Respiratory Therapist

Job Details

Job Location:

CADIZ, KY 42211

Position Type:
Full Time

Job Shift: Days

Under the supervision of the Cardiopulmonary Services Medical Director and Department Director, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for providing Cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with specific physician orders, department policies and procedures. The Respiratory Therapist administers respiratory care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system, performs diagnostic tests of the cardiovascular and pulmonary system to aid physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of heart and lung disorders.

• 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, and nebulized medications. Understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment.
• 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 electronic health record, departmental forms, flow charts, Logbooks and their proper usage.
• Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department director.
• Performs ABGs, PFTs, Holters & EKGs, sends reports to physicians who request them, and files reports in EMR, according to department procedures.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in technique and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• 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 patient’s needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.
• Ability to assess patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.
• Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.
• Participates in performance improvement activities and CQI teams when discussion pertains to department concerns, workflow and mission.

Regulatory Requirements

• Current State and National Respiratory Therapist Licensure.
• Graduate of an American Medical Association approved School of Respiratory Therapy or Grandfathered with current State Licensure.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or must be obtained within thirty (30) days of hire
• Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire
• Current Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire