Respiratory Therapist

Summary Under the supervision of the Respiratory Therapy Supervisor the Respiratory Therapist delivers direct respiratory care to subacute care patients as assigned. The therapist plans, implements and evaluates the effectiveness of respiratory care provided at the Children’s Recovery Center. The Respiratory Therapist acts as resource person to other therapists, nurses and physicians regarding the respiratory care of patients in their assigned area. Participates in clinical in‑service education and training concerning respiratory care policies and procedures. Essential Job Functions Provides direct patient care respiratory services as assigned. Coordinates and monitors patient care according to departmental policies and procedures. Sets up, adjusts and manages patients on continuous mechanical ventilation which includes maintenance of airway patency, auctioning, stabilizing trach tubes, monitoring cuff pressures, ensuring ventilators are delivering proper volume, mode of ventilation, pressures, respiratory rates and oxygen concentration. When indicated, weans patients from continuous ventilation according to established procedures. Documents all therapeutic and diagnostic activities and results in the patient’s medical record including but not limited to: date, time and duration of therapy medications administered, power source, supplemental O2 (if any), heart and respiratory rate, breath sounds, description of sputum production and cough, complications or adverse effects (if any) response to therapy and general observations. Assesses the appropriateness of respiratory care ordered and discusses variances with primary physician when necessary. Formulates an appropriate Respiratory Care plan based upon patient assessment. Monitors and identifies problem regarding quality assurance. Communicates effectively with all physicians utilizing respiratory care services in clinical area. Participates in patient rounds in designated clinical area and serves as respiratory care resource person to other members of the health‑care team. Communicates changes in the respiratory care plan with other healthcare team members. Explains treatment procedures to patients and/or family members to allay fears and elicit cooperation and ensures patient education regarding the pulmonary system. Participates in meetings and conferences designated to expedite and improve delivery of respiratory care. Proposes, develops, and helps implement techniques, methodology, and treatment modalities related to respiratory care. Assists in development of new clinical procedures in designate area. Performs emergency and acute Respiratory Care procedures in accordance with service policy and procedures. Responds to all cardiopulmonary arrest and performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation and airway care as needed. Identifies the need for development of improved documentation forms. Identifies problem areas regarding departmental, staff and patient safety. Performs peer review of other therapists working in area of responsibility. Provides input to supervisor regarding staffing, equipment, and supply needs. Assembles, checks and corrects malfunctions and performs quality controls on respiratory care equipment. Maintains clinical and professional competency based upon established standards of practice. Supervisory Responsibilities None required. Minimum Knowledge and Skills required by the Job Education and Experience Graduation from an approved program in Respiratory Therapy. Associate’s Degree in Respiratory Care Technology preferred. Two years’ experience. Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations Current California credential to practice Respiratory Care. Registered Respiratory Therapist or eligible for registration by the National Board of Respiratory Care. Other Skills and Abilities Ability to apply pediatric respiratory principles in the clinical setting. Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills required. Ability to problem solve. PALS certification required. (May complete after hire) Physical Requirements Medium Work. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Ability to successfully demonstrate Respiratory Care competencies required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk. The employee is frequently required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel or crouch. The employee must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday. The employee must be in good health and demonstrate emotional stability so that they are able to cope with mental and emotional stress of the position. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Employee must be able to assist in evacuation of children during emergency situations. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr