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.
Full Time Nights This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing care which includes assessment and treatment of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Provide consultation, instruction and/or technical direction of medical, nursing, and other staff members. Consults with physicians. Observe professional ethics in maintaining confidential information acquired regarding personal, financial, medical or employment of patients, families, and employees. Must follow and enforce accepted safety practices for patients and LCH. Must report hazards and initiate appropriate action. Must participate in safety instructional programs. Attends in-service and training as assigned. Performs specific work duties and responsibilities as assigned by supervisor. Onsite position only.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY
Must have effective communication skills, both oral and written. Must be able to communicate calmly, compassionately, and professionally with all different types of patients. Proficient in the Microsoft Office applications and able to learn other computer software required. Must be able to act calmly and effectively in a busy or stressful situation. Ability to multi-task efficiently and effectively Must display a courteous, friendly, and helpful customer-service oriented attitude toward patients and the public.
Requirements:
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Possess and maintain current Texas Respiratory Therapist License Have a current card for the successful completion of Basic Cardiac Life Support (CPR) Two years of experience in a hospital or medically related environment preferred. CRTT or RRT certification
PERSONAL AND PUBLIC CONTACT
The Respiratory Therapist will have personal contact with all levels of staff, patients, visitors, and government agencies.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL CONDITIONS
The Respiratory Therapist must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., move and transfer patients if needed. The position requires standing, bending, stooping, crouching, walking, pushing and pulling. The physical demands of the position are frequently extreme and require the highest level of concern for personal and patient safety. May occasionally be subject to physically or mentally violent patients. Some disagreeable odors, blood borne, and airborne pathogens are present. Hearing, speech and vision must be adequate to perform job duties in person and over the phone. Can tolerate moderate to high stress levels and work closely with others.
EQUIPMENT USED
The Respiratory Therapist will use the following equipment: Various medical equipment utilized in the care of patients, computer and various computer programs, copy machine, fax machine and telephone usage.
OSHA TASK CATEGORY I
Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.
COMPLIANCE
Responsible for abiding by all policies and procedures to include the Code of Ethics and the principles and standards set forth for conducting business and affairs. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) The Respiratory Therapist will be responsible for abiding by all policies and procedures relating to HIPAA.
