Respiratory Therapist (RRT)- PRN Tier 1 (NICU)

PRN Registered Respiratory Therapist

In the dynamic environment of the SMC/NICU, respiratory therapists are offered the opportunity to practice at the pinnacle of their skills, with a comprehensive 12-16 week orientation designed to enhance specialized techniques and foster professional growth. As integral members of our NICU transport team, therapists not only attend all high-risk deliveries but also regularly utilize their intubation expertise in life-saving scenarios. Our unit provides substantial autonomy, adhering to protocols that empower therapists to appropriately wean patients while being actively involved in pediatric trauma cases in our level three emergency trauma center. Beyond NICU responsibilities, our therapists also manage a four-bed PICU unit and a pediatric ward, contributing to a collaborative environment that prioritizes open communication, teamwork, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Together, we are nurturing a positive culture built on trust and respect, enhancing the care we provide to our youngest patients.

The PRN Registered Respiratory Therapist under the guidance of the Department Director/Manager, and Medical Director utilizes knowledge and skill at the advanced level to provide direct age specific and culturally appropriate patient care through provision of adequate ventilation and oxygenation by use of medical gases and breathing equipment. Administers respiratory medications and performs invasive procedures, such as arterial blood sampling punctures, endotracheal intubation/extubation, tracheostomy care and other procedures as outlined on the competency grid form. Assists as a clinical resource and participates in patient and staff education.

Minimum Requirements

• Associate Degree graduate of specialized training in an approved Respiratory Therapy 2 year program or meets minimum requirements to qualify to take and pass the NBRC RRT examinations
• Successful completion of new hire orientation within probationary period.
• Must successfully complete annual Respiratory Care Hospital required competency assessment.
• Prefer 1-2 years of experience in the specialty area (Ex. Adult critical care, Neonatal/Pediatrics area)
• Must be Registered by the National Board for Respiratory Care with RRT credential
• Must have current South Carolina Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License
• Must have and maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification as a minimum
• Adult critical care requires ACLS and PALS
• NICU/Pediatrics area requires NRP and PALS certifications; STABLE certification is preferred

Core Job Responsibilities

• Performs and documents detailed age specific respiratory assessment including heart rate, breath sounds, respiratory rate and sputum characteristics, and notifies the physician as appropriate any identified abnormalities.
• Checks EMR to verify physician orders for new/current and/or changes in orders on all assigned patients by reviewing medication list throughout the shift.
• Recommends therapy modifications to ensure appropriateness of care using medical director approved oxygen and aerosol protocols.
• Initiates mechanical invasive and non-invasive ventilation per physician order; performs ventilator bundles on all ventilated patients.
• Employee performs arterial sampling draws and moderate complexity lab testing to include blood gases, Hemoglobin, and basic electrolytes per policy and procedure. Also responsible for verifying panic values by policy.
• Responds to all assigned designated medical alerts, establishes and maintains the airway.
• Assists the physician with bronchoscopy procedure as requested.
• Ensures that appropriate critical path/standard of care/plan of care is identified and collaboratively implemented.
• Documents all assessments and procedures in EMR.
• Other Duties as Assigned