JOB SUMMARY:
Under general supervision, administers respiratory care and performs pulmonary diagnostic testing in a full-service public medical research institution.
PRIMARY DUTIES
1. Administers all forms of respiratory care and pulmonary diagnostic
procedures such as mechanical ventilation, chest physio-therapy,
deep tracheal suctioning, incentive spirometry, oxygen therapy,
and aerosolization of medication.
2. Documents all patient care services rendered and outcomes.
3. Sets up, maintains, and records log entries on all types of
oxygen, humidity, and ventilation equipment.
4. Interprets arterial blood gas results, basic x-rays and laboratory
results, and relates them to the clinical setting.
5. Participates in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures
including resuscitation, cardiac massage, and emergency oral
intubation.
6. Accepts and transcribes physician`s verbal orders related to
respiratory care and pulmonary diagnostic procedures.
7. Participates in research studies through data collection and
analysis.
8. Cleans and performs preventive maintenance on respiratory and
cardiopulmonary equipment.
Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: Associate of Arts degree with a major in Respiratory Therapy from an American Medical Association (AMA) approved program in respiratory therapy.
EXPERIENCE: Two years related experience in respiratory care
OTHER: Current registration by The National Board of Respiratory Care, Inc.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
Comprehensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, of respiratory diseases, and of the principles and practices of respiratory therapy. Comprehensive knowledge of applicable medical terminology, biology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Skill in the operation and use of standard respiratory equipment and supplies such as ventilators, pulmonary function testing equipment, nebulizers, aerosol masks, nasal cannulas, mist tents, oxyhoods, and oxygen delivery devices. Skill in performing technical mathematical calculations related to the practice of respiratory therapy. Skill in drawing arterial blood-gas and in evaluating results. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to maintain accurate and complete documentation of testing procedures. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, faculty, students, and staff. Ability to wear and work in personal protective equipment. Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time, to position patients and equipment for treatment administration, and to lift over 50 pounds.
OTHER:
Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college credits being equivalent to one year of experience.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Candidates selected for employment may be subject to medical inquiries and/or medical examination to determine the ability to perform the job. Employees in this job class may be required to work with biohazardous or radio-labeled materials and to successfully complete applicable safety training. Employees in this job class may be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. Overtime, weekend, on-call and shift work may be required in some positions.
