Respiratory Therapist (RT)

Job Title: Respiratory Therapist

Department: Cardiopulmonary

Reports To: Cardiopulmonary Supervisor

SUMMARY:

Therapist should possess a basic knowledge of and be able to perform routine cardiopulmonary treatments and procedures. Ability to demonstrate and perform a variety of respiratory care duties in a safe and effective manner; consistent with policies and procedures. Work in general patient care areas as well as ER and outpatient clinics as directed. Able to evaluate and treat patients of all ages for appropriateness of therapy and their response to therapy.

JOB KNOWLEDGE

Must possess a basic knowledge of Respiratory Care modalities, indications, contraindications, and hazards of all aspects of Respiratory Care. Must demonstrate a good understanding of pulmonary diseases, cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology, and certain diagnostic tests.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Be able to perform / evaluate routine respiratory care in all patient care areas, including aerosolized medication administration, oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy, incentive spirometry, oximetry, and patient monitoring.
• Required to perform diagnostic testing including, EKG’s, Holter monitoring, PFT’s, and stress testing (including nuclear), and on occasion be asked to draw ABG’s. Report to the Physician, Supervisor, and other appropriate caregivers regarding outcomes and side effects of procedures.
• Able to assess clinical cardiopulmonary status of patients using a variety of measuring devices and communicate the results to the physician and other caregivers regarding treatments, management and care.
• Be able to administer CPR and other emergency procedures in all health care settings.
• Maintains a safe and orderly work area and practices and follows appropriate infection control practices.
• Accurately completes the appropriate departmental charting and charging of records; timely &legible.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and report as appropriate re: equipment needs.
• Cleans and sterilizes all respiratory care equipment and assists in restocking equipment and supplies.
• Actively participates in the Quality Assurance program.
• Supports supervisory/ administrative decisions throughout Coffey Health System.
• Maintains a professional demeanor and rapport with patients, visitors and other departments and staff.
• Assist in the orientation and training of new employees and students; in-service other staff as needed.
• Maintains and respects the right to privacy and confidentiality (HIPPA) of all patients.
• Attend in-service training programs.
• Participate in fire, safety and disaster preparedness drills.
• Pursue opportunities of continuing education based on the State of KS; meeting requirements of licensure.
• Clean work area and check and store equipment after treatment
• Perform clerical duties: taking inventory, ordering supplies, answering telephone, taking messages, etc.
• Maintain and promote a positive attitude toward clients and their treatment programs.
• Comply with the personnel policies, department policies and CHS Code of Conduct.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions related to qualifications, physical demands and the work environment.

Education and/or Experience:

Be grandfathered in by the State of Kansas, or graduate from an AMA approved Certification/Registry program or equivalent, or be licensed by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts. (RT or RRT)