Respiratory Therapist

Under the supervision of, and in collaboration with a physician, provides evaluation, care, and treatment of patients with actual or anticipated dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system.

• Responsible for patient evaluation through observation and monitoring of physical signs and symptoms, general behavior, and physical response to respiratory care procedures to ensure proper patient treatment. Communicates patients results to physicians and Health Care Team (HCT).

• Transcribes and implements written or verbal orders pertaining to pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Administers prescribed medications for inhalation.

• Performs respiratory related tests and therapy treatments i.e., bronchial provocation challenge tests, pulmonary function tests and oxygen therapy according to procedures and prescribed therapies. Appropriately operates medical equipment for each test or procedure.

• Responsible for the accurate documentation of medical record procedures and interventions performed, patients responses to procedures and interventions and medications administered.

• Prepares charts and test results for physician review and reports patients responses to treatment to the physician.

• Communicates treatment plan to patients, responds to patients questions and periodically follows up with patients to monitor ongoing therapy.

• Practices and adheres to safety precautions by maintaining equipment in good working order and following infection control policies and procedures.

• Performs other related duties as directed.

• Minimum one (1) year of respiratory therapy experience is required.

• Per the National Agreement, current KP Coalition employees have this experience requirement waived.

• Minimum two (2) year degree from an accredited school of respiratory therapy required.

• This job requires credentials from multiple states. Credentials from the primary work state are required before hire. Additional Credentials from the secondary work state(s) are required post hire.

• Respiratory Therapist Certificate OR Registered Respiratory Therapist Certificate

• Respiratory Care Practitioner License (Maryland) within 6 months of hire

• Respiratory Care Practitioner License (Virginia) within 6 months of hire

• Respiratory Care Practitioner License (District of Columbia) within 6 months of hire

• Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation

• Demonstrates clinical knowledge appropriate to care setting.
• Uses equipment and information systems appropriately.
• In order to work effectively with patients, must have effective interpersonal and communication skills and be able to stand, walk, bend, lift at least 50 pounds, hear, speak, and see.
• Must be able to work in a Labor/Management Partnership environment.

• N/A