Respiratory Therapist - Ventilator Services

Lincare•Washington, MO

About The Position

The Respiratory Therapist participates in the day-to-day activities of the Respiratory Care Department, including therapy procedures, in-service education, tracheotomy and ventilator management and weaning, and interdisciplinary care with core and ancillary staff. The role provides respiratory care to the facility’s general population and, when necessary, through home care.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Graduate of an approved AMA School for Respiratory Care.
Current state respiratory therapy license.
NBRC credentialing.
Current BLS certification.
Valid driver's license.
Proof of negative TB testing by skin test or negative chest X-ray.
Complete at least six hours of training annually in infection control and blood-borne pathogens, OSHA, safety issues, HIPAA, new products or services, and other topics necessary for the job.
Complete state-required continuing education credits for respiratory therapy licensure.
Ability to troubleshoot equipment and solve problems.
Ability to make independent clinical decisions.
Strong communication skills for coordinating care.
Sensitivity to the physical and psychosocial needs of fragile patients and families.
Ability to respond to family, staff, and facility needs and function in stressful situations.
Ability to recognize needs and communicate them effectively to the manager.
Ability to follow policies and procedures, build and participate in teams, and learn and apply new techniques.
Ability to cope with the demands of patients and families, maintain patient and employee confidentiality, demonstrate a professional demeanor and appearance, and learn and apply paperwork requirements and procedures.

Nice To Haves

Two years of experience in ventilator management in acute care or home care; preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Perform duties of the respiratory care program as required.
Follow policies and procedures and adhere to the work schedule.
Assist with emergency coverage when needed.
Consult with family members, physicians, and other health care professionals as appropriate.
Participate in in-service education for employees and the community.
Assist with quality assurance and other reports as requested.
Assist with on-call coverage for company needs.
Provide consistent updates to the supervisor about changes and patient status.
Help check equipment for safety and proper care, clean equipment, and maintain the department.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, mandatory staff meetings, and in-services.