Respiratory Therapist Flight

Responsibilities

• Provides quality therapy and care to patients suffering cardiopulmonary, neurological or other metabolic disturbances which require the administration of various treatments.
• Communicates with physician concerning efficacy of therapy, instructs patients, takes phone orders and performs other cardiopulmonary care services functions.
• In addition to responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist, the Flight RT is part of the NICU transport team and participates in interhospital transports via fixed-wing, rotor-wing, and ground.
• The Flight RT also participates in transport-specific training and transport-specific competencies.
• Counsels and educates patients and families regarding their condition and treatment plan.
• Administers and documents medication in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Correctly administers Cardiopulmonary Care Services in accordance with Policies and Procedures.
• Precepts employees, new orients, and students.
• Maintains awareness of environmental conditions and initiates corrective intervention as indicated.
• Responds to transport requests during their shift when they are the designated flight therapist.
• Initiates appropriate and timely interventions per flight protocols in conjunction with medical control.
• Evaluates patient progress, analyzes data, and modifies the planning and implementation of care based on patient response throughout the transport process.
• Demonstrate competence and maintain proficiency with advanced respiratory modalities and flight equipment including Intubation, Nitric Oxide Administration, High Frequency Ventilation, and Conventional Venilation.
• Maintain training and skills commensurate with flight duties and medical guidelines.
• Participate in training, competency, and simulation as required to maintain proficiency.
• Maintain competency in flight physiology, FAA Safety Officer training, and any additional training required by Portneuf Air Rescue.

Qualifications

• Completion of a respiratory care program approved by the American Medical Association.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
• Current Idaho State License to practice Respiratory Care.
• 2 years clinical experience (minimum 1500 hrs per year) as a Respiratory Therapist in an acute care hospital with 1 year experience in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, including HFOV and INO.
• BLS certification must be obtained within 14 days of hire or transfer into the role and prior to providing direct patient care.
• ACLS and NRP required - must be obtained within 14 days of hire.
• Certification in PALS and STABLE within 6 months of hire.
• NPS or C-NPT preferred.
• Neonatal transport experience.