Respiratory Therapist Specialist - Night shift

Respiratory Therapist Vascular Access Specialist ProTech - 6913

US:WA:Arlington | Clinical Support | Per Diem

Department: Respiratory Therapy CVH

Position Type: Per Diem

Location: Cascade Valley Hospital

The Respiratory Therapist - Vascular Access Specialist (RT-VAS), functions as a specialized Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) providing assessment, treatment and monitoring of patients with acute illness or cardiopulmonary compromise. This individual provides support for the equipment necessary in the care of these patients and assists physicians and other medical/surgical support staff in conducting activities necessary for interventions, physiological monitoring and direct patient care. Performs technical, physical and patient service functions needed in the Cardiopulmonary/Respiratory Therapy Department. Department operates under the professional guidance of a physician, and as written in Department and Hospital policy and procedure manuals. Incumbent may perform venous and arterial line placement and management. Delivers RT services as ordered by physician. The RT-VAS is dedicated to providing quality service in a timely, courteous, and cost effective manner.

The RT-VAS provides a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic respiratory care and cardiopulmonary services to patients of all age groups conducts and critical monitoring procedures in addition to routine Respiratory Therapy care to include:

Ultrasound use to include; Insertion, monitoring and troubleshoot of Arterial pressure monitoring lines

Participation in Resident's training, of Central Line insertion and sterile technique

This individual is a technical and educational resource for patients, family members and other members of the patient care team. The RT-VAS will assess data reflective of the patient's status and appropriately interprets information relative to the patient's age-specific needs. The RT-VAS must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development of the life span. The RT-VAS will be competent working with patients in the Emergency Department, PACU, AC, and Critical Care and may also function as the shift Lead Therapist.

Knowledge and Standards of Performance: RT-VAS are responsible for cardiopulmonary emergencies providing airway management, as well as manual and mechanical ventilatory support using a variety of devices and techniques; administering therapeutic gases, inhaled aerosol medications and humidity therapy; obtaining, reviewing and interpreting data as well as assessing the need for and response to respiratory care interventions with medical and nursing personnel to optimize patient care planning; performing arterial blood gas analysis as well as the running, maintenance and upkeep of the blood gas machine; upon completion of certification and or competency demonstration in Vascular Access skills, works with Vascular Access team responsible for patient assessment and evaluation in collaboration with physician, nursing and pharmacy regarding appropriate line placement for specific IV therapy involved; care and maintenance of Central lines; smoking cessation, self-administration and proper use of equipment and supplies; ability to establish and maintain productive and positive working relationships with internal and external customers; Knowledgeable of the various needs of patients due to their age and determine appropriate care. Responsible for completion of all procedures scheduled in a timely manner without compromising quality. Keeps current on performing emergency department procedures; respiratory and/or cardiopulmonary modalities; Use proper procedures for infection control.

Processes and Procedures: Perform exams in accordance with approved departmental and hospital policies and procedures while meeting the standards of performance as required by accrediting agencies and the Medical Director of Respiratory Care as well as utilizing proper procedures to insure patient safety while in department. Utilizes division and unit documentation tools according to established guidelines. Collaborates with other healthcare professionals to train and teach or instruct personnel or patients regarding vascular access devices

Knowledge/Use of Equipment: Be knowledgeable of all equipment within the Respiratory Care Department, including manual and electronic equipment related to Central Lines in accordance with approved departmental and hospital policies and procedures.

Demonstrates responsible use of resources, including time, facilities, supplies, equipment, staff, information, finances, education and developmental assets. Uses and disposes of confidential information appropriately. Cares for equipment properly. Shares responsibility in facility upkeep (i.e.: see it, own it, do it, solve it). Maintain ability to effectively utilize Microsoft Office (Outlook) and department specific software applications to perform work. Actively contribute to the achievement of Quality Improvement and Lean Process Improvement activities. Comply with all Skagit Regional Health, department and location specific policies and procedures. Graduate of an AMA approved school of Respiratory Therapy, AAS required. Credentialed through the NBRC, registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) required. Experience/Training: A minimum of three years' experience as a Registered Respiratory Therapist preferred. Minimum of three years of recent hospital critical care experience preferred. Must have excellent understanding of all equipment and procedures performed routinely in a hospital Cardiopulmonary/Respiratory Therapy department.

License/Certifications: Licensed as a Respiratory Care Practitioner by the State of Washington. Must obtain RRT within the introductory period. American Heart Association Healthcare Provider BLS required. Advanced skills in critical care and in-depth knowledge of hemodynamic monitoring required. Ability to work flexible hours, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays required. Adapts well and calmly to unpredictable situations within the patient care settings. Must have effective interpersonal skills, patient assessment skills and basic computer skills.

Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Skagit Regional Health