Respiratory Care Practitioner

Overview

Administers respiratory therapy care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system. Performs tests of cardiovascular and pulmonary system to aid physician in diagnosis and treatment of the heart and lung disorders.

Responsibilities

Responsible for the safe and effective administration of medically prescribed medications, knowing their indications and contraindications.

Knows and follows the indications and contraindications, the policy and procedures in administering therapeutic modalities to include: IPPB, IS, HHN.

Sets up and monitors oxygen administration.

Sets up oxygen cylinders and assures proper usage and safety measures are in place.

Performs bedside PFT tests. May be requested to perform test in PFT lab following adequate training and/or orientation.

Performs arterial punctures using radial, brachial, and femoral sites independently.

Be a member of the "code team" responding to arrest situations. As part of the team may be expected to perform CPR (compression). Must be certified in CPR procedures annually.

Performs all aspects of artificial airway care. Able to perform deep tracheal and nasotracheal suctioning on patients.

Daily/weekly preventative maintenance and calibration, quality assurance of ABG analyzers.

Setting up and maintenance of high flow O2 therapy.

Familiar with oxygen delivery systems (i.e., nasal, venuturi mask).

Familiar with measuring devices to include, but not limited to, pulse oximeter, Wright respirometer, oxygen blenders.

Responsible for the set‑up, safety check, monitoring, and troubleshooting of mechanical ventilators.

Familiar with CPAP set‑up and administration of CPAP.

Maintains accurate and legible records, documenting clinical notes in patient medical record.

Participation in reporting patient progress, and prioritizing patient condition to the next shift.

Proper documentation in department records. Participates in staff meetings, attends lectures, trainings, in-services and seminars.

Attends all required safety training programs and can describe his/her responsibilities related to general safety, department/service safety, and specific job‑related hazards.

Follows the hospital exposure control plans/blood borne and airborne pathogens.

Demonstrates respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors, and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible, and courteous environment.

Promotes effective working relations and works effectively as part of a department/unit team inter and intra departmentally to facilitate the department's/unit's ability to meet its goals and objectives.

Qualifications

Graduate of an AMA approved school of Respiratory Therapy

A.S. degree in Respiratory Therapy.

Minimum two years experience as a Respiratory Care Practitioner in acute care setting, preferred.

Current RCP license from State of California Respiratory Care Board

BLS

ACLS, PALS and NRP Certifications

RRT license preferred