRCR requirements provide a level of respiratory care consistent with national standards and guidelines, and have a commitment to quality care. The AARC is a membership organization representing more than 42,000 health professionals involved in respiratory care nationwide. For more information on QRCR designations, visit www.yourlunghealth.org.