Job Description:

Respiratory Therapist

Job Summary:

Demonstrates a solid knowledge and working proficiency in the skills of Respiratory Care practices, procedures and techniques and is responsible for the patients that are assigned to his/her care within the practices of Respiratory Care.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

The following is a summary of the major functions of this individual's job.  He or she may perform other duties, both major and minor, which are not mentioned below, and specific functions may change from time to time.

1. Follows department policies and procedures.

2. Performs, assesses, and instructs the effective administration of oxygen and other prescribed respiratory medications, humidification, incentive spirometry, suctioning, and chest physiotherapy.  Patient/family education will include the safe and effective use of equipment, and effects of medication where pertinent.

3. Manages and assesses patients on noninvasive and positive pressure mechanical ventilation.  Educates patient and family on issues pertinent to their care on the ventilator.  Manages ventilator (noninvasive and /or positive pressure) according to documented competency.  Follows the policies pertinent to the age population served.

4. Obtains arterial blood gases, processes the samples, and interprets the results.

5. Assesses and manages patients per the guidelines established in hospital policies regarding patients on oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, noninvasive and positive pressure mechanical ventilation.

6. Assesses patient’s response to therapy and makes recommendations to physicians.

7. Administers patient medication per the hospital policies and procedure .

8. Responds to all respiratory care pages in a timely manner.

9. Documents patient assessment, response to therapy and pertinent clinical information on approved forms and records.

10. Performs effective airway management, supportive ventilation, and chest compressions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

11. Takes and records verbal orders for respiratory procedures per policy.

12. Serves as a resource for nursing, physicians, and precepts orientees and students.

13. Assists in the maintenance of all Respiratory Care equipment.  Troubleshoots when necessary, and communicates equipment needs to supervisor.

14. Participates in Quality Improvement Activities.

15. Assists with educational programs that will help the staff improve their knowledge, attitude, and skills in relation to the needs of the services offered.

16.  Follows all infection control and safety policies of the hospital.

17. Serves as Charge Therapist when designated.

18. Complies with relevant local, state, and federal rules and regulations, laws and requirements of accrediting bodies and other external associations.

19. Performs additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Education, Training and Experience Required:

EXPERIENCE:   

Critical care and emergency care is preferred.

EDUCATION:      

Requires successful completion of accredited program for Respiratory Care and passing the national credential exam issued by the National Board for Respiratory Care.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:            

Active Kentucky Respiratory Care Practitioner License required. 

Must maintain active certification in Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support.

If you would like to be part of a growing family focused on supporting clinical excellence, teamwork and innovation, we urge you to apply now!

Baptist Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.