Registered Respiratory Therapist - Respiratory Therapy - Kings Hwy

Respiratory Therapist

This job provides respiratory care treatment, oxygen services, diagnostic testing and ventilation support services to both in-patients and out-patients ranging in age from neonatal to geriatric. The RT-CRT set-ups, monitors and weans Oxygen Therapy and Artificial ventilation. The RT-CRT draws, analyzes and reports Arterial Blood Gases and EKGs. The RT-CRT delivers intermittent therapy and assists with changing of artificial airways. The RT-CRT provides services as ordered by a physician and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Ochsner's discretion.

Preferred Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred Work Experience

None.

Preferred Certifications

Current License as a Respiratory Therapist in the state of practice

Certification by the National Board of Respiratory Care as a Registered Respiratory Therapist

Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association

ACLS obtained in 90 days

Minimum Education

Associate's Degree

Minimum Work Experience Required

None

Minimum Certifications

Current License as a Respiratory Therapist in the state of practice

Credentialed by the National Board of Respiratory Care as a Certified Respiratory Therapist

Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification from the American Heart Association

Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certification (only for trained therapists working in the NICU)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) must be obtained within 90 days of hire

Knowledge Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Must have computer skills and dexterity required for data entry and retrieval of information.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally.
• Must be proficient with Windows-style applications, various software packages specific to role and keyboard.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Job Duties

• Performs routine and advanced therapeutic procedures according to established policy and procedure.
• Reviews and documents all clinical information regarding each patient.
• Educates patients and co-workers on procedures and treatment plans.
• Performs diagnostic procedures.
• Provides care based on physical; psycho/social, educational, safety and related criteria, appropriate to the age of patient served in assigned area.
• Adapts behavior to the specific patient population, including but not limited to: respect for privacy, method of introduction to the patient, adapting explanation of services or procedures to be performed, requesting permissions and communication style.

Other related duties as required. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time. Remains knowledgeable on current federal, state and local laws, accreditation standards or regulatory agency requirements that apply to the assigned area of responsibility and ensures compliance with all such laws, regulations and standards.

Complies with the Ochsner Health System Compliance & Privacy Program and Standards of Conduct, including the immediate reporting of any known or suspected unethical or questionable behaviors or conduct; patient/employee safety, patient privacy, and/or other compliance-related concerns. Ochsner is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Physical and Environmental Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Very Heavy Work - Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Heavy Work. (Constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible.

Mechanical lifting devices (carts, dollies, etc.) or team lifts should be utilized. Must be able to stoop, bend, reach and grab with arms and hands, manual dexterity. Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to travel throughout and between facilities. Must be able to work a flexible work schedule (24/7, weekend, holiday, on call availability). Duties performed routinely require exposure to blood, body fluid and tissue. The incumbent works in a patient care area; works in an area where patients enter; works directly with patients; and/or works with specimens that could contain diseases. There may be an occupational risk for exposure to all communicable diseases.