Description

Current opening is for per diem shifts.

You will be required to work, if needed, at least four (4) shifts every four (4) week period. This would included at least two (2) weekend shifts or orther critical shifts, as identified by the Department Manager, and at least two (2) of the District's recognized holidays per year.

Job Summary

To execute duties and responsibilities of a Respiratory Care Practitioner in accordance with policies and procedures of the Respiratory Care Department.  Evaluate patients and perform diagnostic tests and therapeutic procedures.  Recommend optimal therapeutic regimens.  Provide appropriate documentation of care according to department guidelines.  Communicate effectively with other health care professionals.

Essential Functions

• Read, evaluate, and take verbal orders from physicians.

• Read and evaluate physicians' notes.

• Assess patients.

• Propose, evaluate, and implement treatment plans ordered by physicians.

• Select appropriate equipment.

• Modify modalities to deal with adverse patient responses.

• Document assessment, treatment, and response according to department protocol.

• Evaluate all therapy performed and recommend appropriate changes and modifications in therapeutic regimens.

• Performs tracheostomy care including replacing and changing tracheostomy tubes.

• Administer aerosolized pulmonary pharmacologic agents and monitor their effect.

• Perform spirometric pulmonary function testing.

• Instruct patients and family in the use of equipment and the nature of cardiopulmonary disease.

• Recognize and deal with pulmonary and cardiovascular emergencies.

• Meet department standards for continuing education.

• Maintain familiarity with current standards of practice in respiratory care.

• Initiate and maintain mechanical ventilation according to department protocol.  Discontinue mechanical ventilation according to department protocol.

• Perform arterial puncture and arterial blood gases analysis according to department policy and as ordered by physicians.

• Perform electrocardiograms and cardiac stress testing as ordered by physicians including starting and discontinuing IV saline locks as ordered by physicians.

• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other acute respiratory care as needed.

• Provide all modes of respiratory care as ordered by physicians

• Maintain patient records and department records of therapy administered.

• Disinfect respiratory care equipment and, within ability, maintain department equipment in good operating condition.

• Know and follow all general and departmental safety, security, and health policies and procedures.  Utilize all safe work practices for department.

• Attend and participate in inservice education classes and on-the-job training programs as directed or required.

• Maintain CONFIDENTIALITY of all pertinent patient care information to assure that patients' rights are protected.  No report or result will be discussed or disseminated to anyone but an authorized person

• Must keep all required licenses and certifications current.

• Complete annual employment health requirements in a timely manner.

• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor or the Administrator.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Awareness of organization and function of the Respiratory Care Department.

• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with personnel, patients, physicians, and the general public in person and over the telephone.

• Awareness of policies, regulations, and procedures of the Respiratory Care Department.

Physical Requirements, Safety, and Environmental Conditions  

• Follows safe work practices, takes an active interest in preventing injury or illness and promoting a safe and healthful environment for self and others, and complies with Hospital and governmental safety regulations.
• Must function independently, have personal integrity, have flexibility and the ability to work effectively with other personnel, clients, and support agencies
• Sits, stands, bends, lifts, walks, and moves intermittently during working hours and ability to lift up to 20 lbs.

Compliance

• Assumes personal responsibility to comply with all Federal, State and local laws governing business conduct, conducts business in an ethical and trustworthy manner, and displays the qualities and characteristics of a professional at all times when dealing with patients, visitors, physicians, volunteers, and fellow employees.
• Exemplifies the Seneca Core Values in all aspects of work responsibilities and demonstrates these values to fellow employees and supervisors.

Quality of Work

• Assumes responsibility for professional customer service when working with the public, physicians, and other departments. 
• Strives for excellence in following policies and procedures.
• Utilizes positive communication skills when interacting with people who work for, are serviced by, or associated with the hospital, to ensure that persons receive the highest degree of attention and courtesy.
• Maintains confidentiality of information received in the department and throughout the hospital by complying with strict confidentiality regulations per HIPAA requirements.
• Promotes professional growth of self and co-workers by participating in on-the-job training, continuing education and assisting with training of new employees.

Why Seneca Healthcare District?

Seneca employees are united in our quest to improve the health and well-being of our patients, and we empower each of our team members to fulfill this mission and reach their full potential regardless of job title or experience level.

To this end, we offer:

• Leading benefits package for full-time and part-time employees, inclusive of health, prescription drug, dental, vision and life insurance coverage.
• Sponsored 403(b) plan, with up to 3% matching contribution, and eligibility to participate in the District-funded pension program following one year of service.
• Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO) and Extended Sick Leave (ESL).
• A "One Team" culture of deep respect and admiration across all teams and functions, regardless of role or background.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Certified as a Respiratory Care Practitioner by the Respiratory Care Examining Committee of the State of California Board of Medical Quality Assurance.

• Graduate of an NBRC approved school of respiratory therapy.

• Minimum three (3) years’ experience in a respiratory care department of an acute care hospital.

Required Licenses and Certifications

• Respiratory Care Practitioner license issued by the Respiratory Care Examining Committee of the State of California Board of Medical Quality Assurance.

• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification.

• Pediatric Advanced Life support (PALS) certification will be acquired before completion of the established probationary period, but no later than six (6) months from hire date.  Continued employment is dependent upon timely completion of this requirement.

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.

Salary : $35 - $46