Respiratory Therapist

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for providing respiratory care to patients of all ages utilizing accepted procedures and techniques.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs patient assessment and routine respiratory care procedures
• Interprets diagnostic information and clinical laboratory data and administers appropriate and effective therapy as indicated
• Utilizes and applies technical specifications and applications of respiratory therapy equipment and modalities
• Evaluates patient’s oxygenation and ventilatory status through the interpretation of laboratory data and establishes and maintains appropriate ventilatory parameters
• Transports patients safely that require airway management and/or mechanical ventilation
• Communicates regularly with respiratory care practitioners, nurses, physicians and other members of the health care team to foster continuity of care
• Performs charting and documentation that is complete and accurate
• Communicates changes in patient care or status to the appropriate physician and/or nursing staff member
• Changes equipment per department policy
• Performs invasive respiratory therapy procedures
• Maintains current knowledge of respiratory care practice
• Maintains mandatory current life support certifications such as ACLS, NRP, BLS and PALS where applicable
• If working in Emergency Room, may perform the following: vital signs, 12 lead ECG, skin and wound care, assists with orthopedic and suture procedures, peripheral phlebotomy, IV insertion for saline lock, foley insertion and point-of-care testing.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of two (2) years experience as a respiratory therapist is required
• Knowledge and understanding of technical specifications and applications of respiratory equipment and modalities
• Demonstrates ability and willingness to function in multiple clinical areas
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret clinical data for the establishment and implementation of appropriate patient treatment
• Ability to effectively interact with patients and other health care team personnel in a courteous and professional manner
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to speak and write in English is required
• Ability to speak and write in both English and Arabic is preferred

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program, or equivalent, is required
• Current national license is required
• Current BLS certification is required
• Current ACLS or PALS certification is required
• Master’s degree in a relevant clinical field is preferred
• Current CPR is preferred