Respiratory Therapist I

Minimum Education
Graduate of an accredited program for respiratory care
Associate's Degree or Bachelor's Degree (Preferred)

Required Skills/Knowledge
Demonstration of proficient skills for ventilator management required.
Clinical evaluation skills required.
Strong communication skills required.
Ability to handle stressful situation, and good time management skills required.
Active member of the AARC, and AARC state affiliation preferred.
Participation in activities which further professional growth for self and the department is preferred.

Required Licenses and Certifications
Must meet DC licensure requirements. (Required)
Certified Respiratory Therapist (C.R.T.) by the NBRC. (Required)
BLS certification. (Required)
NRP/ACLS/NPS certification. (Preferred)
PALS certification 30 Days (Required)

Job Functions
Essential job duties:

• Operate various types of mechanical ventilators, airway management (suctioning and tracheostomy trach care and change) and administering medical gas therapy as needed.

• Administers respiratory therapy inhaled medications, bronchopulmonary hygiene/drainage; assisting with breathing exercises; monitoring physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, adverse reactions and capillary/arterial blood gases.

• Evaluates the effects to respiratory therapy treatments by observing, noting, and evaluating patient's progress; recommending adjustments and modifications.

• Educate patients and their families about their conditions and teach appropriate disease management techniques, such as breathing exercises and the use of medications and respiratory equipment

• Transports mechanically ventilated patients internally within the organization and externally outside the organization.

• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending continuing education workshops;

• Documents patient care services received in Cerner the Electronic Medical Record.

• Inspect, clean, test and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently.

Other job duties:

• May perform other duties in addition to those outlined in this job description.