Respiratory Therapist, Registered - North Arkansas Regional Medical Center

Overview

Administers oxygen and other non-anesthetic gases to patients by various methods, including intermittent positive pressure; administers aerosol medications; may conduct pulmonary function tests, may do arterial punctures and conduct blood gas determinations

Instructs patients and others in proper use of equipment and may teach maintenance

Keeps records of treatments and patient charges

Responsibilities

• Perform and properly document all types of Cardiopulmonary care modalities and services per physician’s orders, such as oxygen therapy, aerosolized medication, IPPB, IPV, meter dose inhalers, chest physical therapy, incentive spirometry, deep breathing, and coughing techniques, tracheotomy care and suctioning. 
• Initiate and monitor mechanical ventilators and CPAP/BIPAP therapy.
• Perform diagnostic testing:  ABG’s, ECG’s PFT’s, RSV’s and peak flows.
• Apply and remove Holter monitors.
• Clean and assemble respiratory equipment.
• Provide patient and care giver education.
• Function as shift supervisor and make assignments when assigned this duty.
• Be available for call and overtime as assigned to maintain adequate staffing levels for safe patient care.
• Use Meditech system to order therapy and input charges.
• Use the scanning system and input charges of disposable items.
• Assess patients and recommend appropriate care when ordered.
• Assist with in-service education as assigned.
• Assist with Outpatient procedures, public outreach activities, in-service education and wellness programs when assigned.

Qualifications

Education:

Licensed by the state of Arkansas

Degrees, Licensure and/or Certifications:

Registered by the National Board of Respiratory Therapy

BLS certification

Must have a copy of a diploma or offical transcript of the highest level of education

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Licensure requires completion of at least 12 CEU’s annually in respiratory care.

Must be able to read, write, speak and understand English