Job Title: Respiratory Therapist
Profession: Cardiopulmonary
Specialty: Respiratory Therapy
Duration: 13 weeks
Shift: Nights
Hours per Shift: 12 hours
Experience: Minimum 1 year preferred
License: Current Respiratory Therapist License required
Certifications: BLS, ACLS, NRP, PALS required
Must-Have: Strong computer skills with the ability to navigate EMR programs
Description:
The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders and department policies and procedures.
The therapist assesses, treats, and cares for patients with breathing disorders.
They initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures, maintain patient records, and select, assemble, check, and operate respiratory care equipment.
They perform accurate and complete respiratory assessments of patients and conduct initial screenings, assessing and reassessing pain.
Assessments are age, culture, and psychosocial appropriate.
The therapist determines requirements for treatment, such as type, method, and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, and medication and dosages compatible with physician orders.
They formulate a teaching plan based on identified learning needs and evaluate the effectiveness of learning, including educating the patient or family regarding pain management and discharge planning or follow-up instructions.
The therapist monitors the patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes.
They consult with the physician if adverse reactions occur.
They prepare and administer medications based on the age and clinical condition of the patient, demonstrating knowledge of respiratory medications, outcomes, and side effects.
The therapist conducts tests, such as holter monitoring, cardiac monitoring, and lung capacity tests, to evaluate patients' cardiopulmonary functions.
They adjust equipment to obtain optimum results in therapy.
They complete routine cleaning, maintain department equipment, and assist with calibration of equipment.
Proper documentation is completed in both electronic and chart form.
The therapist performs all aspects of the position in an environment that optimizes safety and reduces the likelihood of medical or health care errors.
They utilize established hand-off communication protocols.
Compliance with all established safety procedures is required to ensure a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
The therapist participates in performance improvement activities and performs other duties as assigned.