Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory TherapistAssess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.Demonstrates competency in respiratory therapeutics and in the use of non-invasive ventilators, pulmonary diagnostics, and other equipment required for the provision of respiratory care. Maintains accurate and precise documentation. Demonstrates a strong power of analytical reasoning and effectively blends patient care management skills with technical expertise. Communicates openly and effectively with all members of the healthcare team. Demonstrates proficiency in quality control and maintenance of arterial blood gas analyzers, specimen collection, and analysis of blood for gas transport and acid/base determinations. Maintains reasonably regular, punctual attendance consistent with Orlando Health policies, the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards. Maintains compliance with all Orlando Health policies and procedures.Demonstrates knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the patient's age and medical condition. Demonstrates expertise in medical gas administration, environmental control systems, humidification, medication delivery, non-invasive ventilatory support, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Instructs clinical practicum students. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate for the age of the patients served on their assigned unit. Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possesses the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status. Interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age-specific needs and provides the care needed as described in the unit's/area's/department's policies and procedures.Education/Training: Associate of Science in Respiratory Care or Cardiopulmonary Sciences. (If licensed prior to December 31, 1987, a certificate of completion from an approved Respiratory Care program will be accepted). Must be eligible for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exam per NBRC guidelines. Basic computer/mechanical training required.Licensure/Certification: Maintains license as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) by the State of Florida Department of Health. RRT's registered on or after July 1, 2002, must maintain an active status with the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and be updated every five years. RRT's credentialed prior to July 1, 2002, are not required to renew every five years in accordance with NBRC. Maintains current BLS/HealthCare Provider certification.Experience: Knowledge of basic computer/mechanical training required.