Respiratory Therapist - Certified 3 (U)

University of Miami•Miami, FL

About The Position

The Respiratory Therapist - Certified 3 works on a team of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to manage patient care using a variety of testing techniques. The role assists doctors with cardiac and pulmonary research and facilitates the diagnosis of respiratory disorders. The therapist conducts cardiopulmonary tests, provides respiratory treatments and patient education, operates and maintains respiratory equipment, monitors patient responses, and maintains patient records. The role also mentors and trains students and respiratory therapy staff. Duties may vary based on departmental needs, and additional duties may be assigned consistent with the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. The position requires at least five years of relevant experience. The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. A sign-on bonus of up to $15,000 is offered.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, or relevant experience, certification, or license.
Minimum five years of relevant experience.
Applicable certification and licensing requirements are specified by the department.
Complete assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
Analyze, organize, and prioritize work under pressure while meeting deadlines.
Handle confidential information with discretion.
Work evenings, nights, and weekends as necessary.
Commitment to the University’s core values.
Ability to work independently and/or collaboratively.

Responsibilities

Conduct electrocardiograms, stress tests, lung capacity tests, and other tests to evaluate cardiopulmonary function.
Perform bronchopulmonary drainage and assist or instruct patients in breathing exercises.
Set up and operate mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators according to treatment parameters.
Read prescriptions, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition.
Determine treatment requirements, including therapy type, method, duration, precautions, medications, and dosages.
Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and ease fears.
Educate patients and families about conditions and disease management, including breathing exercises and the use of medications and respiratory equipment.
Monitor physiological responses to therapy, including vital signs and blood chemistry changes, and consult physicians if adverse reactions occur.
Maintain charts containing patient identification and therapy information.
Inspect, clean, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Mentor, teach, and train students, respiratory therapy technicians, and assistants.
Follow University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguard University assets.