Respiratory Therapist

Description Lexington Regional Health Center Title: Respiratory Therapist Supervisor: Director of Respiratory Services Department: Respiratory Therapy FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Principle duties and responsibilities Assesses and administers respiratory services while utilizing appropriate therapies to treat patients with deficiencies of the cardiopulmonary system, by prescription or approved protocol under the supervision of the patient's Medical Provider and Director of Respiratory Services. Administers respiratory therapies such as: nebulizer treatments, oxygen therapy, inhaled medications, bronchial hygiene therapy, lung volume expansion therapy, etc. Reacts to patient's status changes and emergency situations appropriately and efficiently. Administers diagnostic testing to patients with cardio-pulmonary abnormalities such as EKG's, PFT's, Cardiac Stress Testing, ABG's, obtaining sputum cultures, Pulmonary Rehab, etc. Provides education to patients and families regarding lung diseases. This may include COPD, asthma, smoking cessation, etc. Performs a thorough patient assessment including listening to lung sounds, counting respirations, assessing work of breathing, etc. Thoroughly and accurately documents every procedure and assessment performed. Works with all age groups ranging from infants and pediatrics to adults. Trouble-shoots skills to adjust BIPAP/CPAP machines, oxygen equipment, ventilator, etc. Participates in patient care activities that could include blood exposure and risk to bloodborne pathogens (eg: lacerations, handling of blood-contaminated specimens, etc.) Responsible for safe bagging and disposal of biohazardous waste. Responsible for ensuring the environment meets appropriate governing body standards. Responsible for proper collection, storage and labeling of biological specimens. Ensure patients and visitors follow current infection control guidelines. Maintains patient and staff safety through the use of patient safety tools (TeamSTEPPS, Just Culture, etc). Regular attendance at the assigned work location is required. Performs all other duties as assigned