Sr Respiratory Therapist, RRT - UPMC Harrisburg

Purpose of the Sr. Respiratory Therapist, RRT:
Under the general direction of a physician and by prescription, provides respiratory therapy services and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system. Demonstrates an advanced level of knowledge in respiratory care as defined by the business unit. Performs all duties of a Respiratory Therapist, RRT. Defined responsibilities are performed in all patient populations and in all patient service areas.

Responsibilities:
 

• Demonstrates advanced level of knowledge in high risk modalities specific to the business entity. Effectively administers all therapies such as Nitric Oxide (NO) administration and Tracheal Gas Insufflation (TGI). Performs advanced functions in non-traditional settings: OR, ED, Cath Lab, Lung Center, Recovery areas, Transport, etc. Performs bronchoscopy, Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) lab troubleshooting, completes pulmonary function tests, breath alcohol testing, EEG, EKG, Stress Testing, and 24-hour halter monitoring hook-up and scanning as needed.
• Monitors patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes. Performs bronchopulmonary drainage and assists patient in performing breathing exercises. Performs pulmonary function tests to be used by physician in diagnosis of case. Consults with physician in the event of adverse reactions. Maintains patient's chart that contains pertinent identification and therapy information. Orders repairs when needed Demonstrates respiratory care procedures to trainees and other health care personnel. Supervises students during training. Assists to transport mechanically ventilated patients. Responds to all code situations.
• Evaluates the appropriateness of medical orders. Interprets clinical data to optimize patient clinical objectives.
• Performs the duties of a Respiratory Therapist, RRT: Reads prescription, measures arterial blood gases, and reviews patient information to assess patient condition and determine requirements for treatment, such as type and duration of therapy, and medication dosages. Determines most suitable method of administering inhalants, precautions to be observed, and modifications which may be needed that will be compatible with physician's orders. Evaluates the appropriateness of medical orders. Interprets clinical data to optimize patient clinical objectives. Sets up and operates devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators. Operates equipment to ensure specified parameters of treatment, such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature, and to administer medicinal gases and aerosol drugs to patients. Observes equipment function and adjusts equipment to obtain optimum results to therapy. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment functions safely and efficiently.
• Functions as a Lead Respiratory Therapist (i.e., Charge Duty) as needed in the absence of the Supervisor or Manager based on department need. Functions as a senior level resource to other staff to facilitate problem solving, provide training, and demonstrate techniques.