Respiratory Therapist

Loretto Hospital•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Under the direction of the Respiratory Supervisor, the respiratory care therapist will provide clinical and technical respiratory support to patients in a quality manner in accordance with hospital policy and department procedure. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.

Requirements

Associates Degree or higher from a respiratory therapy education program, accredited by the Commissions on Accreditation of Respiratory Care.
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) License.
CPR, PALS and ACLS required within 90 days of employment.

Nice To Haves

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) preferred.

Responsibilities

Anticipates the need for and initiates educational activities to enhance professional practice.
Complies with hospital/department uniform and dress code policy.
Contributes to and supports cost containment efforts (and revenue maximization efforts, if appropriate).
Competently performs all therapeutic modalities and exhibits knowledge of route, purpose and action, and adverse reactions of drugs ordered by physicians.
Skillfully utilizes, troubleshoots and maintains all equipment pertinent to the administration of oxygen therapy.
Sets‑up, operates, and maintains all non‑invasive / diagnostic equipment according to physician order and department procedure.
Provides respiratory care support to patients on critical care areas.
Demonstrates knowledge and competence in the procedures necessary to provide this support.
Participate in the maintenance / decontamination of equipment.
Assures adequate levels of medical gasses, disposable supplies and standby equipment.
Maintains department records in a timely and complete fashion.
Provides a thorough shift report regarding the clinical status of information regarding orders, equipment or supplies to assure efficient operation of the next shift.
Maintains a good attendance record, is punctual for shifts and demonstrates flexibility in meeting the staffing needs of the department.
Participates / attends department meetings, in‑service, etc., on a regular basis.
Managers own time in a productive and reliable manner completing work assignments.
Utilizes proper body mechanics in all job functions.
Follows established emergency, infection control and/or universal precautions procedures as required.
Maintains work area and equipment according to standards and policies.
Attends mandatory in‑service related to safety and/or infection control.
Supports and participates in department quality improvement activities.
Provides quality improvements which enhance effectiveness and efficiency of department.
Provides courteous service to internal/external customers in all activities.
Demonstrates the ability to manage patients of all ages with special needs.
Facilitates patient/family participation in self-care based on age and development status.
Demonstrates appropriate psychosocial interventions based on age and developmental status.
Evaluates environmental safety and provides an environment that is safe based on age and developmental status.
Performs other related duties as assigned.