Respiratory Therapist

Overview Since our doors opened in 1968 CHI Health Plainview has been providing patients of Pierce Antelope and Knox counties in Nebraska with exceptional care and quality outcomes. We are a 15-bed critical access facility with inpatient and outpatient services. Responsibilities Job Summary / Purpose This position contributes to the mission and vision of CHI Health by providing direct respiratory care in all patient care areas including general floors, critical care, and emergency room. Assess need, evaluate effectiveness of therapy and recommends changes in specific modes of therapy to the physician. Essential Key Job Responsibilities Performs basic respiratory care and develops plans for the delivery of Respiratory Therapy as directed by physicians or protocols and implements in a timely manner. Promotes a positive quality work environment in the provision of quality patient care. In accordance with established policies, administers and monitors critical care procedures such as mechanical ventilation, physiological monitoring, and diagnostic procedures. Performs assessment of the patient, determining needs related to therapy modality, frequency, and duration of the treatment regime ordered by the MD based on patient’s age, cognitive and physician abilities, and/or developmental needs. Is responsible for the communication to the physician of pertinent patient evaluation data. Makes recommendations for changes in specific modes of therapy. Authorized to make entries in the medical record, consistent with and limited to the scope of the job duties and any applicable licensure. Observes the response of the patients to therapy, evaluated and records in the patient’s medical record. Immediately reports adverse reactions. Provides instruction to patients, family, staff, and students about theory, therapy, and equipment used in Respiratory Therapy procedures and techniques, and documents such as required. Provides instruction and referral for Home Care patients and their families/care givers using language and materials appropriate for age, cognitive, and physical abilities, and/or developmental needs. Assumes charge person responsibilities in the supervisor’s absence. Assigns work load, based on staff’s level of competency. Participates in quality assurance. Provides educational support for staff and clients. Coordinates continuing education programs for staff. Effectively communicates to supervisor/patients/other staff pertinent patient information. Serves as a resource person for their staff members. Demonstrates competence and provides for the cleaning, sterilization, assembly and maintenance of equipment and stocking of supplies in the department and the floors, as necessary and appropriate. Provides a complete hand-off report to on-coming personnel and takes a complete report from off-going personnel. Communicates a professional attitude with patient’s visitors and other hospital personnel while assuring confidentiality of patient and other hospital information. Must have the ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a diverse and multicultural environment. Performs other duties as may be assigned by management. May performs other advanced diagnostic procedures for which they have had appropriate training. This may include: Advanced Bronchoscopy procedures, Neurodiagnostic Procedures including EEG and Evoked Potentials, Advanced Pulmonary Diagnostics including calorimetry and Methacholine Challenge. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Required Education and Experience Graduate of an AMA approved program of Respiratory Therapy. Required Licensure and Certifications Licensed in the State of Nebraska and/or Iowa with a Respiratory Care Practitioner license. Certified (CRT by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)) and obtained Registry (RRT by the NBRC) within 1 year of hire date or current Registry (RRT) by National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC). BLS or BLS instructor certification is required upon hire. Acceptable credentialing bodies and certifications include the following: American Heart Association: Basic Life Support for Health care Providers. ACLS or ACLS instructor certification is required within 3 months of hire date. Acceptable credentialing bodies and certifications include the following: American Heart Association: Advanced Cardiac Life Support. PALS (Pediatric Cardiac Life Support) or PALS instructor certification required within 6 months. Acceptable credentialing bodies and certifications include the following: American Heart Association-Pediatric Advanced Life Support. NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program) completed within 9 months of hire. Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Training Must possess strong knowledge and skill in Respiratory Therapy procedures and diagnostic testing; strong knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, guidelines, and professional standards; good communication skills; must demonstrate personal traits of a high-level commitment, motivation and energy, team orientation, professionalism, trust, personal honesty and integrity, and place a high value on treating others with dignity and respect. Pay Range $22.89 - $34.11/hour We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.