Respiratory Therapist - PRN Nightshift

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview

This position requires a solid understanding of respiratory care to effectively serve diverse patient populations, ensuring that techniques align with their chronological, social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The respiratory care provided is based on physician orders and adheres to established standards and protocols.

Schedule: PRN - Various shifts, including night shifts from 7 PM to 7:30 AM on weekdays and weekends.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the achievement of departmental goals while adhering to policies, procedures, quality standards, and safety regulations. Ensure compliance with governmental and accreditation requirements.
• Evaluate the physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and cultural aspects of patients, along with their educational needs, and document findings appropriately.
• Administer all respiratory therapy treatments and services, which include but are not limited to: operation, monitoring, and management of equipment. Services encompass oxygen therapy, mixed gases, humidity, ventilators (both invasive and non-invasive), bronchial hygiene, lung expansion, spirometry testing, EKG machines, and blood gas analysis.
• Utilize therapeutic communication, interviewing techniques, problem-solving skills, and crisis intervention strategies while providing patient care.
• Review electronic medical records and physician orders during the work shift.
• Engage in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by maintaining airways and providing oxygen and ventilation through masks, endotracheal tubes, or other devices, as well as performing closed chest cardiac massage.
• Enhance workflow efficiency by monitoring interdepartmental systems and processes, adhering to departmental policies, and suggesting improvements as necessary.
• Carry out additional duties relevant to the role and department. The responsibilities listed above provide a general overview of the work associated with this classification and are not exhaustive.

Qualifications

• Education: An associate's degree or higher from an AMA-accredited respiratory care program is required; a bachelor's degree in a related healthcare field is preferred.
• Experience: 0-3 years of experience in acute care is required; registry eligibility is also necessary.
• Licenses and Certifications:
  • CRT - Certified Respiratory Therapist from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is required.
  • RCP - Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner from the NBRC is preferred.
  • Must possess and maintain a license to practice respiratory care in Maryland.
  • CPR certification (including BLS and NRP) from either the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross is required within 90 days.
  • Additional unit or specialty certifications may vary by department.
  • ACLS, NRP, PALS, and other certifications may be required within a year, depending on departmental needs.

Skills and Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of human respiratory anatomy, physiology, and pathology as they relate to respiratory care.
• Familiarity with the operation of respiratory care equipment and its clinical applications.
• Ability to identify hazardous conditions related to respiratory care and take appropriate corrective measures.
• Capability to remain composed and effective in high-pressure situations.
• Strong teamwork skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse individuals.

Compensation: This position offers a hiring range of USD $51.75 per hour.