The Respiratory Therapist is responsible for setting up and operating respiratory care equipment to diagnose and treat respiratory diseases. They perform daily treatments, monitor ventilators, and provide direct patient care to ensure adequate respiratory function.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy and possess a current state license and NBRC credential. Previous clinical experience in respiratory therapy or a similar role and current Basic Life Support certification are required.
SUMMARY: The licensed and credentialed Respiratory Therapist responsible for performing duties and tasks of a respiratory care practitioner. Upon the request of the physician, the Respiratory Therapist sets up and operates various types of respiratory care equipment to be utilized in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disease and/or illness.
RESPONSIBLE TO: This position is responsible to the
Director of
Nursing
Essential
JOB
Functions:
Explains to the resident, purpose and procedure of treatments, tests and equipment
Uses knowledge of growth and development principles to anticipate care needs of resident in the adult and geriatric stages of development
Applies criteria for recognition of abuse and follows policy for making appropriate referral/intervention
Conducts physician prescribed daily use of ventilator machine, various oxygen devices, nebulizer and ultrasonic nebulizer, with respect to the respiratory system of the resident
Performs chest physical therapy treatments involving percussion, postural drainage, and suctioning, in order to mobilize secretions and mucus in the lungs and to clear airway blockage in the respiratory system
Performs set-up, operation and monitoring of ventilator when resident’s respiratory system is incapable of adequate spontaneous ventilation
Ensures the adequate maintenance of ventilation during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation
Performs pulmonary functions studies determining the volume, distribution, and movement of air in the respiratory system
Records on respiratory care records and resident chart, all pertinent information of treatments, and resident response to treatments
Maintains and records daily ventilator monitoring, internal and external battery logs, and ventilator weaning logs
Performs Pulse Oximetry
Sets up oxygen via nasal cannula and simple face mask
Assists resident with uncomplicated transfer in and out of bed
Reports to relief personnel, condition of residents and treatments to be administered/conducted
Processes respiratory therapy equipment – cleaning, sterilizing and packaging as required
Conducts regular rounds – checking residents’ oxygen equipment, replacing humidifiers as necessary, as well as spot-checking other respiratory therapy equipment on a timely basis for his/her patient load
Participates in the Hazardous Materials Program. Hazards include exposure to blood and body fluids, possible communicable diseases, sharp objects and instruments, assorted chemicals and gasses as listed in the Hazardous Materials Program Manual
Performs such other functions as are identified by the
Director of
Nursing and
Clinical
Nurse
Manager
JOB
Functions:
Demonstrate knowledge of, and respect for, the rights, dignity and individuality of each resident in all interactions
Appreciates the importance of maintaining confidentiality of resident and facility information
Demonstrate honesty and integrity at all times in the care and use of resident and facility property
Proficiently provides care in emergency situations and follows established emergency procedures and practices
Maintain knowledge of, and implement resident care activities to promote, maintain, and/or restore health for assigned residents
Assure that the rights of residents are respected and maintained by allowing for privacy and dignity in the provision of care
Demonstrate good oral and written communication skills with residents, families, physicians, additional healthcare providers, and co-workers Timely, accurately, and thoroughly prepare documentation in a manner that conforms to prescribed style and format, and to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business facility
Demonstrates ability to relate approximately and work effectively with others, including evidencing discretion, practice, tact and diplomacy in interaction with employees, peers and administrative personnel
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments without sacrificing the quality of the end product
Possesses good judgment, organization, time management skills, and appropriate follow through skills
Adapts to changing environments
Works well under pressure and in emergency situations
Effectively utilizes organization and problem solving skills under pressure
Visual acuity is required to observe details of instruments required for life-support
Self-initiated, highly motivated, and able to research available resources
Reflects a positive attitude, dependability, loyalty, and be discreet in matters of confidentiality
Maintains a professional appearance as it relates to dress, grooming, etc
Possesses good presentation skills so as to present outcomes/results/recommendations (positive and negative) in a professional, useful and effective manner
Other duties as assigned
QualificationsQUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS: Associates or Bachelor’s Degree is Respiratory Therapy Current, valid Respiratory Therapist licensure to practice in the state, credentialed by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Current Basic Life Support Certification Broad knowledge of respiratory care principles, procedures and practice
Previous clinical experience in the capacity of one of the following: Respiratory Therapy, Cardiology Technician or similar position Previous experience caring for patients with technology dependency (Medic-Cal requirement) Must be able to perform aspects of basic patient care, including but not limited to, 12 lead EKG as per established standards of practice Knowledge of OBRA and Title XXII guidelines for LTC Must be able to work independently at times
