Respiratory Therapist (PRN or casual status)

Lexington Regional Health Center; Lexington (NE); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare provider is seeking a Respiratory Therapist to assess and administer respiratory services to patients of all ages. The role requires delivering therapies, performing diagnostic testing, and educating patients on respiratory conditions. Candidates must hold a current state licensure and possess strong analytical and communication skills. This position involves both documentation and direct patient care.

Qualifications

• Current licensure as a Registered or Certified Respiratory Therapist from Nebraska.
• Current Basic Life Support certification via American Heart Association.
• Successful completion of training on standard precautions.

Responsibilities

• Administers and assesses respiratory services and therapies.
• Documents every procedure and assessment accurately.
• Educates patients and families regarding lung diseases.

Skills

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Advanced communication skills

Education

Associate's degree in a Respiratory Care program

Job description

Lexington Regional Health Center

Title: Respiratory Therapist

Supervisor: Director of Respiratory Services

Department: Respiratory Therapy

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Principle duties and responsibilities

1. Assesses and administers respiratory services while utilizing appropriate therapies to treat patients with deficiencies of the cardiopulmonary system, by prescription or approved protocol under the supervision of the patient’s Medical Provider and Director of Respiratory Services.
2. Administers respiratory therapies such as nebulizer treatments, oxygen therapy, inhaled medications, bronchial hygiene therapy, lung volume expansion therapy, etc. Reacts to patient’s status changes and emergency situations appropriately and efficiently.
3. Performs diagnostic testing to patients with cardio-pulmonary abnormalities such as EKG’s, PFT’s, Cardiac Stress Testing, ABG’s, obtaining sputum cultures, Pulmonary Rehab, etc.
4. Provides education to patients and families regarding lung diseases, including COPD, asthma, and smoking cessation.
5. Performs thorough patient assessments, including listening to lung sounds, counting respirations, and assessing work of breathing.
6. Documents every procedure and assessment accurately and thoroughly.
7. Works with all age groups, from infants and pediatrics to adults.
8. Troubleshoots and adjusts BIPAP/CPAP machines, oxygen equipment, ventilators, etc.
9. Participates in patient care activities that involve blood exposure and risk to bloodborne pathogens, such as handling blood-contaminated specimens.
10. Ensures safe bagging and disposal of biohazardous waste.
11. Maintains the environment to meet governing body standards.
12. Properly collects, stores, and labels biological specimens.
13. Ensures patients and visitors follow current infection control guidelines.
14. Maintains patient and staff safety using safety tools like TeamSTEPPS and Just Culture.
15. Regular attendance at the assigned work location is required.
16. Performs all other duties as assigned.

Minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Knowledge of respiratory care therapies, procedures, equipment operation, and basic computer skills, typically acquired through an Associate's degree in a Respiratory Care program from an accredited school.
• Current licensure as a Registered or Certified Respiratory Therapist from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.
• Current Basic Life Support certification via American Heart Association.
• Attention to detail, up to 75% of work time, when assessing patients and documenting procedures.
• Analytical skills for troubleshooting equipment and evaluating patient status.
• Advanced communication skills for patient and family education, and professional correspondence.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Ability to complete reports and correspondence professionally.
• Ability to respond promptly to inquiries and complaints from patients, employees, and regulatory agencies.
• Successful completion of training on standard precautions and transmission protocols.

Working conditions

• Spends 2-4 hours daily on documentation and desk work; the rest on patient care activities, approximately 8-10 hours.
• Patient transferring, up to 35 pounds, 5% of work time.
• Transporting equipment, up to 20 pounds, for 15% of work time, over distances up to 300 feet.
• Using percussion tools weighing 2-3 pounds for patient percussion, up to 40 minutes depending on diagnosis.
• Reaching and handling supplies from various heights daily.
• Transporting oxygen and compressed air tanks, weighing 10-15 pounds, for about 10% of work time.
• Performing CPR during emergencies, which may require different body positions.
• Exposure to infections, hazardous gases, and body fluids, up to 60% of the time.
• Use of safety precautions like gloves and glasses to minimize injury risk.

Management Responsibilities

None

Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this role. They are not exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.