Purpose:

To outline the job requirements and expectations of a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Under the supervision of the Cardiopulmonary Services Medical Director and the Department Director of Cardiopulmonary Services, the CRT is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician's orders, department policies and procedures.

Regulatory Requirements:
• Graduate of an American Medical Association approve school of Respiratory Therapy.
• Current credential requirements with National Board of Respiratory Care.
• Current state license from the State of Georgia Composite Medical Board.
• Current Basic Life Support Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.
Basic Skills:
• Ability to read and communicate effectively in English.
• Knowledge of additional languages is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal skills.
• Basic computer knowledge.
Job Requirements:
• Knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert and assesses patient for possible side effects to oxygen delivery.
• Administers respiratory medications, possessing knowledge of the mode of action for each medication and all possible side effects.
• Set up and monitor mechanical ventilation. Possesses knowledge and skill in all associated critical care duties including but not limited to assessment, airway management, and trouble shooting.
• Performs arterial punctures to obtain samples for arterial blood gases (ABG) and understands all possible complications involving arterial puncture. Possesses outstanding interpretation skills of an ABG and is able to give appropriate treatment suggestions to physicians based on the ABG results.
• Cleans, inspects and maintains all respiratory care equipment in accordance to departmental policy to ensure safe and efficient function.
• Efficiently and effectively completes all assigned tasks and documents in the patient's medical record, per hospital policy, at the completion of said tasks.
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, and log books.
• Performs all non-patient related tasks and responsibilities as required by the Director of Cardiopulmonary Services.
• Performs electro-cardiograms (EKG) and submit for interpretation.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities a performed on patients of varying ages including pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric patients.
• Treats patients, family, visitors, and co-workers with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure that the patient needs are met and hospital policy is maintained.
• Assesses patient's tolerance to or the need for respiratory therapy modalities. Effectively communicates these concerns to the physician and/or the patient's nurse.
• Responsible for maintaining all required professional continuing education credits and hospital specific education and training.
• Participates in departmental performance improvement and ongoing quality assurance activities.
• Reports to work on time as scheduled, and complete all assigned tasks within the designated time.
• Understands and complies with the hospital dress code.
• Understands that he/she will be required to be readily available to work during any weather related incidents or other natural disasters and/or any other emergency situations that may arise.
• Is aware of and adheres to all HIPP A privacy rules per hospital policy.
• Reports all non-medical staff issues to administration as necessary.