The Registered Respiratory Therapist will administer respiratory care to neonate, pediatric, adult and geriatric patients with cardiopulmonary system deficiencies and abnormalities and will train and act as a resource for respiratory department.

Minimum Qualifications:

Required

• Montana Licensure (Registered Respiratory Therapist)
• Registered Respiratory Therapist Certification (NBRC)
• American Heart Association BLS
• American Heart Association ACLS required upon 3 months of hire
• American Heart Association PALS required upon 3 months of hire
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) required upon 3 months of hire

Preferred

• Certification in Neonatal-Pediatric Specialist (NBRC-NPS) and/or Adult Critical Care Specialist (NBRC-ACCS)

Essential Job Functions:

In addition to the essential functions of the job listed below, employees must have on-time completion of all required education as assigned per DNV requirements, Bozeman Health policy, and other registry requirements.

• Maintains knowledge of the various methods of oxygen delivery, including the necessary equipment. Remains alert, assesses possible side effects to oxygen delivery.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the differences in technique and treatment modalities as performed on patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of oxygen concentrations and medication doses as they relate to patients of varying ages, including pediatric, adolescent and geriatric patients.
• Administers respiratory therapy treatments, and nebulized medications. Understands the purpose of each and the possible side effects associated with each.
• Sets-up and monitors mechanical ventilators and the associated critical care duties required for such treatment.
• Performs arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis, and understands the possible complications and contraindications associated with the procedure.
• Follows departmental equipment sterilization procedures.
• Documents all pertinent data on the patient’s medical record following completion of any service.
• Maintains a thorough knowledge of electronic health record, departmental forms, flow charts, logbooks and their proper usage.
• Formulates a teaching plan based on identified learning needs of a patient and evaluates effectiveness of learning. Patient’s family is included in teaching as appropriate.
• Treats patients and their families with respect and dignity. Coordinates and directs patient care to ensure patient’s needs are met and that hospital policy is followed.
• Ability to assess patient, his/her need, and ability to tolerate treatment and reassessment for response to treatment.
• Works with other departments and disciplines to coordinate patient care.
• Manages and operates equipment safely and correctly. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure that it is functioning safely and efficiently.
• Participates in performance improvement activities and CQI teams when discussion pertains to department concerns, workflow and mission.
• Attends education in-service programs to maintain professional competency. Obtains appropriate hospital-specific education and training.
• Independently pursues professional development opportunities through professional organizations and other continuing education opportunities.
• Attends department meetings and utilizes communication tools such as hospital email to stay informed of department and hospital issues and updates.
• Performs all additional duties as assigned by the department manager.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills.
• Advanced math skills; ability to collect, analyze, interpret and/or present complex data.
• Detail oriented, organizational skills and the ability to prioritize.
• Ability to work in a busy and stressful environment.
• Ability to work varied shifts.
• Exercises tact, discretion, sensitivity and maintains confidentiality.
• Computer applications, MS Office, EMR, internet applications and standard office equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting, Pushing, and Pulling: Support 50 pounds of weight (patient, assist with bedside needs, etc.) Lift 50 pounds (pick up a child, transfer a patient, etc.) Carry equipment/supplies. Use upper body strength (CPR, physically restrain patient, etc.)
• Extended Hours: The role may involve working for extended periods, requiring sitting, walking, or standing for eight or more hours daily.
• Flexible Schedule: The position may necessitate working beyond a standard 40-hour workweek, including weekends and after-hours shifts.
• On-Call Availability: On-call work may be required to respond to organizational and patient needs promptly.
• Effective Communication: Proficient in effective communication, both in person and through various technologies.
• Handling Challenging Situations: The role may involve dealing with upset individuals, requiring the ability to de-escalate situations and work effectively with frustrated patients or families.
• Repetitive Tasks: Ability to perform repetitive tasks as needed to fulfill job responsibilities.           

Exposures

Tasks Include Potential Exposure: Job tasks may involve exposure to:

• Bloodborne pathogens, such as blood, bodily fluids, or tissues.
• Radiation in settings where medical imaging procedures are performed
• Various chemicals and medications used in healthcare settings. Job tasks may involve handling cleaning products, disinfectants, and other substances.
• Infectious diseases due to contact with patients in areas that may have contagious illnesses
• Emotionally challenging situations, such as dealing with distressed patients or difficult family interactions.