Respiratory Therapist - Cardiopulmonary Services - Full Time - Shift

Kern Medical•Bakersfield, CA

About The Position

Kern Medical is hiring a full-time Respiratory Therapist in Cardiopulmonary Services. This position is part of a flexible classification series comprising RT I (entry level), RT II (journey level), RT III (advanced journey level), and RT IV (highest level). Depending on classification, work is performed under direct supervision, under supervision, or with a minimum of supervision. Higher-level classifications involve more complex treatment techniques, increased consultation with physicians, training responsibilities, and—in RT III—demonstrated competency in complex continuous mechanical ventilation, cardiopulmonary, and electrocardiography procedures. Assignments may be off-site where consistent with the classification. The Respiratory Therapist administers respiratory and pulmonary treatments, supports patients requiring mechanical ventilation or artificial airways, performs diagnostic procedures, responds to hospital emergencies, and documents care and treatment. The role may involve patients from newborns through geriatric patients, depending on area of practice or department assignment. Additional compensation may include shift differentials, incentives, and bonuses. The listed estimated hourly pay is $29.4142 to $54.9400, including a 6% premium; the position may also be eligible for participation and employer contributions to the Kern County Employees’ Retirement Plan.

Requirements

Comply with the Respiratory Care Practice Act through either a valid current Respiratory Care Practitioner license or notice that an application is on file with the Respiratory Care Examining Committee; applicants using the application pathway must pass the Respiratory Care Practitioner examination during probation or face termination.
For RT I, if not holding an American Heart Association Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) card at hire, complete the appropriate training and qualify for RQI Provider certification within 60 days of employment; maintain RQI Provider certification and competency as a condition of employment.
For RT II, RT III, and RT IV, if not holding an American Heart Association Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) card at hire, complete the appropriate training and qualify for RQI Provider certification within 60 days of employment; maintain RQI Provider certification and competency as a condition of employment.
RT II: Be eligible for registration with the National Board for Respiratory Care as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), or be certified by the Board as a Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician (CRTT).
RT II: Possess a valid current California Respiratory Care Practitioner license.
RT III: Be eligible for National Board for Respiratory Care registration as an RRT, or be certified by the Board as a CRTT.
RT III: Possess a valid current California Respiratory Care Practitioner license and have one year of experience as a Respiratory Therapist with primary responsibility for ventilator management of critical care patients.
RT IV: Be registered with the National Board for Respiratory Care as an RRT.
RT IV: Possess a valid current California Respiratory Care Practitioner license issued by the State of California.
Depending on assignment, possess and maintain specific certificates of competency as a condition of employment.
Possess a Class C California driver’s license when required by assignment to off-site locations.
Knowledge of therapy machines, including pressure and volume ventilators; oxygen therapy; gases and gas laws; safe respiratory practices; equipment, procedures, and techniques; pulmonary function testing and gas analysis; anatomy and physiology; nursing arts; and clinical considerations.
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions; organize and prioritize basic tasks; communicate effectively and work well with others; and maintain confidentiality of information.
If driving a personal vehicle is required, possess a current valid California driver’s license and comply with the specified vehicle-use and driving policy.
If driving a Kern Medical-owned, leased, or rented vehicle is required, possess a current valid California driver’s license, sign authorization for release of driver record information, and comply with the specified vehicle-use and driving policy.
Remain at work, or report as soon as practicable, following a significant emergency or disaster as a designated Disaster Service Worker.

Responsibilities

Administer IPPB therapy.
Perform humidity and aerosol therapy.
Administer medical gas and pulmonary drainage procedures.
Perform cardiorespiratory resuscitation.
Administer aerosolized drugs.
Provide continuous mechanical ventilation and maintain artificial airways.
Perform bedside lung function studies.
Perform incentive spirometry.
Clean and prepare equipment.
Implement infection control and demonstrate knowledge of aseptic techniques.
Respond to emergency calls throughout the hospital.
Document care provided, maintain treatment records, and generate documents for charges or record keeping.
Depending on the area of practice or department assignment, demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in caring for newborn, infant, toddler, child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.
Perform other related duties as required.
At higher classification levels, consult with physicians, train others, and use more complex treatment techniques as described for the applicable level.

Benefits

New hire premium of 6% of base pay, matched up to 6% if contributed to the Deferred Compensation Plan.
P.M. shift differential of 10% of base pay for shifts listed as 7:00 PM–7:30 AM.
Holidays.
Paid time off.
Retirement benefits, including possible participation and employer contributions to the Kern County Employees’ Retirement Plan.
Medical insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Life insurance.
Additional compensation may be available through differentials, incentives, and bonuses.