Technologist-Pulmonary Function

Northeast Georgia Health System•Braselton, GA

About The Position

Pulmonary function technologists perform diagnostic tests on patients with suspected respiratory disorders, working with other medical staff to evaluate patients and identify conditions. The technologist assesses patients and takes appropriate action, caring for patients in child, adolescent, adult, and geriatric age groups. Clinical duties are performed according to population-specific guidelines and National Patient Safety Goals outlined in policy and procedures. The role is responsible for pulmonary function testing, effective communication about patient care and schedules, and communication with physicians regarding patient orders and critical pulmonary function results. The technologist performs a range of diagnostic procedures and treatments, collects and analyzes blood gas samples, manages portable oxygen for patient transport, and calibrates and maintains testing equipment.

Requirements

Licensed to practice as a Respiratory Therapist (Respiratory Care Professional) in the state of Georgia; CRTT or RRT.
Associate degree and graduation from a two-year Respiratory Registry program; alternatively, graduation from a Respiratory program and two years of experience as a Respiratory Therapist in lieu of an associate degree.
At least one year of experience as a respiratory practitioner.
Effective communication skills to promote quality patient care.
Ability to work independently.

Nice To Haves

Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) certification or registry (RPFT).

Responsibilities

Perform pulmonary function diagnostic procedures to determine lung function, including collection and analysis of arterial blood gases.
Perform spirometry, lung volumes, nitrogen washouts, whole-body plethysmography, maximum voluntary ventilations, and carbon monoxide diffusion studies.
Deliver appropriate inhaled medical treatments during inhaled medication studies.
Collect and analyze blood gas samples from radial arteries and/or by single-stick arterial sampling.
Manage portable oxygen for transporting patients who are unable to use vendor oxygen.
Perform ventilation and carbon dioxide response studies, TB/antigen skin tests, and bronchial provocation challenge tests.
Assist with cardiopulmonary exercise stress testing and microhematocrit.
Calibrate and maintain equipment, including running daily controls, calculating and plotting quality control, rotating electrodes, and cleaning and performing maintenance as necessary.
Communicate with staff and supervisors about patient care issues and pulmonary function schedules.
Communicate with physicians about patient orders and critical pulmonary function results.
Perform other duties as assigned by the manager.