Job Description

The Respiratory Therapist is a professional care giver under the direction of the Systems Director Respiratory Services or designee, who utilizes physician’s orders and standards, plans, provides and directs care and teaching of patients and families. Must be able to perform functions required of the Respiratory Care Provider including: medication administration, documentation, education of disease process, collaboration with other healthcare providers, maintain infection control and safety standards, technical skills within the scope of practice, and critical thinking. The Respiratory Therapist will participate in direct patient care. Responsible for leadership of self and others and functions as the Charge Therapist when designated. Adheres to the Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care Scope of Practice. Exhibits the F.I.R.S.T. values (Friendliness, Innovation, Respect, Service, and Trust).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Makes decisions and takes actions that are consistent with the standards of respiratory therapy practice, established policies, procedures, and licensing laws.
2. Maintains annual competencies and has the ability to function independently in all areas of Respiratory Care.
3. Makes appropriate decisions in prioritizing patient care needs and provides quality and safe patient care.
4. Works with the health team to establish priorities and manage care to achieve desired outcomes.
5. Promotes and represents respiratory as a profession.
6. Uses therapeutic communication effectively with clients, families and health team members.
7. Exhibits the F.I.R.S.T. values (Friendliness, Innovation, Respect, Services, and Trust).
8. Identifies, reports and intervenes on the behalf of clients and families in the protection of their rights.
9. Uses appropriate processes to support client wishes regarding care decisions.
10. Identifies health risks and implements risk reduction strategies for self and others.
11. Supports and serves as a mentor/resource to team members.
12. Participates in continuous quality improvement activities.
13. Supports evidenced based practice through participation in the development of programs/protocols and education/self growth.
14. Demonstrates a commitment to professional accountability and growth to maintain and expand knowledge and skills
15. Contributes to the achievement of the mission and philosophy of the Organization.
16. Contributes to the effective operations of the Organization by demonstrating dependability in job performance.
17. Demonstrates a commitment to incorporating the core concepts of patient family centered care into practice (dignity, respect, information sharing, and participation).
18. Demonstrates a commitment to the development and implementation of shared governance across the Organization.
19. Performs other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS, HAZARDS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:

Works in a well lighted, ventilated and air conditioned area. Must be attentive to details. Stress from deadlines and strict regulations. Schedule may consist of weekends, holidays and shift work. Schedule may be adjusted to cover departmental needs to provide patient care. Often exposed to unpleasant odors, sights and sounds. Long periods in a stationary position and moving around the unit are required. Risks exposure to disease, infection and physical strain and assault. Risks exposure to blood, body fluids, tissue, radiation and antineoplastic agents. Must be able to move or position 50 lbs. independently.

CONTACTS WITH OTHERS:

Interaction with nurses, physicians, visitors, patients, Associates, other healthcare providers, community resource personnel, administrative staff, and Organizational support services.

EQUIPMENT USED/SPECIAL SKILLS REQUIRED:

1. HHN, MDI, CPT, & IPPB

2. Medication Administration

3. Oxygen Therapy

4. Croup Tent/Oxyhood

5. Adult Ventilator

6. Infant Ventilator

7. CPAP/BIPAP

8. ABG's/ISTAT

Qualifications

One (1) year experience in Respiratory Care preferred.

Location

Ephraim McDowell Health, Inc

Education Required

Attended and Graduated from an approved Associate Degree Program in Respiratory Care or an approved Certification Program in Respiratory Care and successful completion of the NBRC Certification Exam.

Certification Required

A current Respiratory Care Practitioner’s License issued by the Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care and current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS). Certification in Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP/NALS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred within one year of employment.

Other Shift

Varied days and nights

Compensation:

$28.96-$39.83 per hour based on years of experience. 12.5% night shift diff. 5% weekend shift diff.