Respiratory Therapist, New Grad

A competent clinician with moderate level knowledge, assessment and therapeutic skills for respiratory conditions and consistently performs at that level. Periodically incorporates other system assessments into care. Reliably demonstrates consistent practice and documentation to department standards with minimal-to-no-variation. Manages care and implements treatment plans in collaboration with patients, their families, physicians and other members of the health care team. Seeks as well as provides feedback for improved clinical practice. Provides a preceptor role for RT Clinician 1.

• Assesses respiratory care needs, applies diagnostic testing and therapeutic plans with skill and insight.

• Patient records are reviewed, data collected and clinical information evaluated.

• Independently performs thorough respiratory assessments according to established guidelines, protocols and timelines.

• Proactively seeks guidance on evidenced based guidelines & protocols and diagnostics to guide, evaluate response, and adjust care.

• Therapeutic interventions & prescribed medications provided according to protocols, guidelines, orders.

• Identifies pts who may benefit from advanced care approaches (e.g., transpulmonary mechanics monitoring); Escalates to others to help address the clinical need.

• Recognizes changes in clinical conditions, initiates steps to mitigate, occasionally preempt.

• Recognizes potential practice risk sources, & promptly activates BeSafe for scenarios as warranted.

• Documents patient care according to professional standards and departmental guidelines

• Verifies orders, performs timely documentation of key elements to department standards with minor variation; caliber and quality reflect competency.

• Patient and family goals are integrated to care plan and documented in the medical record.

• Personal documentation reflects positive performance in safety/quality/care initiatives.

• Accurately communicates patient response to RT interventions, recommends need for modification of patient care plan

• Routinely engages in shift hand-off in a clear, comprehensive and participatory manner.

• Can speak to the respiratory care plan; rationale and recommendations.

• Cultural diversity, special needs, learning styles, age and gender identification are included in setting and reviewing goals. Patient & family treatment goals are integrated to care plan.

• Routine use of IDEAL to explain care to patient and/or family. Teaches basic care elements.

• Response to care is communicated to patient & health team as requested, developing and refining communication style.

• Demonstrates innovative application of technologies that support care. Active with implementation of evidenced based practice and new knowledge generated by respiratory research and endorsed by Department.

• Keeps current with departmental updates & processes, consistently applies practice changes within 2 weeks of release.

• Embraces Quality as evidenced by: comprehension of processes, data and outcomes, participation in QI initiatives, application of standard procedures, protocols and documentation

• Use/manages equipment & supplies according to guidelines to meet area and hospital need.

• Knows key Quality/Safety/Be Safe processes; Participates with root cause analysis after events.

• Participates with QI initiatives; Understands monitoring process; Supportive/timely practice.

• Participates in at least one department or organizational initiative.

• Precepts learners 1:1 on respiratory elements, respectful and developmental manner.

• Productive and accountable work and schedule habits are consistently displayed.

• Embraces professional development through formal education, certification, internal/external learning and professional organization participation. Precepts new learners and students.

• Adheres to ASPIRE. Demonstrates continual professional development; Seeks feedback for professional growth from peers.

• Demonstrates proactive adherence to competency & licensure requirements within defined time periods.

• Member of local, state, national professional association (AARC) is strongly encouraged.

• Attendance at 3 non-mandatory respiratory educational events hosted or approved by Department annually.

• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Graduate of an accredited respiratory therapy educational program required. Bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy preferred.

Experience: None required

License/Certification:

Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) within 90 days of hire.

Licensed to practice as a Respiratory Therapist in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

American Heart Association (AHA) Health Care Provider BLS certification required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Job requires standing for prolonged periods, frequently traveling and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory and visual skills; Attention to detail and ability to write legibly; Ability to lift/push/pull 20 - 50lbs. May be exposed to chemicals, blood/body fluids and infectious disease.

The starting base rate for this role is $33.00 hourly. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off, Long-term and Short-term Disability, Retirement Savings

• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts

• Certification and education support

• Generous Paid Time Off

UVA Health ( is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report "Best Hospitals" guide ( rates UVA Health University Medical Center as "High Performing" in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children's ( is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report ( as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment ( .