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Respiratory Therapist
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Based on Texas data
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What they do
A Respiratory Therapist assists patients who have trouble breathing because of a chronic respiratory illness, trauma, or other conditions. Administers tests to diagnose breathing problems, performs treatments to help patients breathe easier, or sets up breathing equipment such as ventilators. Works closely with physicians and other healthcare workers, and may also assist in providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, drowning, or shock. Works in hospitals; may also provide care and counseling to patients in their homes.
$60,686 / year median in Texas
+12% projected growth
Job Description
Position Summary The Respiratory Therapist performs respiratory care and diagnostic procedures within scope of practice in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Life Care standards. Education, Experience, and Licensure Requirements Currently licensed in respiratory care in current State of practice Minimum of three (3) years' experience in respiratory care required (geriatric care preferred) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) OR Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) by the National Board for Respiratory Therapy (NBRC) Have and maintain current CPR certification Specific Job Requirements Possess demonstrated teaching proficiency and be able to educate a wide variety of personnel including other disciplines, patients, and caregivers Effectively communicate information concerning a patient's condition Possess a strong analytical ability in order to understand pathophysiology and be able to make recommendations to physicians regarding the most appropriate treatment of diseases Make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action Knowledgeable of practices and procedures as well as the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing functions in the post acute care facility Implement and interpret the programs, goals, objectives, policies, and procedures of the department Perform proficiently in all competency areas including but not limited to: patient rights, and safety and sanitation Maintains professional working relationships with all associates, vendors, etc. Maintains confidentiality of all proprietary and/or confidential information Understand and follow company policies including harassment and compliance procedures Displays integrity and professionalism by adhering to Life Care's Code of Conduct and completes mandatory Code of Conduct and other appropriate compliance training Essential Functions Collect specimens from adult and geriatric patients appropriately and safely Conduct respiratory care including but not limited to: establishment and maintenance of airway; CPR; medical gas and O2 therapy; humidity and aerosol therapy; infection control; suctioning; and emergency care Ensure that respiratory therapy is administered in accordance with physician orders and standards of practice Assist physicians and nursing, upon request, in assessing patients and designing appropriate therapy regimens Exhibit excellent customer service and a positive attitude towards patients Assist in the evacuation of patients Demonstrate dependable, regular attendance Concentrate and use reasoning skills and good judgment Communicate and function productively on an interdisciplinary team Sit, stand, bend, lift, push, pull, stoop, walk, reach, and move intermittently during working hours Read, write, speak, and understand the English language An Equal Opportunity Employer