Certified Respiratory Therapist

Certified Respiratory TherapistThe Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) performs diagnostic tests, provides therapeutic interventions, and responds to medical emergencies throughout the hospital participating in CPR and intubation, as required. The RCP evaluates the patient's response to therapy administered and recommends and implements modifications to the respiratory care plan based on this evaluated response. The RCP provides education to the patient, family and public. The RCP, under the supervision of a physician, provides age-appropriate care to all groups served.The evaluation is to assure individual performance, departmental goals and organizational goals are aligned. It is designed to support communication between the manager and the employee. Employee perception of their own performance is very important. To maximize the benefit of this process, both the manager and the employee participate in the evaluation process.QualificationsKnowledge, Skills and AbilitiesExcellent customer service skills.Reads and understands the English language.Ability to think critically and analytically with little or no supervisionAbility to work effectively in situations of high stress and conflict and communicate goals and outcomes.Ability to process information and prioritizePossesses exceptional verbal and written communication skillsPossesses independent work habits, is self-reliant and self-directedAbility to learn, adapt, and change as required by the job functionsAbility to maintain absolute confidentiality of material and information accessed and reviewedBasic computer literacyAbility to move freely, reach, bend, and complete light liftingAbility to use good body mechanics while performing daily job functions and ability to follow specific OSHA guidelinesAbility to maintain attendance to meet standard job practicesEducationHigh School diploma or GEDGraduated from an AMA-approved Respiratory Care ProgramLicensureCredentialed (CRT,RRT) by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) or board-eligibleCurrent or temporary license from the State of GeorgiaCurrent CPRExperience1 year experience in an acute care setting (preferred)Interpersonal skillsEssential technical/motor skillsEssential physical requirementsLight: Exert up to 20 lb. of force occasionally and/or up to 10 lb. of force frequently - greater than 75%Essential mental requirementsEssential sensory requirementsOtherAbility to function independentlyAbility to function effectively in a team-oriented environmentComputer knowledgeEquipment usedOther QualificationsExposure to hazards (body fluid exposure level) Level IAge of Patient Populations ServedNeonates 1 - 30 daysInfants 30 days - 1 yearChildren 1 - 12 yearsAdolescents 13 - 18 yearsAdults 19 - 70 yearsGeriatrics - 70+ yearsJob Specific Duties and Performance StandardsPerforms diagnostic tests (Arterial Blood Gases, sputum inductions, Electrocardiograms, Electroencephalograms, Peak Expiratory Flow Rates, Pulmonary Function Studies and Stress Tests) according to department policy, following physician's orders. NOTE: CLIA regulations are based on the complexity of the test method. CLIA categorizes analysis of Arterial Blood Gases [ABG's] as moderate complexity testing. Staff that has demonstrated competency in this area does not require direct supervision to perform this task.Inserts radial arterial lines following departmental policy.Administers therapies and/or treatment modalities (pharmacological agents, oxygen administration, mechanical ventilation, airway care and bronchopulmonary hygiene) according to department policy following physician's orders.Assesses patients for appropriateness of therapy.Evaluates the patient's response to therapy administered, consults with the ordering physician: recommends and implements modifications to the respiratory care plan.Participates in the code blue team: performs CPR, inserts artificial airway and/or intubates, as required.Stocks crash cart and other supplies, as needed.Performs equipment maintenance, cleaning, calibration, etc. according to department policy.Charges for all services provided.Performs all duties in according with CRMC Infection Control Standards.Communicates all clinical problems or patients requiring further evaluation to department management.Keeps current in the profession.Participates in special projects as directed by Director/Assistant Director.Participates in the department's PI initiatives.Performs other tasks/procedures as requested by the Director/Assistant Director.