JOB SUMMARY

• The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing respiratory/cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician’s orders and department policies and procedures

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/EXPECTATIONS

• Demonstrates the values of team concept on a consistent basis
• Focused on prioritizing the patient’s clinical experience, maintaining a high awareness of patient satisfaction
• Meticulous attention to detail with the ability to multi-task, while demonstrating proficient time management skills
• Self-starter who needs no reminders of duties and tasks that need to be completed
• Able to respond to and cope with emergency situations professionally and calmly
• Focused, patient and calm, performing well under pressure in a stressful environment and able to take appropriate action
• Must be flexible, responding to changes in work schedule, able to work as needed for appropriate departmental coverage
• Basic computer knowledge; become proficient in Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems
• Must possess knowledge of computer operations and proficiency in the use of word processing, email, electronic medical records(EMR), information systems and other similar software as required
• Requires critical thinking skills, decisive judgment, and the ability to work with minimal supervision
• Excellent written, verbal and communication skills
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security. Additional languages preferred
  Qualifications

EDUCATION

• Associate of Science Degree, required
• Bachelor of Science Degree, preferred

EXPERIENCE

• Not Required

• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors
• Interacts professionally with patients/families; treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Identifies and addresses psychosocial, cultural, ethnic and religious/spiritual needs of patients and their families
• Effectively and appropriately communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers, demonstrating customer service excellence through application of positive language principles, appropriate response and use of constructive problem-solving techniques which foster positive outcomes
• Ability to appropriately assess all patients as related to the care requested and provided and reassessments as per policy
• This includes neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric patients, and the general patient population
• Evaluates respiratory care policies and procedures based on patient outcomes, current research, and best practices
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks, and their proper usage
• Formulates a teaching plan based upon identified learning needs of patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning, family is included in teaching as appropriate
• Performs Respiratory Therapy Diagnostic Procedures and Therapy Treatments, per plan of care
• Maintains accurate and continued documentation appropriately for all assessments, treatments, and evaluations performed
• Documentation meets current standards and policies
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients, as well as the general patient population
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and test respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently
• Follows the six (6) medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors
• Responds to codes and calls for emergency assistance. Assesses patient condition and delivers appropriate treatment
• Monitors, receives, stocks, and distributes respiratory care supplies and medical gas cylinders
• Disassembles, cleans and sterilizes equipment and performs preventative maintenance and calibration of machines
• Initiates, maintains, and discontinues continuous Mechanical Ventilation
• Applies principles of sterile techniques and infection control procedures
• Consults other departments as appropriate to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities
• Assists in orientation and training of new staff/students as necessary
• Keeps current with principles and practices, regulations, and standards that apply to healthcare
• Performs other reasonably related job duties as assigned or requested, within scope of practice