Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

Responsibilities

• Performs all levels of respiratory care to include monitoring of ventilator patients.
• The contracted therapists shall also be expected to chart using VA Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) and Bar Code Medication Administration (BCMA).
• Duties and responsibilities include administering various respiratory therapy procedures, performing sputum inductions, instructing patients and relatives on home self-care, responding to emergency and cardiac arrest alarms, and safeguarding patient information as confidential.
• Ensures compliance with infection control policies and procedures, and uses appropriate equipment for respiratory care.
• Performs diagnostic tests such as culture and sensitivity, TB and fungal cultures, and cytologist examinations for abnormal cells.
• Trains patients and relatives on home aerosol, home oxygen use, and other respiratory care techniques.
• Works within the boundaries of the law and regulations, and reports illegal or improper behavior to the appropriate authorities.

Requirements

• Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
• National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Registered Respiratory Therapist credentialed or otherwise licensed in the specialty area.
• American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• American Heart Association Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is preferred.
• Three (3) years of recent Registered Respiratory Therapist experience in a hospital setting.
• All candidates must be able to: sit, stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, twist, and reach above shoulders during the work shift; lift up to 50 lbs from floor to waist; lift up to 20 lbs; carry up to 40 lbs a reasonable distance; push/pull with 30 lbs of force.

Qualifications

• Must have significant knowledge of related disciplines to fully evaluate and properly carry-out patient procedures.
• Must treat patients and colleagues with respect, care, and thoughtfulness.
• Must perform duties and functions as a Registered Respiratory Therapist with integrity and appropriate ethical behavior.
• Must safeguard patient information as confidential.
• Must prudently use Respiratory resources.
• May be required to track and order supplies necessary for the daily operation of the section if assigned.