Respiratory Care Practitioner

Summary

The Respiratory Care Practitioner provides specialized and routine clinical therapies to neonatal and pediatric patients in various units including NICU, PICU, ED, and general care areas. This position utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and works in critical care, inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings. The role involves enhancing a multidisciplinary approach through communication with the care team, patients, and family members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assesses patient condition based on medical history, observation, examination, physician's diagnosis, laboratory findings, and diagnostic procedures.
• Develops or modifies the respiratory care plan and recommends indicated therapy to physicians.
• Administers diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate therapeutic responses, including blood gas sampling and interpretation, oxygen saturation, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement, pulmonary mechanics, and inhaled medications.
• Maintains artificial airways and provides mechanical ventilation, as well as transports patients with artificial airways or mechanical ventilation to facilitate tests and procedures.
• Initiates patient and caregiver teaching as appropriate.
• Completes necessary documentation of all pertinent observations related to patient care treatments, response to therapy, and modifications in the treatment plan.

Licenses and/or Certifications

• Current Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board of Respiratory Care required at time of hire.
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) designation/certification required at time of hire and/or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.
• American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) designation/certification required at time of hire and/or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training required at time of hire or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• Associate degree in Respiratory Care from an accredited program, college, or university required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Care from an accredited program, college, or university preferred.
• Continuous re-certification and/or maintenance of licenses, certifications/designations, training, educational, and application requirements are required during employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Possesses strong verbal, written, and interpersonal skills to communicate detailed clinical observations and evaluations with the healthcare team.
• Analytical skills necessary to assess patient/family needs, prioritize care based on assessments, and develop solutions to problems concerning patient's mental or physical well-being.
• Highly motivated, enthusiastic team player who takes initiative.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills, able to shift priorities, and able to work independently and problem-solve in a fast-paced, fluid environment.

Working Conditions

Minimal exposure to environmental hazards such as excessive noise, dust, or extremes in temperatures. Exposure to communicable diseases and moderately adverse working conditions due to the need to perform certain patient care activities can be expected.

Physical Requirements

Details of physical requirements can be viewed here.

Additional Information

CHKDHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law - click here for more information. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. If assistance is needed, please reach out to us at TalentTeam@chkd.org.