Respiratory Therapist

JOB SUMMARYnResponsible for supporting and managing patients requiring respiratory therapy. Responsibilities include: assessing, planning, evaluating, educating, and delivering quality respiratory therapy in a safe and cost-effective manner.nJOB DUTIESn1. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIESnn Manages patients on life support equipment. Initiates, modifies, and adjusts mechanical respirators to meet patient needs.nAbility to function in at least one specialty area: Pulmonary Function, Rehab, Discharge Planning, Clinical Instructor, Industrial Screening, Supervision, and/or Bronchoscopy Assist. Is flexible to work extra hours during peak periods and staff shortages.nMaintains knowledge of trends and developments in the field.nCompletes one special project annually.nAttends and participates in unit meetings.nFunctions as a member of the Medical Emergency Alert, Rapid Response Teams, Stroke Alerts, Red C-Sections, and Trauma Alerts.nPerforms collection and analysis of arterial blood gas collections.nMaintains and troubleshoots all clinical equipment. Performs routine instrument checks, quality controls, and other preventative maintenance procedures as required.nThoroughly and appropriately documents patient therapy, testing, and charges in the EMR.nParticipates on hospital committees as assigned.nMaintains cleanliness of the department and organizes and stocks supplies as needed.nStrictly adheres to infection control policies.nParticipates in at least one Quality Management project per year.nMaintains patient assessment skills.nActively participates in patient care decisions with the physician.nActs as a resource for physician and nursing staff.nAble to work extra during staff shortages or until workload is complete. May include working shifts other than currently scheduled.nDemonstrates abili ty to perform functions accurately and efficiently with computer software application appropriate to the position.nOther duties as assigned.nnJOB REQUIREMENTSn1. KNOWLEDGE AND TRAININGnnRequires knowledge of common safety hazards and precautions to establish a safe working environment.nGraduate of an AMA-approved program for Respiratory Therapists. Certified by the National Board of Respiratory Care as a Respiratory Therapist (CRT credentials).nRRT credentials obtained within 12 months of hire.nLicensed by the State of Wisconsin to practice Respiratory Therapy.nCompletion of a minimum of 14 continuing education credits annually.nAbility to interpret test results and make appropriate therapy recommendations.nMust be able to establish priorities and respond in emergency situations.nGood listening and communication skills.nEmployee possesses the training, knowledge, and skills necessary to perform one or more of the following activities (evaluation, treatment, and/or patient care) for patients in one or more of the following age groups: neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, and geriatric.nValid driver\'s license required.nCPR certification.nNRP Certified, New hires must obtain NRP certification within 1 year (12 months) of hire date.nn2. AUTHORITY AND ACCOUNTABILITYnnPersonal protective equipment is required, such as, gowns, gloves, eye protection and mask.nMust adhere to established hospital and Pulmonary Care department policies, rules, and regulations.nMaturity and ethics consistent with the practice of respiratoryntherapy.n Maintains ethical conduct and confidentiality regarding personalnand medical information on patients.nReporting Relationship: Director of Pulmonary Care Services, Lab Supervisor, Lead Therapist. Patient care - Medical Director of Pulmonary Care.nn3. PHYSICAL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTSnnSuccessful completion of pre-placement physical exam.nAbility to lift and carry items weighing from 20-50 poundsnAbility to push and pull items weighing from 20-50 pounds.n- Ability to grip and handle items.n- Involves fine finger movements, manual and finger dexterity, and eye/hand coordination.nAbility to reach above and below shoulder height. Involves extended periods of standing and walking.nAbility to bend and stoop.nAbility to read, write, and communicate effectively.nAbility to interact positively with the public.nRequires the ability to see and hear at a level sufficient to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.nInvolves working in a congested environment.nInvolves working with hazardous materials.nAbility to work alone and independently in a group setting.nAbility to handle pressures in meeting deadlines.n Ability to operate equipment and machinery.nInvolves frequent contact with blood and other bodily fluids. nInvolves working with sharp objects.nnBEHAVIOR AND ATTITUDEnThe mission of Beloit Health System requires the employee to perform in a manner that ensures delivery of the highest quality of medical services at an economic value and at the highest level of patient satisfaction. Respect and consideration given to the dignity of each patient, visitor, and fellow employee is a requisite of successful job performance.nThe above statements are intended to describe the essential functions and related requirements of persons assigned to this job. They are intended as an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.