RESP THERAPIST- REGISTERED - PRN

Respiratory Therapist

Under the supervision of the Director of Hospital Respiratory Therapy Services, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician's orders, department policies and procedures.

General requirements:

Performs all job responsibilities in alignment with the mission and vision of the organization.

Performs other duties as required and completes all job functions as per departmental policies and procedures.

Maintains current knowledge in present areas of responsibility (i.e., self-education, attends ongoing educational programs).

Attends staff meetings and completes mandatory in-services, requirements and competency evaluations on time.

Wears protective clothing and equipment as appropriate.

General skills:

Ability to communicate in English, both verbally and in writing.

Additional languages preferred.

Strong written and verbal skills.

Basic computer skills

Working conditions:

General environment: Works in a well-lit, air-conditioned area, with moderate noise levels.

May be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights.

May be exposed to limited hazardous substances or body fluids, or infectious organisms.

May be required to change from one task to another or different nature without loss of efficiency or composure.

Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.

May be scheduled as needed, including overtime.

Physical requirements & demands:

Have near-normal hearing: Hear alarms/telephone/normal speaking voice.

Have near-normal vision: Clarity of vision (both near and far), ability to distinguish colors.

Have good manual dexterity.

Have good eye-hand-foot coordination.

Ability to perform repetitive tasks/motion.

Continuously within shift (67-100%): Standing, Walking.

Frequently within shift (34-66%): Bending/Stooping, Pushing/Pulling, Lift/carry up to 20lbs, Lift/carry greater than 20 lbs. with assistance.

Occasionally within shift (1-33%): Sitting, Climbing, Twist at waist, Lift/Carry greater than 50 lbs. with assistance, Reaching above shoulder.

Mission statement:

QUALITY HEALTHCARE: In our continuing effort to enhance the quality of life for the communities we serve, the Hospital Authority of Miller County is committed to the delivery of superior, safe, cost-effective healthcare through the provisions of education, prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Job specific competencies:

• Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert and assesses possible side effects of oxygen delivery.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric patients.
• Administers respiratory therapy treatments and understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Sets up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning.
• Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.
• Performs arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis, and understands the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure.
• Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures.
• Documents all pertinent data on the patient's medical record following completion of any service.
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks, and their proper usage.
• Performs all duties as outlined in the "Shift Responsibilities:" section for the shift that the therapist works.
• Performs EKGs, types report interpretations, sends reports to physicians who requested them, and files reports in the department, according to department procedures.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health errors
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.
• Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning; the patient's family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients' needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.
• Demonstrates ability to assess the patient, his/her needs, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.

Requirements:

Education, credentials & experience requirements:

• Current GA Respiratory Therapist Licensure.
• Graduate of an AMA-approved School of Respiratory Therapy with proof of diploma.
• NBRC Certification.
• Active American Heart Association BLS certification within 30 days of hire.
• Active American Heart Association ACLS & PALS certification within three (3) months of hire.
• Imminent Delivery certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Must be willing to be on call as required.