Under the supervision of the Critical Care Medical Director and Department Manager, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing respiratory care services in accordance with specific physician's orders, department policies and procedures.

NON-EXEMPT

Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert to and assess possible side effects to oxygen delivery.

Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.

Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning.

Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation. Makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.

Performs arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis, and understands the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure.

Performs A-Line draws to obtain arterial blood for analysis.

Performs intubations

Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures.

Documents all pertinent data on the patient's medical record following completion of any service.

Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks and their proper usage.

Performs EKGs

Demonstrates knowledge and 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.

Follows the five (5) medication rights and reduces the potential for 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.

Maintains thorough knowledge of hazards of oxygen therapy.

Formulates 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.

Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients' needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.

Demonstrates ability to assess patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.

Demonstrates the ability to deal with pressure to meet deadlines, to be accurate, and to handle constantly changing situations.

Demonstrates the ability to deal with a variety of people, deal with stressful situations, and handle conflict.

Attends education inservice programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.

Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department manager.

In charge therapist role, is responsible for the daily operation of the shift, including work assignments, troubleshooting, responding to emergencies, and liaison with physicians.

Remain proficient in PFT's and Bronchoscopes'.

Professional Requirements:

Adheres to dress code.

Completes annual educational requirements.

Maintains regulatory requirements.

Wears identification while on duty.

Maintains confidentiality at all times.

Attends department staff meetings as required within the department.

Reports to work on time and as scheduled; completes work in designated time.

Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.

Actively participates in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities.

Coordinates efforts in meeting regulatory compliance, federal, state and local regulations and standards

Communicates and complies with the Benefis Health System Mission, Vision and Values as well as the focus statement of the department.

Complies with Benefis Health System Organization Policies and Procedures.

Complies with Health and Safety Standards and Guidelines.