Registered Respiratory Therapist

About the role

The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) PRN provides advanced respiratory care services to patients. This includes administering oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, inhaled medication, airway clearance, and ventilation. Therapists also conduct bedside spirometry, administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation in emergencies, review physician's orders, examine patient's test results, provide therapy based on patient's condition, implement approved protocols, assess patient response to therapy, instruct patients on using respiratory care equipment, document treatments, and report outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Performs and directs respiratory care services like oxygen therapy and aerosol therapy.
• Administers inhaled medication, airway clearance, and ventilation.
• Conducts bedside spirometry as ordered by a patient's physician.
• Follows established procedures for quality care.
• Administers cardiopulmonary resuscitation in emergencies.
• Reviews physician's orders, examines patient's test results, and provides therapy based on the patient's condition.
• If appropriate, implements approved protocols as directed by the physician.
• Performs routine and advanced respiratory therapy prioritizing patient needs in a rapidly changing environment.
• Instructs patient on using various respiratory care equipment thoroughly and professionally.
• Affords patient response to therapy and coaches to improve technique.
• Documents all treatments, therapies, and supplies used accurately.
• Fills out corresponding charges accurately.
• Reports outcomes of therapeutic interventions and makes recommendations as appropriate.
• Adheres to established policies, including infection control, isolation, HIPAA, time and attendance, and social media.
• Works willingly and professionally with other employees, healthcare professionals, and students.
• Takes responsibility and initiative to know and complete any professional or technical requirements set by leadership.
• Incorporates values continuous quality improvement in all aspects of clinical care, identifying opportunities as appropriate.

Requirements

• General knowledge of Respiratory Care modalities, therapies, equipment, and medications.
• Must be able to read, write, and follow flow chart protocols as appropriate.
• Must be able to work under stressful conditions.
• Must have critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• General computer skills, including but not limited to data entry, information security, electronic medical documentation, handheld scanning, and email.

Qualifications

• Education: Associate's degree or 2 years of work experience above the minimum qualification.
• Experience: Less than 1 year of experience.
• Certification/License/Registration: Basic Life Support (BLS): BLS in 30 days of hire or transfer. Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP): Licensed by the State of Texas Medical Board as a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP). Reg Respiratory Therapist (RRT): Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board Respiratory Care.