Respiratory Therapist Night Shift

Overview

The Respiratory Therapist Night Shift plays a vital role in providing exceptional patient care within healthcare settings. This position involves assessing, treating, and managing patients with respiratory conditions, particularly during nighttime hours. In an environment that often presents challenges and requires immediate responsiveness, the Respiratory Therapist will work closely with medical staff, including physicians and nurses, to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. The nighttime shift is essential as it encompasses a range of situations, from emergency response to routine therapy, thereby ensuring that all patients receive appropriate respiratory care around the clock. In addition to technical expertise, this role demands the ability to effectively communicate with patients and their families, maintaining a compassionate approach that promotes the well-being and comfort of each individual. Being alert and adaptable during the night shift is critical to addressing the needs of patients and collaborating with the healthcare team during these hours. This position significantly impacts the recovery process of patients with respiratory issues, making it a highly valued role within the healthcare system.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients’ respiratory function and medical history.
• Administer respiratory therapy treatments and procedures.
• Monitor and document patient progress and response to therapy.
• Operate and maintain respiratory equipment.
• Collaborate with physicians to develop and implement treatment plans.
• Educate patients and families regarding respiratory health and treatments.
• Conduct pulmonary function tests.
• Perform arterial blood gas analysis and interpret the results.
• Respond to emergencies with appropriate protocols and interventions.
• Assist in the management of ventilator settings for patients.
• Participate in patient rounds with the healthcare team.
• Maintain compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Document all procedures and patient care accurately in the medical records.
• Provide support and training to junior staff or students.
• Stay updated on the latest respiratory therapy techniques and technologies.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Active Respiratory Therapist license in the state of practice.
• An associate’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Certification as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a hospital or clinical setting.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification is an advantage.
• Knowledge of respiratory equipment and medications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy equipment as necessary.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality patient care.
• Flexible availability to work night shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Background in patient education and advocacy.
• Proficient in using medical and therapeutic language.
  
  

MUST HAVES

• Graduate of an NBRC approved respiratory therapy program.
• Respiratory Care Professional (RCP) must be licensed by the Ohio Respiratory Care Board.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) must be obtained prior to first shift worked.
  
  

Skills: interpersonal communication,critical thinking,communication skills,knowledge of respiratory equipment,data management,analytical skills,patient care,respiratory therapy,emergency response,clinical assessment,education and training,time management,electronic health record (ehr) systems,patient education and advocacy,team collaboration