Respiratory Therapist

Job Summary The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing Cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders, department policies and procedures. The Respiratory Therapist administers respiratory care and life support to residents with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system, performs diagnostic tests of the cardiovascular and pulmonary system to aid physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of heart and lung disorders. Essential Functions Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery. Administers respiratory therapy treatments, and nebulized medications. Understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each. Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment. Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures. Documents all pertinent data on the resident's medical record following completion of any service. Maintains a thorough knowledge of electronic health records, departmental forms, flow charts, Logbooks and their proper usage. Perform all additional duties as assigned by the Regional Director. Completed Pulmonary Function Tests, uploads report interpretations, sends reports to physicians who request them, and communicates reports to clinical leadership, according to department procedures. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in technique and treatment modalities as performed on residents of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric residents. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to residents of varying ages, including geriatrics. Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently. Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a resident and evaluates effectiveness of learning. Resident's family is included in teaching as appropriate. Treats residents and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs resident care to ensure resident's needs are met and that hospital policy is followed. Ability to assess resident, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment. Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training. Participate in performance improvement activities and CQI teams when discussion pertains to department concerns, workflow and mission. Perform incentive spirometry, Flutter, chest physiotherapy, therapeutic exercises, pulmonary function testing, and utilize Omniflow or other equipment for treatment or testing. Non-Essential Functions Perform other duties as assigned. Professional Requirements Adhere to dress code, appearance is neat and clean. Complete annual education requirements. Always maintain resident confidentiality. Maintains regulatory requirements. Report to work on time and as scheduled. Wear identification while on duty. Maintain regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and local regulations. Always represent the organization in a positive and professional manner. Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices. Communicate the mission, ethics and goals of the organization. Participate in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement activities. Attend regular staff meetings and in-services. Complies with all organizational policies regarding ethical business practices. Communicates the mission, ethics and goals of the facility as well as the focus of the department. Regulatory Requirements Current State and National Respiratory Therapist Licensure in good standing. Graduate of an American Medical Association approved School of Respiratory Therapy. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or must be obtained within thirty (30) days of hire Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire if working with residents in ventilation unit. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge in general clinical services. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Ability to determine appropriate course of action in more complex situations. Ability to work independently, exercise creativity, be attentive to detail, and maintain a positive attitude. Ability to manage multiple and simultaneous responsibilities and to prioritize scheduling of work. Ability to maintain confidentiality of all medical, financial, and legal information. Ability to complete work assignments accurately and in a timely manner. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. The ability to handle difficult situations involving residents, physicians, or others in a professional manner. Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions Work is performed during regular work hours but will require evening and/or weekend hours to meet deadlines. Work in varying degrees of temperature (heated or air conditioned). Work under extreme pressure. Position requires walking for approximately 10-12 hours per day. Position requires light to moderate work with 50 pounds maximum weight to lift and carry. Position requires reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, talking and/or hearing, and seeing.