Pulmonary Function Tech

Summary Under the general supervision of the Director of Pediatric Pulmonology, and following standard policies and procedures, performs diagnostic pulmonary function tests (PFT) on patients using spirometers, gas analyzers, oximeters, and related equipment to evaluate and test for lung disease. When assisting a physician, obtains washing samples, tissue samples, and performs procedures within the lung using bronchoscopy tools. Brown University Health employees are expected to model the organization’s values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence in daily actions with patients, customers, and colleagues. Responsibilities Testing Receive orders for pulmonary function tests (PFT) from physicians and review patient medical records, informing the physician of any prior testing difficulties. Explain procedures and breathing maneuvers to patients to allay fears and obtain accurate results. Record data, read graphical data from tests, and perform routine calculations. Perform a variety of diagnostic PFT procedures, including: Routine PFT studies using spirometer, body box, and gas analyzer Drawing arterial blood gas Measuring peak cough flow, FeNO Methacholine challenge testing Impulse oscillometry and infant oximetry Advanced testing such as CO diffusing capacity, lung volumes, and respiratory muscle pressures Monitoring patients during six-minute walk tests and tcPCO2 Assist in other procedures as needed, including bronchoscopy assistance. Lab Management Maintain PFT lab supplies; follow infection prevention and control guidelines and HEPA filtration unit maintenance. Calibrate and maintain testing equipment; identify and resolve technical problems. Maintain oxygen e-Cylinder for PFT lab and a portable suction machine; stock supplies. Maintain a clean work environment. Testing Equipment Calibrate and maintain spirometer and laptop; troubleshoot with the Respiratory and Immunology Center and satellite offices. Maintain spirometer supplies by ordering and restocking. General Respiratory Care Obtain sputum samples (tracheal aspirate, throat swab, induction). Assist in respiratory care for VIP, CF, Pediatric Pulmonology, and Asthma clinics; conduct annual CF patient care plan reviews. Maintain medication supplies (bronchodilators, mucolytics, hydration, provocholine) and assist providers with bronchoscopy procedures by preparing equipment and taking samples, cytological washings, and tissue biopsy using bronchoscope and biopsy brush. Coordinate with departments to obtain equipment and supplies, maintain clean storage, and ensure scope disinfection before use; maintain bronchoscope travel bag with supplies. Order materials for biopsy/cytology transport and other procedure needs as directed. Educate Patients and Families Act as respiratory therapy liaison for pulmonologists and other staff regarding inpatient care, equipment, or testing as needed. Educate on proper use of inhaled medications and delivery devices; explain inhalation orders and airway clearance techniques (Chest PT, Autogenic Drainage, PEP/OPEP devices, vest therapies, etc.). Provide high-tech equipment education (ventilators, CPAP/BiPAP, cough assist devices); tracheostomy care; pulse oximetry; create cough assist care plans for CF patients; complete annual CF visits and update care plans with expert guidance for airway clearance and equipment use. Teach cleaning and disinfection of devices/equipment at home and in hospital settings; educate coworkers/nurses on airway clearance and medication delivery. Administrative and Other Duties Perform clinical administrative tasks such as managing patient test results, documenting and scanning, and sending results to the ordering provider in the EMR; participate in quality improvement projects and develop educational tools. Attend national/regional conferences and staff/administrative meetings as needed. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma plus AMA-approved Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy. Certification or registry required. Licensed as a Respiratory Care Practitioner in the State of Rhode Island. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Knowledge of test procedures and patient responses during testing. Ability to care for patients across aging, development, and cultural contexts. Experience One year of related experience preferred. Work Environment and Physical Requirements Works in a patient care environment requiring physical and mental effort to interact with patients, families, and hospital staff. Additional Information Pay Range: $34.01-$55.55. Brown University Health is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse, respectful, inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment. Location: Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI. Work Type: M-Saturday 8A-6P as scheduled. Union: United Nurses And Allied Professionals. Brown University Health comprises multiple hospitals and affiliated centers offering a wide range of health services. #J-18808-Ljbffr