RESP THERAPIST- REGISTERED

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Wound Care Manager, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician’s orders, Department policies and procedures.

MISSION STATEMENT:

QUALITY HEALTHCARE: In our continuing effort to enhance the quality of life for the communities we serve, the Hospital Authority of Miller County is committed to the delivery of superior, safe, cost-effective healthcare through the provisions of education prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

• Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment.  Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery.
• Administers respiratory therapy treatments, understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Set-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment, such as airway management and tracheal suctioning.
• Able to assess patient pain interfering with optimal level of function or participation in rehabilitation – makes appropriate physician contact for intervention.
• 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 sterilization procedures.
• Documents all pertinent data on the patient’s medical record following completion of any service.
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of all departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks, and their proper usage.
• Performs all duties as outlined in the “Shift Responsibilities:” section for the shift that the therapist works.
• Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department director.
• Performs EKGs, types report interpretations, sends reports to physicians who requested them and files report in department, according to department procedures.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in techniques and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including neonate, pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Performs all aspects of patient care in an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health errors.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly.  Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.
• Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning, patient’s family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity.  Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patients’ needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.
• Demonstrates ability to assess patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.
• Attends education in-service program to maintain professional competency.  Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.

GUEST RELATIONS STANDARDS:

(All guest relation violations are subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination):

• Always treat others in a friendly, helpful manner.
• Refers co-workers to proper sources w