Respiratory Therapist RRT Nights
Tennova Healthcare- North Knoxville Medical Center · Knoxville, TN · 1 mo ago
HealthcareFull-time
About the Role
The Respiratory Therapist - RRT is responsible for the administration of pharmacological, diagnostic, and therapeutic agents related to respiratory care procedures, following physician orders. This includes performing assessments, monitoring patient responses, and implementing treatment plans to promote effective respiratory care, disease prevention, and rehabilitation. The Respiratory Therapist ensures accurate documentation, maintains patient safety, and collaborates with healthcare teams to deliver high-quality patient care. The Respiratory Therapist works under the direction of ordering physician/clinician as well as established organizational policies and procedures.
Responsibilities
- Administers advanced respiratory treatments, performs assessments, and monitors patient responses to ensure effective care.
- Orients patient to treatment modality prior to procedure to facilitate cooperation and successful completion of treatment.
- Performs and documents Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) punctures accurately, reporting results promptly.
- Assists physicians with bedside procedures as assigned.
- Performs testing procedures, such as pulmonary testing, as assigned.
- Follows respiratory protocols, ensuring adherence to safety guidelines and regulatory standards.
- Communicates effectively with peers, healthcare staff, physicians, and leadership, ensuring timely information flow and follow-up on patient care concerns.
- Evaluates and maintains respiratory therapy equipment, ensuring proper functioning, cleanliness, and adherence to safety standards.
- Accurately implements written or verbal physician orders, ensuring compliance with respiratory care procedures.
- Provides clear, legible, and thorough documentation of all respiratory treatments, assessments, and patient responses.
- Ensures proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and patient identification techniques for safety and infection control.
- Manages ventilator settings and airway maintenance for optimal patient comfort and safety.
- Demonstrates skill and judgment in emergency situations, initiating appropriate interventions and collaborating with healthcare teams.
- Implements age-specific care considerations for oxygen therapy, tailoring treatment to meet patient needs across all populations.
Qualifications
- 1-3 years of respiratory experience in an acute care setting preferred.
Skills
- Proficient in administering pharmacological, diagnostic, and therapeutic respiratory procedures.
- Strong communication skills for effective interaction with healthcare teams, patients, and families.
- Skilled in patient assessment, ventilator management, and airway maintenance.
- Competent in using electronic medical record (EMR) systems for documentation and reporting.
- Knowledge of regulatory standards, safety protocols, and infection control measures.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and adherence to regulatory standards.
Licenses and Certifications
- RRT - Registered Respiratory Therapist required.
- ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support required.
- PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support required.
- NRP - Neonatal Resuscitation required if working in the NICU.
- STABLE - Neonatal Certification required if working in the NICU.
- Georgia-specific requirements: PALS and NRP certifications required. Successful completion of assigned SAMA course within 30 days of hire required.