Job Description
Position General Summary: Respiratory Therapist care for all people with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system. Under the general supervision of the physician, they deliver care to patient using assessment, treatment, evaluation and diagnostic testing. The therapist will collaborate with other service areas to help achieve the best patient outcomes. This position is an Essential position at the facility to ensure efficient operations and patient care. Employees hired into an Essential position are expected to report to work for their scheduled shifts regardless of the environmental weather and road conditions that may exist. Position Duties and Responsibilities: Respiratory Therapist provides direct and individualized care to patients. Responsibilities of the Respiratory Therapist include (but are not limited to): Initial assessment with an on-going assessment of the patient’s status Delivers oxygen therapy as per physician orders Delivers medication via nebulizer or MDI inhaler as per physician orders Educates patient/family members concerning disease process, medications, testing and etc. Performs physician ordered testing of patients such as pulse oximetry, EKG, Arterial Blood Gas, Holter Monitoring, Carbon Dioxide Monitoring and Pulmonary Function Testing Assist in managing basic and advanced life support needs of each patient along with other professional disciplines including airway management, ventilator support, BiPAP/CPAP Records all patients information concisely, accurately, and completely: in a timely manner, in the correct format, and in the appropriate place within the electronic health record Displays professionalism at all times Maintains proper supplies to care for patients Reports any unexpected cardiopulmonary events immediately to eh physician Cleans and maintains medical equipment as per manufacture’s guidelines Serves as Monitor Tech and Med-Surg Unit Clerk When not providing Respiratory Therapy services Sits with 1:1 Observation patients as needed Facility General Responsibilities: Attend facility new hire orientation as scheduled by HR Complete Department Orientation Initial Competency within 7 days of hire date Complete Department Initial Skills Competency within 90 days of hire date Follow facility and OSHA safety rules and procedures Respect cultural and religious practices of patients from all backgrounds Follow HIPAA regulations at all times Be punctual and dependent for assigned shifts Dress within the dress code requirements of the facility Identifies all patients using at least two identifiers verbally (name and DOB), and by checking ID bracelet Follows Hospital Wide and Department Specific policies and procedures Must interact with physicians, guest, staff, and patients pleasantly, cooperatively, and effectively at all times in a courteous, respectful, and professional manner. Must be able to pass drug screens, both pre-employment and throughout duration of employment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Sound understanding of respiratory therapy practices and accepted standards of care Critical thinking and problem solving abilities Good communication skills with ability to communicate appropriately with all age groups Ability to perform under stress and cope with difficult situations Good time management and organizational skills to complete patient care and documentation each shift Position Requirements: Education, Work Experience, Licensure, Certifications; Currently Certified or Registered Respiratory Therapist, in good standing with the State of Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care 1 year of Respiratory Therapy experience is preferred Current Basic Life Support ACLS, PALS, and NRP must be obtained within 90 days of hire date Working Conditions: Patients need round-the-clock care; therefore working hours include days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Respiratory Therapist spend a considerable amount of time walking, bending, stretching, standing, and assisting in patient transfers; therefore they must follow proper body mechanics to guard against injury. Respiratory Therapist must be able to work accurately around frequent interruptions. Respiratory Therapist may also face hazards from exposure to chemicals and infectious diseases. In addition, Respiratory Therapist treats patients that may be confused, irrational, agitated, and/or uncooperative. Physical Requirements / Demands: <