Respiratory Therapist - New Grad - All Locations - NLA

Respiratory Therapist

This job provides respiratory care treatment, oxygen services, diagnostic testing and ventilation support services to both in-patients and out-patients ranging in age from neonatal to geriatric. Monitors and weans Oxygen Therapy and Artificial ventilation, draws, analyzes and reports Arterial Blood Gases and EKGs, and delivers intermittent therapy. Assists with changing of artificial airways, and provides services as ordered by a physician and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Education

Required - Associate's Degree

Work Experience Required - None

Certifications

Required - Current License as a Respiratory Therapist in the state of practice

Credentialed by the National Board of Respiratory Care as a Certified Respiratory Therapist

Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the American Heart Association

Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certification (only for trained therapists working in the NICU)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) must be obtained within 90 days of hire

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of patient information. Must be proficient with Windows-style applications and keyboard.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Job Duties

• Performs routine and advanced therapeutic procedures according to established policy and procedure.
• Reviews and documents all clinical information regarding each patient.
• Educates patients and co-workers on procedures and treatment plans.
• Performs diagnostic procedures.
• Provides care based on physical, psycho/social, educational, safety and related criteria appropriate to the age of patient served in assigned area.
• Maintains professional certifications and up-to-date knowledge of technical procedures.
• Attends staff meetings.
• Other related duties as required.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time. Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.

This employer maintains and complies with its Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns. The employer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Very Heavy Work - Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Heavy Work.

Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue.

The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain communicable diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to communicable diseases.

Because the incumbent works within a healthcare setting, there may be occupational risk for exposure to hazardous medications or hazardous waste within the environment through receipt, transport, storage, preparation, dispensing, administration, cleaning and/or disposal of contaminated waste. The risk level of exposure may increase depending on the essential job duties of the role.

Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport