Respiratory Therapist, Lincoln

Major Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates knowledge in various modes and methods of oxygen delivery and the equipment needed for each and can conduct prescribed therapeutic procedures to achieve adequate oxygenation. 
• Administers therapeutic procedures, understanding the purpose and benefits, and possible effects associated with each. Performs diagnostic procedures as outlined in policy. 
• Initiates, monitors and maintains mechanical ventilators and non-invasive ventilators and is aware of the critical care duties and effects of such therapy. 
• Independently evaluates current therapies using appropriate judgment and protocols, making proper recommendations concerning plans of care and patient education needs. 
• Documents therapy and results as required by hospital, department and regulatory agencies. Communicates information to appropriate members of the healthcare team. 
• Initiates, conducts and modifies respiratory care techniques in an emergency setting. Performs and evaluates blood sampling analysis with a thorough understanding of the values, and the importance and treatment of abnormal results. 
• Works independently in all patient care areas and assists co-workers with patient care whenever possible. Is proficient in the electronic medical records and its interface with the Respiratory Care Department. 
• Follows departmental safety guidelines. Completes all regulatory requirements. Completes annual proficiency evaluation of respiratory care equipment and procedures. 

Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

• Credentialed as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is required. Currently licensed as a Respiratory Care Practitioner/Licensed Respiratory Therapist in the State in which they work. Basic Life Support for healthcare providers thru the American Heart Association required. Advanced certification per facility/department. 

Education Required:

• Graduate of an approved school of Respiratory Therapy required. Associate’s degree in respiratory therapy required (or equivalent experience may be considered). BA/BS or higher preferred. 

Experience Required:

• For Free-Standing Emergency Department: 2 years critical care experience required or a bachelor’s or higher in Respiratory Therapy with 1-year critical care experience. For all other areas, new graduates with RRT credentials or experienced Respiratory Therapists with RRT credentials are eligible for this job code. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Excellent organization, prioritization, and time management skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate and establish working relationships. 
• Effective problem solving, decision making, and delegation skills. 
• Demonstrates knowledge of the principles of growth and development and demonstrates the skills and competency appropriate to the ages, culture, developmental stages, and special needs of the patient population served. 
• Protected Health Information: 
• Will limit access to protected health information (PHI) to the information reasonably necessary to do the job. 
• Will share information only on a need-to-know basis for work purposes. 
• Access to verbal, written, and electronic PHI for this job has been determined based on job level and job responsibility within the organization. Computerized access to PHI for this job has been determined as described above and is controlled via user ID and password. 

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Requires repetitive physical activity. Able to walk and stand to perform duties. Ability to lift 20-50 pounds. Ability to move patients of all age groups. Adequate hearing and eyesight are necessary. Exposure to a working environment that may include odors, low lighting, and crowded working conditions. 

Preferred Job Requirements:

Education Required:

• BSRT preferred 

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.