Certified Respiratory Therapist

Description

Under the supervision of the Cardiopulmonary Director, the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders and department policies and procedures. The CRT administers respiratory care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system and performs diagnostic tests of the cardiovascular and pulmonary system to aid physicians and providers in the diagnosis and treatment of heart and lung disorders.

RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS):

• Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery including the necessary equipment. Remains alert to assess possible side effects of oxygen delivery.
• Administers respiratory therapy treatments and nebulized medications. Understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Sets up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment.
• Performs arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis and understands the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure.
• Follows departmental equipment cleaning procedures.
• Documents all pertinent data on the patient medical record(s) following completion of any service.
• Analyzes chest x-rays and sputum specimens.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in technique and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patient’s needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.
• Educates individuals in cardiopulmonary health (e.g., asthma education, smoking cessation, etc.)
• Regular attendance and punctuality for scheduled shifts.
• Appropriately adapts assessment, treatment, and/or care methods to accommodate the physical, cultural, age-specific, and other developmental needs of each person served.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge through continuing education opportunities including internal and external educational offerings. Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency and required CEUs for licensure. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.
• Utilization of assistive devices for lifting is mandatory.
• Must adhere to safety protocols at all times.
• Per DRH policy, all required conditions of employment must be met and maintained including required vaccinations.
• This position requires respirator and fit testing. Required testing will be performed on all team members at risk for exposure to airborne infectious diseases, droplet producing procedures, or any caustic chemicals.
• Implement DRH Standards of Behavior and exhibit behaviors consistent with DRH core values.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Ability to assess patient, patient needs, and their ability to tolerate treatment, and reassessment for response to treatment. Basic computer skills with information technology associated with the position; Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; Ability to remain flexible to quickly adapt to urgent situations. Ability to adapt procedures, processes, tools, equipment, and techniques to accomplish the requirements of the position. Ability to travel to various locations within the DRH system.

Education and/or Experience:  Graduate of an American Medical Association approved school of Respiratory Therapy. Must have successfully passed the Therapist Multiple Choice (TMC) Examination at the CRT level.

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:  Current Oklahoma and national Respiratory Therapist licensure. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; May have up to 30 days to obtain upon hire or transfer. For those positions requiring travel, a current valid driver’s license and automobile liability insurance must be maintained.

Safety-Sensitive Position - This is a Safety-Sensitive Position as defined by Oklahoma law.  As such, please be advised that applicants for this position cannot test positive in pre-employment drug tests (or any drug tests administered after employment begins) for the presence of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive component of cannabis.  This is true even if the applicant is in possession of a valid medical marijuana card that otherwise allows the license-holder to legally use and consume medical marijuana. Team Members in Safety-Sensitive positions are not permitted to test positive for the presence of THC in any pre-employment drug test, or any other drug test administered after employment begins.  This information is provided to applicants as a resource to the application process.  This is not a request for any applicant to disclose personal medical information during the application process. If you have any questions about the information in this disclaimer please direct these questions to a member of Human Resources.

This position requires respirator and fit testing. Required testing will be performed on all team members at risk for exposure to airborne infectious diseases, droplet producing procedures, or any caustic chemicals.

As a condition of employment, vaccinations are required per DRH Policy.  Medical and Religious Exemptions are available upon request.