Summary: The

Respiratory Therapist, under the direction of management, is responsible for providing clinical direction and in-services regarding patient care and other respiratory related issues to the facility.

Job Functions:

• Provides respiratory related services for established times or services within the Respiratory Care Practitioner scope of services. This may include testing the patient for qualifying clinical needs, gathering information, completing and/or submitting the information to the facility.
• Records all pertinent information on respiratory care records and patient charts. This includes consults, recommendations, and pertinent conversations with physicians, staff, patient, patient family members or other caregivers.
• Assists facility in regulatory issues, ensuring that respiratory equipment and supplies are stored in appropriate storage area, and appropriate signs and documentation are provided within the facility.
• Takes care of routine mail, phone calls and pages, as necessary. Also completes necessary filing and faxing.
• Communicates with facility staff regarding relevant clinical and operational issues regarding the program and patient care issues.
• Assess for patient's respiratory needs. Assess oxygen saturation and use of pulse ox. Be able to assess ventilator patients and work with ventilator.
• Complete treatment and ventilator check in a timely fashion. Notifies supervisor of any facility concerns or needs.
• Completes TARs at the end of each month checking for accurate information.
• The ability to assess for decannulation and weaning.
• May participate in a wide variety of special projects.
• Resolves routine problems and communicates solution to appropriate personnel.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to work independently in a consulting capacity.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team.
• Ability to communicate effectively with residents and their family members, and at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to react decisively and quickly in emergency situations.
• Ability to organize a schedule and work to meet facility needs.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Excellent organizational skills.