Respiratory Therapist | PRN

About the Role

• Job Functions:
• Verbalizes knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment required to deliver the therapy. Assesses for and documents side effects, when found, to oxygen therapy.
• Administers respiratory therapy treatments in all nursing and care units (ED, OB, OCU, etc). Is able to describe the purpose of therapy and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Sets up and monitors mechanical ventilators and BiPAP and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning. Completes competency in ventilator support and intubation per policy.
• Assesses and documents patient pain level prior to providing treatments. - Makes appropriate RN or physician contact for pain treatment intervention.
• Performs and documents arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis, and is able to verbalize the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure. Completes competency in ABG draws per policy.
• Complies with departmental equipment cleaning procedures, labeling equipment as "clean' when cleaning is complete.
• Documents correctly and completely all pertinent data on the patient's medical record following completion of any service. Charges correctly for services in a timely manner.
• Maintains the departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks, etc. in a constant state of completeness and readiness for use.
• Performs all duties for the department when working: maintains inventory, orders supplies, 'stickering', delivering supplies, checking code carts, etc.
• Reviews and updates policies and procedures every six months as evidenced by the signing of the signature sheet in the manual.
• Is able to discuss their knowledge and their understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients, as well as the general patient population.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients. Completes drug calculations as requested by Pharmacy to document competency.
• Follows the five (5) medication rights and reduces the potential for medication errors as evidenced by no medication errors.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently. IE. May be the department PFT software/computer super-user.
• Develops, delivers and documents a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning. Patient's family is included in teaching, as appropriate and involvement is documented.
• Treats patients, families and coworkers with respect and dignity as evidenced by interactions with others.
• Demonstrates ability to assess the patient=s need for and the ability to tolerate treatments. Re-assesses and documents response to each treatment/intervention.
• Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.
• Performs duties as assigned including, but not limited to, creating work and call schedules, Quality Improvement projects, and other duties