Job Summary:

Under the supervision of Oxygen Services Coordinator and Department Manager, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for coordinating clinical management and educational activities of patients that are utilizing respiratory equipment in accordance with specific physician's orders, departmental policies and procedures.

FLSA:

NON-EXEMPT

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert to and assess possible side effects to oxygen delivery.

Education on all respiratory related items for all patients. Monitor patient, family, and care givers for appropriate usage of respiratory equipment prescribed by the physician.

Download and communicate with physicians the results of nocturnal pulse oximetries.

Assess respiratory patients when clinically needed at the request of the physician. Act as liaison between the physician and Benefis Spectrum Medical.

Participates in the development of infection control and corporate safety policies and 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.

Download and communicate with physicians the reports from apnea monitors and CPAP/BIPAP equipment.

Ensure physician orders are current and the patients are following the orders appropriately.

Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.

Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.

Maintains thorough knowledge of hazards of oxygen therapy.

Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients' needs are met and that department policy is followed.

Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.

Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department manager.

Demonstrates the ability to deal with pressure to meet deadlines, to be accurate, and to handle constantly changing situations.

Demonstrates the ability to deal with a variety of people, deal with stressful situations, and handle conflict.

Professional Requirements:

Adheres to dress code.

Completes annual educational requirements.

Maintains regulatory requirements.

Wears identification while on duty.

Maintains confidentiality at all times.

Attends department staff meetings as required within the department.

Reports to work on time and as scheduled; completes work in designated time.

Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.

Actively participates in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities.

Coordinates efforts in meeting regulatory compliance, federal, state and local regulations and standards

Communicates and complies with the Benefis Health System Mission, Vision and Values as well as the focus statement of the department.

Complies with Benefis Health System Organization Policies and Procedures.

Complies with Health and Safety Standards and Guidelines.

Education/Experience Requirements:

Current State Respiratory Therapist Licensure.

Graduate of an AMA-approved School of Respiratory Therapy.

Must possess a current Montana drivers license.