RESPIRATORY THERAPIST

Job Details Job Location: Modesto, CA 95350 Position Type: Full Time Salary Range: $45.00 - $50.00 Hourly Position: Respiratory Therapist (Nursing Department) Position Summary The licensed and credentialed Respiratory Therapist performs duties and tasks of a respiratory care practitioner. Upon the request of a physician, the Respiratory Therapist sets up and operates various types of respiratory care equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disease or illness. Responsibilities Explain to residents the purpose and procedure of treatments, tests, and equipment. Use knowledge of growth and development principles to anticipate care needs of residents in adult and geriatric stages. Apply criteria for recognition of abuse and follow policy for appropriate referral or intervention. Conduct physician‑prescribed daily use of ventilator machines and various oxygen devices, nebulizer and ultrasonic nebulizer. Perform chest physical therapy treatments involving percussion, postural drainage, and suctioning to mobilize secretions and mucus. Set up, operate, and monitor ventilators when residents require mechanical ventilation. Ensure adequate maintenance of ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Perform pulmonary function studies to determine volume, distribution, and movement of air in the respiratory system. Record all pertinent information of treatments and resident response in respiratory care records and resident charts. Maintain and record daily ventilator monitoring, internal and external battery logs, and ventilator weaning logs. Perform pulse oximetry, set up oxygen via nasal cannula and simple face mask, and assist residents with transfer in and out of bed. Report to relief personnel the condition of residents and treatments to be administered. Process respiratory therapy equipment – cleaning, sterilizing, and packaging as required. Conduct regular rounds to check residents’ oxygen equipment, replace humidifiers, and spot‑check other respiratory therapy equipment. Participate in the Hazardous Materials Program and follow safety protocols related to blood, body fluids, communicable diseases, sharp objects, chemicals, and gases. Perform other tasks as identified by the Director of Nursing and Clinical Nurse Manager. Demonstrate knowledge of, and respect for, the rights, dignity, and individuality of each resident in all interactions. Maintain confidentiality of resident and facility information. Show honesty and integrity at all times in the care and use of resident and facility property. Provide care in emergency situations and follow established emergency procedures. Maintain knowledge of resident care activities to promote, maintain, and restore health for assigned residents. Ensure residents’ rights are respected by allowing for privacy and dignity in the provision of care. Communicate effectively with residents, families, physicians, and other healthcare providers. Prepare documentation accurately and thoroughly in the prescribed style and format. Relate and work effectively with others, demonstrating discretion, practice, tact, and diplomacy. Prioritize multiple assignments without sacrificing quality. Show good judgment, organization, time‑management, and follow‑through skills. Adapt to changing environments and work well under pressure. Effectively use organization and problem‑solving skills under pressure. Maintain visual acuity to observe instrument details required for life‑support. Be self‑initiated, highly motivated, and able to research available resources. Maintain a professional appearance and presentation skills for outcomes and recommendations. Apply other responsibilities as assigned. Qualifications / Requirements Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy. License: Current, valid Respiratory Therapist licensure in the state and credentialed by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Certification: Current Basic Life Support Certification. Work Experience: Broad knowledge of respiratory care principles, procedures, and practice. Previous clinical experience as a Respiratory Therapist, Cardiology Technician, or similar position. Experience caring for patients with technology dependency. Ability to perform basic patient care tasks, including performing a 12‑lead EKG. Knowledge of OBRA and Title XXII guidelines for long‑term care. Independent work capability and reliability in treating residents with disease or injury. Language Skills: Read, analyze, and interpret technical information; communicate verbally in English. Mathematical Skills: Perform arithmetic operations with units of measure, weight, and volume. Communication Skills: Exceptional customer service, empathy, and effective communication with patients, families, staff, and external resources. Physical Capacities Move intermittently throughout the workday; push, pull, or grab frequently; lift up to 40 pounds and carry up to 20 pounds. Stand, walk, talk, hear, see, and feel for extended periods. Use prosthetics as needed to fulfill sensory requirements. Meet general health requirements, including annual TB screening and physical exam. Handle mental and emotional stress associated with the position. Environmental Conditions Work inside the facility with normal temperatures, some noise, occasional fumes or odors, chemical exposure, and potential exposure to blood‑borne pathogens. The position requires a 24‑hour skilled care environment serving disabled or cognitively impaired residents in an aging population. Stressors include emergency response, weekend and holiday duty, challenging resident behaviors, family reactions, death and dying, oversight by state surveyors, and interactions with medical staff and attorneys. HIPAA and Mandated Reporting All healthcare personnel must comply with HIPAA and act as Mandated Reporters regarding suspected elder abuse. The Respiratory Therapist may access protected health information (PHI) and is responsible for following all company policies and procedures. #J-18808-Ljbffr