RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

Description

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Respiratory Manager, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing Cardiopulmonary Care Services in accordance with specific physician’s orders and department policies and procedures.

Primary Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary responsibilities.

1. Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery.

2. Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.

3. Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning.

4. Performs arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas and carboxyhemoglobin analysis, and understands the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure.

5. Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures.

6. Documents all pertinent data on the patient’s medical record following completion of any service.

7. Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks and their proper usage.

8. Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department director such as assisting the doctors, nurses and techs when needed.

9. Performs EKGs, process EKG in MUSE system, according to department procedures.

10. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, adolescent and geriatric patients.

11. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, adolescent and geriatric patients.

12. Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.

13. Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.

14. Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning, Patient’s family is included in teaching as appropriate.

15. Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.

16. Assesses patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.

17. Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.

18. Participates in performance improvement activities and CQI teams when discussion pertains to departmental concerns, workflow and mission.

19. Performs other duties as deemed appropriate by supervisor and as assigned.

20. Assist the patient and or family with requests as needed.

Competencies

1. Ability to read and communicate effectively.
2. Knowledge of additional languages preferred.
3. Strong written and verbal skills.
4. Basic computer knowledge.
5. Ability to use appropriate discretion in handling confidential information and      materials.

Supervisory Responsibility

None.

Requirements

Required Education and Experience

1. Current State Respiratory Therapist Licensure required.

2. Graduate of an AMA-approved School of Respiratory Therapy required.

3. BCLS certification required.

Preferred Education and Experience

1. ACLS certification preferred.

2. PALS certification preferred.