Registered Nurse for respiratory therapy

Position Summary The Part-Time Incentive Spirometry Registered Nurse is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and documenting the facility's incentive spirometry program for residents as ordered by the attending physician or identified through clinical assessment. The RN will work collaboratively with nursing staff, rehabilitation services, respiratory providers, and medical providers to promote optimal pulmonary function, reduce the risk of respiratory complications, and improve resident outcomes. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Perform respiratory assessments to determine residents' need for incentive spirometry. Implement physician-ordered incentive spirometry treatments. Educate residents on the proper use and purpose of the incentive spirometer. Encourage resident participation and monitor compliance with prescribed treatment frequency. Assess resident technique and provide ongoing coaching to ensure proper use. Monitor residents for changes in respiratory status and promptly report significant findings to the provider. Document all assessments, treatments, resident participation, education, and responses in the electronic medical record. Maintain accurate treatment logs and documentation in accordance with facility policy and regulatory requirements. Communicate with nursing staff regarding residents requiring additional respiratory monitoring or intervention. Collaborate with therapy services when respiratory exercises complement rehabilitation goals. Participate in care planning for residents with respiratory concerns. Ensure incentive spirometers are properly labeled, cleaned, and replaced according to infection control policies. Assist with quality improvement initiatives related to respiratory care and prevention of pneumonia. Perform other nursing duties as assigned within the scope of RN licensure. Qualifications Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the State of New York. Long-term care or skilled nursing experience preferred. Experience with respiratory assessment and pulmonary care preferred. Knowledge of CMS, NYSDOH, and infection prevention regulations. Strong assessment, documentation, and communication skills. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Frequent bending, reaching, and assisting residents with positioning. Ability to wear required PPE and follow infection control practices. Schedule Part-time. Flexible schedule based on resident treatment needs. Weekend and holiday rotation may be required. Performance Expectations The RN is expected to: Complete all assigned incentive spirometry treatments according to physician orders and facility protocols. Maintain timely and accurate documentation. Achieve high resident participation and compliance. Promptly identify and report changes in resident respiratory status. Demonstrate professional communication and teamwork. Comply with all CMS, NYSDOH, OSHA, and facility policies. Preferred Treatment Responsibilities (if adopted by facility) The RN may also: Screen newly admitted post-operative residents for incentive spirometry needs. Provide short-term pulmonary conditioning following respiratory illness. Track treatment completion rates and resident outcomes. Participate in pneumonia prevention initiatives. Assist with education of nursing staff on proper incentive spirometry techniques.