Respiratory Care Practitioner

Working under regular supervision with approved protocols or under the order of a licensed independent provider (LIP), the Respiratory Care Practitioner I (Certified) executes assignments demonstrating a basic level of clinical competence in Respiratory Care and the continuing development of proficiency in the selection of accurate technical factors on an individual patient basis necessary to evaluate and provide age appropriate treatment across all patient types in all locations to include cardiopulmonary dysfunction secondary to developmental defects, the aging process, physical injury or disease requiring the administration of inhaled medications, utilization of specialized ventilation equipment and performing a variety of respiratory care techniques. Learns and adheres to all department and facility policies and procedures.

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job responsibilities performed.

• Under the oversight of a senior practitioner. May manage an assigned case load and responds to emergent patient needs. Functions as part of a larger team to support patients under the department’s care.
• Performs respiratory care in varied patient populations. Verifies all interventions are supported by protocol or LIP order. Observes and monitors physical signs and symptoms, general behavior, general physical response to respiratory care procedures. Participates with LIP during patient rounds and in the initiation, modification, or discontinuation of the treatment regimen. Learns and adheres to Joint Commission, State, Federal, organizational and departmental regulatory compliance standards.
• Administers therapeutic and diagnostic gases (exclusive of anesthetic agents), aerosolized medication treatments and chest physiotherapy. Administers invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation and adjusts ventilation equipment to optimize patient support. Ensures correct ventilator alarms and settings. Collaborates with the healthcare team when adjusting ventilation parameters and settings, as necessary in accordance with patient’s response. Evaluates the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions by Reviewing chest x-rays, utilizing noninvasive monitor values and laboratory results. Monitors patient appearance and vital signs and defers to a senior practitioner as necessary.
• Documents accurate patient care activity in various electronic health records systems.
• Participates in departmental and organizational performance improvement initiatives and efforts to improve workflows, patient experience and quality.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience - Required

1. Associate's Degree /Legacy Approved Certificate Program
2. Licensure as a Respiratory Care practitioner by the Maryland Board of Physician Quality Assurance
3. Certified Respiratory Therapist/RRT Eligible
4. Basic Cardiac Life Support Certification
5. No experience required.