Respiratory Therapist

Rochester Regional Health•Rochester, MN

17d•$37 - $48•Onsite

About The Position

The Respiratory Therapist works in patient care settings to implement and update care plans, conduct cardiopulmonary evaluations, provide respiratory therapy treatments, and educate patients, families, team members, students, and the public. Evaluations include acquiring, analyzing, and interpreting physiological specimen data; performing diagnostic tests; and obtaining histories and physical information related to respiratory care. Therapy includes applying and monitoring medical gases other than anesthetic gases and environmental control systems; providing mechanical ventilator support and artificial airway care; performing bronchopulmonary hygiene and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and using pharmacologic agents related to respiratory care procedures. Education includes providing and documenting instruction for patients and families, precepting team members and students at RRHS affiliates, and providing public education upon request.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Respiratory Care or equivalent certificate.
New York State Respiratory Therapist (RT) license with current registration, including credentials received before September 1993; OR New York State Respiratory Therapy Technician (RTT) license and active NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credentials.
Current ACLS certification required within one year of hire, except respiratory therapists working in non-acute Pulmonary or Long Term Care areas.

Responsibilities

Review and evaluate patient records, including history, physical examination, vital signs, and respiratory care orders.
Review and evaluate pertinent clinical information such as blood gas and laboratory results, hemodynamic monitoring, electrocardiograms, and radiology reports.
Advise providers on appropriate respiratory care procedures and techniques for patient situations.
Select, assemble, and check respiratory care equipment for function, operation, and cleanliness.
Recommend, perform, and document prescribed therapeutic procedures, including medication administration, airway care, bronchial hygiene, oxygen and aerosol therapy, ventilator support, and monitoring and diagnostic procedures.
Monitor and document pertinent clinical parameters and assessments for assigned patients according to departmental policies and procedures.
Modify treatment techniques based on patient response.
Provide and document patient education about therapeutic procedures performed.
Initiate and update respiratory care plans for patients according to department policy and procedure, as applicable.
Collaborate with other members of the health care team to implement plans of care.
Maintain ACLS certification and initiate appropriate emergency resuscitation procedures.
Communicate information about patients’ clinical status to appropriate health care team members according to departmental policies and procedures.
Participate in instructing and orienting Respiratory Care team members, students, and other allied health professionals in respiratory care administration.
Perform other duties as assigned.