POSITION SUMMARY:

This position performs respiratory therapy procedures per protocol and those ordered by physicians to improve the cardiopulmonary conditions of patients from newborn to geriatric ages. Respiratory therapists work with patients in the intensive care unit, emergency room, and medical/surgical unit, and may provide respiratory care at secondary care sites with the mission and obligations of Carson Valley Health. This position also performs 12 lead EKGs and outpatient respiratory procedures that include pulmonary function testing and overnight oximetry testing.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Education Required:

• Must be a graduate of an approved school of respiratory care.
• Must have working-level knowledge of the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking English.
• Computer literacy.

Licensure Required:

• State of Nevada Board of Medical Examiners Respiratory Care Practitioner License.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) (NBRC - National Board for Respiratory Care).

Certifications Required:

• AHA approved ACLS, PALS and BLS certification.

Other Work Requirements:

• Must provide on-call availability for a minimum of 7 work shifts every 6 months.

Minimum Work Experience:

• Two years of past work experience as a RRT in an acute care setting.

POSITION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Policy/Procedures

• Demonstrates the ability to evaluate and assess each patient’s pulmonary status by reviewing the medical record for history and physical, consultations, surgery reports, radiology and laboratory values, and any other pertinent documentation. Assesses patient’s condition through interviews and direct observation, including but not limited to vital signs, patient color, skin turgor, chest inspection, auscultation, sputum production, etc. with each patient interaction as indicated, including before and after therapeutic interventions.
• Uses data, facts, literature and consultation with the patient/family to make decisions that optimize patient outcomes.
• Provides physiological and psychological care in accordance with evidence based practice, Carson Valley Medical Center policies, and Nevada Revised Statues.
• Initiates and documents assessment in the patient’s medical record and department records consistent with department policies and practices.
• Remains current on all competencies, certifications, and training.
• Demonstrates the ability to provide a thorough concise report at change of shift or upon transfer of patient to another clinical area. Inclusive of: diagnosis, ventilator parameters, care plan, physician comments, diagnostic and lab reports, treatment schedule and impending activities (CT scan, Surgery, MRI, transport, etc.).
• This position is expected to integrate the respiratory care of the patient with other care providers to achieve desired results. They are responsible for the proper documentation of all patient records and department logs. In addition, they are responsible for keeping abreast of technological advances in applicable areas and are well versed in appropriate clinical applications.
• The Respiratory Therapist is accountable for the assessment, planning, implementation of care, and evaluation of Neonatal, Pediatric, Adult and Geriatric patients and families. They must demonstrate the ability to work with patient’s physical, motor/sensory adaptation, cognitive and psychosocial needs specific to the population being served.
• “Respiratory Care” means the treatment, management, diagnostic testing, control and care of persons with deficiencies and abnormalities with the cardiopulmonary system. The Respiratory Therapist has the authority to perform and evaluate respiratory care, initiate CPR, manage artificial airways, contact physicians, and perform all activities as assigned.
• This position does provide direct patient care.

Code Team, Rapid Response Team, Trauma Team

• As member of the Code Team, Rapid Response team, and Trauma activation the Respiratory Therapist will responds to all overhead and phone pages. The Respiratory Therapist will remain in the room until cleared