Respiratory Therapist Registered

Respiratory Therapist

Provides respiratory care services to patients who require emergency care, intensive care, therapeutic treatment, invasive and non-invasive monitoring, diagnostic testing and patient education for pulmonary and cardiopulmonary disorders. Monitors and maintains equipment and participates in quality assurance and improvement activities.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

1. Interviews, examines and assesses patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders.
2. Consults with physicians to develop patient treatment plans. Creates therapy programs for patients based on the instructions of physicians and assessment findings.
3. Performs diagnostic tests such as measuring lung capacity, takes blood samples and uses a blood gas analyzer to test oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
4. Treats patients using a variety of methods, including chest physiotherapy, aerosol medications and non-invasive methods such as CPAP and BIPAP therapies. May connect, monitor, and treat patients who cannot breathe on their own to ventilators.
5. Monitors and records the progress of treatment.
6. Instructs and monitors respiratory therapy interns during clinical rotations throughout hospital.
7. Teaches patients how to use treatments.
8. Operates and maintains respiratory equipment. Assists in the review and evaluation of equipment and supplies.
9. Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies. May develop and conduct in-service training programs.
10. Participates in departmental quality assurance and improvement program. Assists in the review and/or development of departmental policies and procedures in order to improve work processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and reduce waste and expenses.
11. Maintains all required documentation, logs, charts, and forms and records in paper and electronic formats.
12. Performs other related duties as required and directed.

Required:

• Associate degree in a Respiratory Therapist Educational Program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
• Current state licensure as a respiratory therapist.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) through the NBRC.
• BLS certification.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree.

Subsidiary Specific Qualifications:

• ALS certification