Respiratory Therapist

Position Summary The Respiratory Therapist provides all aspects of respiratory therapy to both in-patients and outpatients. They will collaborate with patients, family/significant others, peers, physicians and other members of the healthcare team. The Respiratory Therapist assesses patient's respiratory needs, plans care, implements and evaluates respiratory therapy in accordance with hospital philosophy, policies/procedures and standards. Essential Functions and Responsibilities Includes the Following: Understands and adheres to the WPH Performance Standards, Policies and Behaviors Initiation and monitoring of mechanical ventilation; invasive and non-invasive. Conducts various types of breathing therapy and patient assessment. Performs postural drainage, percussion and bronchial hygiene techniques. Performs bedside pulmonary function. Carries out blood gas puncture and analysis, blood gas analyzer operator maintenance and quality control. Responds to cardiac arrest and Rapid Response situations. Performs CPR. After demonstrating competency will be certified in emergency endotracheal intubation of adult patients. Performs all other related duties as assigned Education & Experience Requirements Must be a graduate of an approved program of Respiratory Therapy. Must hold a current and valid New York State Respiratory Therapy license. Credentialed as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) Must hold a current BLS/CPR certification. NRP and ACLS are strongly recommended Core Competencies Should possess effective communication and decision making skills. Should be organized and able to prioritize tasks. Must be detail oriented, show good judgment and have the ability to work independently. Physical/Mental Demands/Requirements & Work Environment Must have the ability to transport and lift heavy medical gas cylinders. May be exposed to chemicals necessary to perform required tasks. Any hazardous chemicals the employee may be exposed to are listed in the hospital's SDS (Safety Data Sheet) data base and may be accessed through the hospital's Intranet site (Employee Tools/SDS Access). A copy of the SDS data base can also be found at the hospital switchboard, saved on a disc.

Created: 2024-11-12