Registered Respiratory Therapist - Lourdes WCH Campus- Nights

Job Description The Registered Respiratory Therapist participates in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with pulmonary disorders. Therapists are responsible for the initiation and management of Life Support Systems under the direction of the physician. The RRT may perform all tasks included in their license practice act within department guidelines and policies. The RRT must function with limited supervision, relying on their education and the guidance of the physician and supervisory staff. Responsibilities TECHNICAL TASKS: Delivers standardized therapeutic respiratory therapy procedures in accordance with criteria in accordance with clinical practice guidelines. Maintains complete, accurate, and concise records in full accord with Hospital and Department Policy and Procedures. Participates in fiberoptic bronchoscopies through preparation and monitoring of the patient, assists the physician with the procedure, handles specimens, performs post procedure care of the patient, and maintains the bronchoscopy equipment. Performs Basic Spirometry studies, ensuring the necessary equipment is calibrated, test results are accurate and posted on patient\'s chart as soon as possible. Identifies risks, hazards, and complications of performing arterial punctures. Demonstrates proficiency in arterial punctures ensuring hazards and complications are minimized. Assists physicians and nurses in cardiopulmonary stress lab- and operating the Cardio 2 computer. Demonstrates proficiency with age groups—adults, geriatrics, pediatrics, and infants as outlined in relation to level of service. Meets expectations of required competencies for Respiratory Therapy. CRITICAL THINKING: Demonstrates the Clinical Goals of Oxygen Therapy administration; has the knowledge to assess adequacy of patient\'s response to therapy or need for therapy. Is skilled in recognition of signs suggesting the possibility or presence of cardiopulmonary arrest and initiation of resuscitation and life-support measures in adult, children, and infants, certified in CPR. Responsible for assessment of the patients for distress that requires immediate therapeutic intervention, emergent problems immediately recognized and managed in all critical situations. Demonstrates the ability to assess a situation, considers the alternatives and properly choose an appropriate course of action. Understands the technical components of the ventilators, the pathophysiology of the respiratory system, and patient ventilator interaction in managing ventilator patient\'s outcomes. Is a resource person for new employees and certified therapist in complex ventilatory management. Demonstrates proficiency in the analysis of arterial blood samples, assess the values for consistency, identifies the factors contributing to any observed abnormalities and recommends appropriate therapeutic intervention. Demonstrates leadership abilities as Team Leader, teacher, and role model. Sets goals and plans and organizes activities so as to achieve optimum and efficient patient care. Attempts to complete all assignments and minimize rework. Consistently astute and conscientious in the observation, assessment and reporting of the patient\'s status or needs to appropriate personnel. Participates in staff development by being a resource person and mentor to new employees and certified therapists as well as educator to patients and families about respiratory procedures and disease processes. Other duties: Consistently performs 12 organizational Service Standards focused on Values, Service and Quality. Qualifications Education: Associate\'s Degree or equivalent from a CoArc approved program (10 years experience as licensed therapist substitutes for Associate\'s Degree) BLS required, ACLS and PALS required within 6 months of hire (NRP also required within 6 months of hire for Women\'s and Children\'s positions) Successful completion of both the Certified and Registered exams administered by the NBRC. Current NBRC required. Current Louisiana state license or temporary permit issued by LSBME #J-18808-Ljbffr