Respiratory Therapist

GENERAL SUMMARY Provide cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders, and department policies and procedures. FUNCTIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Respiratory Therapy Maintains knowledge of various methods of oxygen delivery, including knowledge of the necessary equipment. Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose or each, and possible side effects associated with each. Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery. Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning. Assesses patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation, and makes appropriate nurse or 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. Follows department equipment sterilization procedures. Documents all pertinent data on the patient medical record following completion of any service. Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks and their proper usage. Performs EKGs, types report interpretations, sends the reports to appropriate physician and files reports in department, according to department procedures. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, from neonate to geriatric. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, from neonate to geriatric. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently. Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning, including patients family as appropriate. Assesses patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassesses for response to treatment. Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors. POSITION REQUIREMENTS Knowledge / Skills / Abilities 3 year minimum experience in respiratory care services. Experience Education Graduate of an approved School of Respiratory Therapy. Current NH State Respiratory Therapist Licensure or Certification Current ACLS certification. GENERAL SUMMARY Provide cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders, and department policies and procedures. FUNCTIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Respiratory Therapy Maintains knowledge of various methods of oxygen delivery, including knowledge of the necessary equipment. Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose or each, and possible side effects associated with each. Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery. Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning. Assesses patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation, and makes appropriate nurse or 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. Follows department 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, types report interpretations, sends the reports to appropriate physician and files reports in department, according to department procedures. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, from neonate to geriatric. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, from neonate to geriatric. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently. Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning, including patients' family as appropriate. Assesses patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassesses for response to treatment. Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors. POSITION REQUIREMENTS Knowledge / Skills / Abilities 3 year minimum experience in respiratory care services. Experience Education Graduate of an approved School of Respiratory Therapy. Current NH State Respiratory Therapist Licensure or Certification Current ACLS certification.