Respiratory Therapist Per Diem

Primary Responsibilities:

Administers chest physical therapy, therapeutic gases, bland or medication aerosols and humidification using a variety of techniques and equipment; performs other therapeutic maneuvers such as but not limited to tracheobronchial aspiration, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and safe transportation of ventilator dependent patients; augment ventilation by applying all forms of positive or negative pressure mechanical support systems; emergent trach replacement. Performs generalized diagnostic procedures such as pulse oximetry, arterial puncture, bedside pulmonary function tests. Assists medical staff in the interpretation and clinical application of results. Assists pulmonologist with bronchoscopies for mechanically ventilated patients. Monitors the effectiveness of respiratory care modalities as ordered by the physician; evaluates the proper application of the equipment per the patient’s condition and response.

Performs all duties in accordance with department policies and procedures; maintains the ability to perform competently in all clinical areas and with all age groups. (Refer to policies, procedures, clinical practice guideline) Practice ceaseless, job specific, learning and development that reflects modern technology and current standards of practice. (Based on attending formal and informal learning opportunities; reflected in effectiveness and adeptness in applying respiratory care).

Provides patients with considerate and respectful care. Perserves the dignity of the patient. (Refer to op policy # A. 20)

Performs all procedures in strict accordance with approved infection control practices (refer to clinical practice guidelines, policy manual, infection control manual)

Serves as a resource to physicians, nurses, respiratory students and other hospital staff regarding the theory and the physiologic application of respiratory care procedures and equipment. (Measured by frequency of above interactions.

Renews and refreshes knowledge and skills with uncommonly used procedures and equipment, on a continuous basis. (Based on participation in education directed at the more uncommon modalities).

Educate patients and patients and families to cope with respiratory illness’s.

Value inter-department concertedness, collaboration and integrated approaches to problem solving.

Performs required written and verbal communications accurately. (95%). Verifies all ordered respiratory care against the Doctors Order prior to administration (99%). Records all respiratory care procedures performed in the patient’s chart and/or EMAR, and in department logs in an accurate and timely manner (95%). Performs EMAR and scanning procedures properly.

Assume the charge position, as assigned by the Manager, to direct staff to function congruent with the outcome for the Therapist position.

Cleans and processes respiratory equipment as necessary.

Staffs the Pulmonary Function Lab on an as needed basis.

Establishes a work plan to ensure timely completion of assigned duties in accordance with department practices. Prioritizes incoming requests for services properly.

Conserves resources by proper and judicious use.

Coordinate respiratory care activities when assigned to designated charge person role.

Shares on call responsibilities to provide coverage in the unexpected event of a sick call on the noc shift.

Required Qualifications:

Massachusetts license.

1 year related experience.

Verbal and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with members of the allied health disciplines, patients and patient families.

Works accurately under stress.

Patient care environment with significant exposure to airborne pathogens, blood/body fluids.

Stressful environments with the need to trouble shoot, accurately, life support systems; respond to a wide variety of respiratory emergencies; prioritize properly under pressure.

Potential rotation to all 3 shifts.

Walking, standing (80%). Pull patients up in bed several times per day. Perform percussion and vibration several times per day.

All forms of protective equipment required; including, masks with some resistance to air flow.