Respiratory Therapist Neonatal NN

ABOUT NCH

NCH is an independent, locally governed non-profit delivering premier comprehensive care. Our healthcare system is comprised of two hospitals, an alliance of 700+ physicians, and medical facilities in dozens of locations throughout Southwest Florida that offer nationally recognized, quality health care.

NCH is transforming into an Advanced Community Healthcare System(TM) and we’re proud to: Provide higher acuity care and Centers of Excellence; Offer Graduate Medical Education and fellowships; Have endowed chairs; Conduct research and participate in national clinical trials; and partner with other health market leaders, like Hospital for Special Surgery, Encompass, and ProScan.

Join our mission to help everyone live a longer, happier, healthier life. We are committed to care and believe there's always more at NCH - for you and every person we serve together. Visit nchjobs.org to learn more.

JOB SUMMARY

The Respiratory Therapist Neonatal will utilize and be competent in all of the clinical skills performed by a Respiratory Therapist II to include geriatric, adult, pediatric and newborn patient care. The Respiratory Therapist Neonatal will have the additional training and competency necessary to work under minimal supervision in a level II neonatal nursery unit. The Respiratory Therapist Neonatal will maintain competency and/or certification to perform all patient care activities according to NICU and Respiratory Care policy and procedure. Airway management & intubation of the newborn as well as ventilator management are considered core competencies, which are established during the orientation process and annually thereafter. The Respiratory Therapist Neonatal will also assist in the training of new NICU therapists. The Respiratory Therapist Neonatal will provide assistance to the NICU nursing staff as necessary and assume charge duties as assigned by the Respiratory Care Director. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Other duties may be assigned.

· Certification in neonatal intubation and neonatal airway management, which includes visualization of the vocal cords, suctioning of meconium and oxygenation of the newborn. To be performed independently with minimal supervision. Either the Neonatology Physician or a respiratory therapist currently certified in neonatal intubation will grant certification.

· Performs accurate and appropriate respiratory care assessment of the newborn.

· Draws arterial blood gases according to policy from UAC lines, arterial lines, arterial sticks, and capillary heel sticks. Analysis of the ABG’s and morning lab draws on the blood gas systems according to nursery and departmental standards.

· Follows all hospital guidelines in adhering to the operating room procedures and Attire.

· Competent with all respiratory therapy equipment to include Drager ventilator, servo ventilator, oscillator ventilator, bubble cpap. Tpiece Resuscitator, heated high flow cannulas, heated oxygen hoods, nasal cannulas, nebulizers, blenders, o2 analyzers, ambu bag, transporter, and warmer tables.

· Cleans and properly reassembles all intubation boxes/bags and documents each shift that they are properly stocked.

· Competent in the proper cleaning and reassembles the infant transporter, isolates, and warmer tables.

· Cleans and properly reassembles all respiratory therapy equipment and performs device checks on ventilators.

· Attends all high-risk deliveries defined by 35 weeks or less, and other deliveries at the request of the Neonatologist or NICU Delivery Team.

· Assists the RN with assigning Apgar scores following birth, coordinates transfer of newborn from the delivery area to the NICU or well-baby nursery.

· Proficiency and understanding of Surfactant Administration including dosing and troubleshooting.

· Attends / completes annual clinical competency program.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

· Graduate of an accredited program for Respiratory Care. Associate’s Degree Required

· Must have successfully completed NBRC examination for Registered Respiratory Therapist or Certified Respiratory Therapist (Registry Preferred)

· Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

· Florida licensure is required.

· NRP Required prior to completion of preceptorship

· Advanced Life Support (ALS) certification & Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association is highly recommended.

· Minimum of 6 month of Respiratory and Critical Care experience including ventilator management. Previous experience in a level II nursery or greater is preferred

· Intermediate computer knowledge: Uses Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Windows.