Respiratory Therapist

Summary

The Respiratory Therapist under the supervision of the Respiratory Therapy Supervisor delivers direct respiratory care to subacute care patients as assigned. They coordinate and monitor patient care, set up and manage ventilators, document care, communicate with healthcare team, and participate in clinical education.

Essential Job Functions

• Provides direct patient care respiratory services as assigned.
• Captures and documents all therapeutic and diagnostic activities in the patient's medical record.
• Affirmatively assesses the appropriateness of respiratory care ordered and discusses variances with the primary physician when necessary.
• Formulates an appropriate Respiratory Care plan based upon patient assessment.
• Maintains quality assurance by identifying problem areas regarding departmental, staff, and patient safety.
• Communicates changes in the respiratory care plan with other healthcare team members.
• Explains treatment procedures to patients and/or family members to allay fears and elicit cooperation and ensures patient education regarding the pulmonary system.
• Participates in meetings and conferences to expedite and improve delivery of respiratory care.
• Proposes, develops, and helps implement techniques, methodology, and treatment modalities related to respiratory care.
• Assists in developing new clinical procedures in designated area.
• Responds to cardiopulmonary arrests and performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation and airway care as needed.
• Identifies the need for development of improved documentation forms.
• Performs peer review of other therapists working in area of responsibility.
• Provides input to supervisor regarding staffing, equipment, and supply needs.
• Assembles, checks, and corrects malfunctions and performs quality controls on respiratory care equipment.
• Maintains clinical and professional competency based upon established standards of practice.

Minimum Knowledge And Skills Required By The Job

• Education: Graduation from an approved program in Respiratory Therapy. Associate’s Degree in Respiratory Care Technology preferred.
• Experience: Two years’ experience.
• Certifications/Licenses: Current California credential to practice Respiratory Care. Registered Respiratory Therapist or eligible for registration by the National Board of Respiratory Care.
• Other Skills: Ability to apply pediatric respiratory principles in the clinical setting. Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills required. Ability to problem solve. PALS certification required (may complete after hire).

Physical Requirements

• Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Specific Vision Abilities: Close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Other: Ability to assist in evacuation of children during emergency situations.