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Job Summary:
The Respiratory Therapist (RT) I is an entry-level respiratory care practitioner who learns and incorporates MWHC's mission and standards of behavior. The RT I possesses basic assessment and therapeutic skills and provides care to limited patient populations. The RT I collaborates with a multidisciplinary team—including physicians, registered nurses, and speech, occupational, and physical therapists—to develop and ensure effective patient care plans.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
- Provides competent and compassionate patient- and family-centered care based on respiratory processes and interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Administers and assesses responses to respiratory therapeutic interventions with proficiency and minimal supervision (e.g., aerosol therapy, oxygen therapy, bronchodilator therapy, bronchopulmonary hygiene).
- Evaluates the effects of respiratory therapy treatments by monitoring patient progress, and recommends adjustments as needed.
- Establishes and manages mechanical ventilation.
- Measures ventilator volumes, pressures, and blood gases.
- Develops or refines ventilator care plans and communicates with the care team based on evidence and best practices.
- Communicates pertinent information to and from healthcare team members, adhering to MWHC standards.
- Maintains and ensures proper operation of equipment through setup, cleaning, sterilization, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs.
- Provides education and training to patients and their families.
- Ensures patient and staff safety by following hospital and departmental policies and protocols.
- Maintains professional and technical knowledge through ongoing education, reviewing publications, networking, and participating in professional societies.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner in good standing within the Commonwealth of Virginia.
- Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Care program (preferred), with certification as a CRT or RRT.
- AHA BLS Provider CPR certification required at hire.
- ACLS certification required within 90 days of hire at MWH.
- NRP certification required within 90 days of hire for SH; required for NICU only at MWH within 90 days of hire.
- Membership in the American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC) is preferred.
Addendum for RT Applicants:
- Must meet VA 54.1-2955 requirements and:
- Be a graduate of an accredited respiratory therapy program within the last six months.
- This designation is valid only within six months of graduation or until passing required examinations.
- Work under supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist.
As an EOE/AA employer, MWHC does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.