Respiratory Therapist- Pulmonary Function Lab

To be part of our organization, every employee should understand and share in the YNHHS Vision, support our Mission, and live our Values. These values - integrity, patient-centered, respect, accountability, and compassion - must guide what we do, as individuals and professionals, every day.

The Pulmonary Function Technologist is a health care professional who is a graduate of a Program in Respiratory Care approved by the committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) and is licensed by the State of Connecticut as a Respiratory Care Practitioner. The PFT I performs a variety of diagnostic tests and clinical activities in the assessment, treatment and education of the patient with respiratory problems. The PFT I actively supports and serves as a resource to other members of the patient care team. The PFT I supports departmental and interdepartmental quality efforts.

EEO/AA/Disability/Veteran

• 1. Clinical Application of Pulmonary Function Testing: Functions efficiently, resourcefully and skillfully in providing age specific pulmonary function diagnostics tests.
• 1.1 Performs various pulmonary function tests to aide in the management and diagnosis of patients. Makes recommendations to physicians based on analysis of results.
• 2. When assignment dictates, Assesses patient's pulmonary status employing basic skills, which include reviewing the medical chart, patient interview, physical examination, and interpretation of blood gases. Demonstrates proficiency and consistency with all assessment skills, including interpretation of x-ray and blood gases, RAW, CL graphic displays, etc. Demonstrates knowledge and interpretation of diagnostic procedures such as PPD, overnight oximetry, peak flow, arterial puncture, sputum induction. (Only applicable to those who work in inpatient respiratory care.)
• 2.1 Demonstrates knowledge and application of basic respiratory care procedures to all age-specific groups by recognizing inappropriate therapy, recommending initiation, adjustment, and discontinuation of these modalities in all clinical settings when appropriate.
• 3. Calibrates and Maintains equipment used for diagnostic testing.
• 3.1 Calibrates and maintains equipment, performing daily calibration and routine maintenance according to procedure. Applies and troubleshoots equipment appropriately, demonstrating knowledge of its operation and removes from service when necessary.
• 4. Documentation and Written Communication: Contributes to effective communication within the department through documentation of services provided, changes in patients clinical status and therapeutic objectives.
• 4.1 Identifies patients using hospital approved identifiers.
• 5. Self-Development, Professionalism and Leadership: Assumes responsibility for maintaining clinical competency through continuing education, professional growth and development.
• 5.1 Assumes responsibility for professional self-development. Maintains membership in AARC and NBRC, or demonstrates other active participation in profession.

EDUCATION

Graduation from an accredited program of Respiratory Care, current active license by the State of Connecticut as a Respiratory Care Practitioner, NBRC Registration: Registered Respiratory Therapist Required, Certified and/or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist preferred.

EXPERIENCE

Minimum of two years experience as a Respiratory Therapist; experience in Pulmonary Function, preferred.

LICENSURE

Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner

SPECIAL SKILLS

Competent in the basic operation and application of pulmonary function and basic respiratory care equipment. Excellent oral and written communication, ability to communicate with patients, families, physicians, and other team members. Excellent organizational and mathematical skills. Ability to work under stressful conditions. Excellent interpersonal skills. Computer literacy.

PHYSICAL DEMAND

Must be able to lift 40 pounds.