Respiratory Therapist - PRN Nightshift

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview

General Summary of Position
This role requires a solid understanding of respiratory care to cater to diverse patient demographics, ensuring that techniques align with their chronological, social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The respiratory care provided is based on physician orders and adheres to established standards, practices, and protocols.

Key Responsibilities

• Supports the achievement of departmental goals and objectives while following established policies, procedures, quality standards, and safety regulations. Ensures compliance with governmental and accreditation requirements.
• Evaluates the physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and cultural aspects of patients, along with their educational needs, and accurately documents findings.
• Administers all respiratory therapy treatments and services, which include but are not limited to: operating, monitoring, and managing all relevant equipment. Services encompass oxygen therapy, mixed gases, humidity, ventilators (both invasive and non-invasive), bronchial hygiene, lung expansion techniques, spirometry testing, EKG monitoring, and blood gas analysis.
• Utilizes therapeutic communication, interviewing techniques, problem-solving skills, and crisis intervention strategies while delivering patient care.
• Reviews electronic medical records and physician orders consistently throughout the work shift.
• Engages in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by maintaining airways and providing oxygen and ventilation through masks, endotracheal tubes, or other devices, as well as performing closed-chest cardiac massage.
• Enhances workflow efficiency by monitoring interdepartmental systems and processes, adhering to departmental policies, and suggesting improvements as necessary.
• Undertakes additional duties relevant to the position and area. The responsibilities listed above provide a general overview of the nature and level of work associated with this classification and are not exhaustive.
• Adheres to all organizational policies and standards.
• Effectively and efficiently utilizes all organizational resources.
• Refers to competency validation documents for the populations served when applicable.

Minimum QualificationsEducation

• Associate’s degree from an AMA-accredited respiratory care program with an AAS Degree or higher is required.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related healthcare field is preferred.

Experience

• Less than one year of acute care experience is required. Registry eligibility is necessary.

Licenses and Certifications

• Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) - Must maintain a valid license to practice respiratory care in Maryland and/or the District of Columbia, depending on the hospital's location.
• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) - Must be licensed as a CRT by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) - Preferred certification from the NBRC.
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) - Certification (including BLS and NRP) for healthcare providers from either the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross is required within 90 days.
• Additional unit or specialty certifications may vary by department.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) - Required within one year, along with other certifications such as NRP and PALS where applicable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive understanding of human respiratory anatomy, physiology, and pathology as they relate to respiratory care. Proficient in operating respiratory care equipment and applying it in clinical settings. Ability to identify hazardous conditions related to respiratory care and implement corrective measures. Capable of working with patients across all age groups, from neonates to geriatrics. Must maintain composure and effectiveness under pressure. Strong teamwork skills and the ability to communicate clearly with diverse individuals are essential.

Compensation: This position offers a salary range of USD $35.68 - USD $64.71 per hour.