Registered Respiratory Therapist

Registered Respiratory Therapist

The Registered Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing the full range of clinical procedures related to respiratory care to Veterans with cardiopulmonary deficiencies, diseases, and abnormalities in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Major duties include, but are not limited to:

• Administers a variety of therapeutic respiratory therapy treatments including medication delivery, oxygen therapy, aerosol/humidification therapy, and positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy

• Sets up and monitors respiratory equipment such as invasive and noninvasive ventilators, end tidal CO2 (ETCo2) monitors, oxygen delivery devices, and oximetry monitors

• Performs patient assessment through direct contact, chart review, and other appropriate means to develop and implement a plan of care, including initiating protocols and monitoring critical systems

• Performs bedside diagnostic tests including arterial blood gas analysis, pulse oximetry, and basic spirometry to assess the respiratory status of patients

• Manages and maintains airway and ventilation of patients through use of appropriate mechanical means, including artificial airways and advanced modes of ventilation

• Calibrates complex respiratory equipment such as ventilators and analyzers to assure accurate and safe performance

• Performs routine respiratory therapy treatments to inpatient and outpatient populations including administering oxygen, therapeutic aerosols, Aerobika, and chest physical therapy; draws arterial blood samples via arterial puncture for laboratory analysis

• Consults collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care, recommend changes in treatment based on patient observation and diagnostic test values, and contribute to favorable patient outcomes

• Provides in-service training to other respiratory therapists and nursing personnel on treatment modalities, medications, equipment setup and operation, and applicable cleaning and safety precautions

• Documents patient treatment, findings, and progress notes accurately and timely in the electronic medical record (e.g., CPRS, Vista Imaging)

• Provides outpatient services including PAP therapy, oxygen therapy, home ventilator management, and COPD case management via face-to-face and Tele/VVC encounters

Work Schedule: 6:00 A.M - 6:30 P.M. with alternating weekends. (Three - 12 Hour shifts and One 8 Hour shift per week).

Compressed/Flexible: Available

Telework: Ad-hoc

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 000000

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized.

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

US Department of Veterans Affairs