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
REGISTRATION: 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.
