GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Supervisor of the Respiratory Therapy Department, the Certified Respiratory Therapist is responsible for all therapeutic and diagnostic respiratory care as well as, non-invasive ventilation, oxygen administration, to include set up and administration, tracheostomy care, tracheostomy tube changes, disposable circuit change, assessment and reassessments.

The Certified Respiratory Therapist must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served by his/her department – young adult through geriatric. The Certified Respiratory Therapist must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span; possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status; interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to their age-specific needs; and to provide the care needed as described in Respiratory Therapy Department's policies and procedures.

Type of supervision exercised: None. Jobs reporting to this position: None.

EDUCATION:

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Must be a graduate of an AMA approved school for Certified Respiratory Therapists.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

No previous work experience required.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Possession a valid PA Drivers License preferred.

Current PA State Certified Respiratory Therapist License issued by the PA State Professional and Occupational Affairs Office required.

Must be cleared by PA State Police criminal history check.

Proficiency in all aspects of mucous clearance devices/techniques to include vest therapy, percussion, and positioning to insure maximal drainage of all lung segments preferred.

Proficiency in the operation of cylinder medical gas, regulators, flowmeters, humidifiers, nebulizers, all modes of oxygen administering devices (masks, cannulas, hi-flow), intermittent positive pressure breathing machines, In-Exsufflator therapy, intrapulmonary percussive ventilation, noninvasive ventilator, incentive spirometers, all types of manual resuscitators, oxygen analyzer, arterial blood gas sampling kits, pulmonary functioning devices to include bedside spirometry and tracheostomy care preferred. Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills required for effective communication with staff, management, and patients preferred. Good computer skills and basic arithmetic skills preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Light work: duties require exerting up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally (approx 10-33% of shift), and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently (approx 33-66% of the time), and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move, lift, carry, push, and pull objects.

Position involves bending, reaching, and stooping (occasionally in strained position) throughout shift.

Ability to transport self throughout facility is required.

ACCIDENT OR HEALTH HAZARDS:

Occasional exposure to blood and body substances.

Exposure to needle sticks possible.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Must travel as required.

Works in a well-lit office and patient care areas.