Respiratory Therapist; PRN

Respiratory Therapist (PRN)

Cleveland Area Healthcare System

To evaluate, treat and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. Practicing under the direction of the Director of Respiratory Therapy. Will assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care treatments and diagnostic procedures.

• Adhere to all organization policies, including job description, certification/licensure requirements, mission statement, HIPAA, confidentiality standards, and patient’s rights.
• Actively engage with the organization’s communications and directives.
• Be capable of setting up and operating various types of equipment to diagnose and treat respiratory disease.
• Obtain, analyze, and advise on arterial blood gas results.
• Perform and or assist with intubation, ventilator management, BIPAP/non‑invasive ventilation set‑up and management, administration of nebulizer treatments and medications associated with treatments, MDI therapy, chest physiotherapy, PEP therapy, flutter valve therapy, and various modes of oxygen therapy.
• Meet patient goals and needs and provide quality care by conducting pulmonary function tests; assessing and interpreting evaluations and test results; determining respiratory therapy treatment plans in consultation with physicians, healthcare team, and physician orders.
• Help patients accomplish treatment plans and support life by administering inhalants, operating mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, and aerosol generators.
• Administer respiratory therapy treatments by performing bronchopulmonary drainage; assisting with breathing exercises; monitoring physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes; directing treatments given by nursing staff.
• Evaluate the effects of the respiratory therapy treatment plan by observing, noting, and evaluating the patient’s progress, recommending adjustments and modifications.
• Recommend COPD or Asthma education when determined; perform education on inpatient, SWB, and outpatient.
• Contribute to discharge planning by consulting with physicians, nurses, social workers, and other health care workers; participate in patient care conferences.
• Assure continuation of therapeutic plan following discharge by instructing patients, families, and caregivers in home exercise programs; recommending and or providing assistive equipment; recommending outpatient or home health follow‑up programs.
• Document patient care services by charting patient and department records.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Protect patients and employees by adhering to infection‑control policies and protocols.
• Ensure equipment operation by meeting preventive maintenance requirements; following the manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Must be able to function independently and proficient in all areas.
• The RT will respond to all code emergencies throughout the hospital and outpatient setting.
• Provide education to patients and families on the use of respiratory equipment.
• Act as a resource for nurses, physicians, and other hospital staff.
• Take an active part in attending departmental in‑service/education programs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Computer and Printer
• Copy Machine
• Fax Machine
• Telephone
• Mechanical Ventilators
• Non‑invasive ventilators
• Lifesaving equipment – Glidescope, Lucas, and Manual intubation equipment
• Therapeutic gas administration apparatus
• Aerosol Generators
• Chest physiotherapy equipment

Education:

Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Care program, RRT and/or CRT preferred. Those who have been grandfathered in the state licensure will be evaluated case‑by‑case.

Licensure:
Active License in good standing in the State of Oklahoma. Current certifications: BLS, ACLS and PALS required or ability to obtain.