Location: Baystate Medical Center, Springfield

Hours: Per Diem

Summary: 

Under general supervision and according to established policies and procedures, perform a variety of duties involving all aspects of Respiratory Care. In doing so, maintain and monitor a variety of equipment for both infants and adults. Obtain arterial blood gas samples, assists in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, perform EKG tracings, and keep accurate records of all patient therapies. This description cover the essential functions of the position under a limited license. Incumbent is expected to perform other similar and related duties as assigned.

Job Responsiblities: 

1) JOB KNOWLEDGEPerformance reflects knowledge in theory, methods, techniques, skills, and behaviors required to achieve high quality results in a variety of ages in patients. Demonstrate competence in all respiratory care procedures in areas within their realm of responsibility. Possesses a sound background in the use and operation of all respiratory care equipment in their affected area. Maintains a complete knowledge in the principles of anatomy and physiology, gas, laws, and acid base balance, pathology of basic lung disease, and pharmacology. Demonstrates knowledge of daily operation of department including, but not limited to, policies and procedures for R.C. modalities, safety and infection control. Recognizes potentially dangerous situations and takes appropriate action. Consistently strives for a high level of excellence in respiratory care by suggesting most beneficial modality of therapy, while keeping in mind patient comfort, safety and potential improvement on therapy.

2) JOB KNOWLEDGE cont.Demonstrates knowledge of theory, equipment and clinical situations by applying it to new equipment and/or new and unusual situations. Assists other staff in making critical decisions about patient care. Demonstrates skill in priority setting and organization by the ability to assess appropriateness of therapy and takes corrective action. Completes own assignment and assists others whenever possible.

3) UTILIZATION OF RESOURCESThe utilization of appropriate resources for support, insight, assistance and education. Ability to gain positive outcomes from available resources. Demonstrates ability to find new sources for resource.

4) TEACHINGSharing of skills and knowledge with other healthcare professionals freely, and in a teaching effort. Shows a willingness to share knowledge with patient, students,other therapists, nurses, physicians etc.

5) RELIABILITY/ACCOUNTABILITY/ATTITUDE/INITIATIVEThe preparation and ability to meet organizational, personal and professional commitments. Willingness to accept responsibility for decisions made and to be accountable. Identifies own limitations and strengths. Consistently acts as a role model through clinical excellence and patient assessment skills. Behaviors consistent with the philosophy that the patients' welfare is the prime concern all of the time. Responds in a positive manner to changes in the schedule as necessary including; rotating, as well as, working extra shifts. Deals positively in the work areas by exhibiting courtesy, control of emotion. Maintains neat and professional appearance. Conforms to dress code per BHS policy and procedure manuals and understanding of patient, visitors, peers, supervisors and other member of the health care team.

6) ORAL AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONDemonstration of effective listening and verbal abilities. Is timely with communication and directs it to appropriate resource. Interactions which achieve positive outcomes rather than miscommunication and conflict. Researches and updates patient history and communicates an accurate and thorough report to fellow therapists. Does all required documentation it is consistent and up to date. Written communication and documentation reflects clarity, good organization, completeness and an understanding of the desired reaction. Thoroughly completes patient assessment and records all pertinent information. Maintains completion/accuracy of CSI orders before the end of their shift.

7) TIME MANAGEMENTPrioritizes respiratory care procedures in accordance with the departmental priority list and own clinical judgment. Utilizes time to achieve maximum productivity and efficiency during the assigned shift. Recognizes need to notify charge therapist and/or supervisor when it is necessary to pool resources. Responds to all emergency/stat calls in a timely fashion, identifies acuity level and takes appropriate action. During slow periods, utilizes time constructively to attend in-service, do chart research, do job related journal reading or work on a departmental project. Report free time to supervisor and asks what needs to be done and readily volunteers for additional work.

8) PATIENT RELATIONSRespects patients right to privacy, dignity and confidentiality all of the time. When applicable, identifies self to patient and informs patient of procedure to be performed. Reassures patient in an attempt to relieve anxiety and maximize cooperation. Is conscientious of patient safety concerns. Is understanding of patient's feeling, needs and concerns.

9) TEAMWORKAbility to work cooperatively with team of people, whether peers or other members of the health care profession. Demonstrates behavior which supports team cohesiveness. Is supportive of hospital/department policy and procedure. Attends department staff meetings to stay abreast of ongoing issues. Offers information and constructive suggestions.

10) CONTINUING EDUCATIONParticipates and attends in-service education, formal training sessions, external educational opportunities and does outside reading pertaining to the profession of Respiratory Care. Demonstrates a willingness to learn new procedures. Expand knowledge.

11) PERSONAL/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTTakes responsibility for own professional growth and development. Maintains membership in one professional association such as, the AARC. Assumes additional responsibilities leading to the attainment of career goals. Examples may include but are not limited to: case presentations, in-service research projects, charge, equipment, evaluation, policy/procedure revision, etc.

Required Work Experience: 

1) None

Preferred Work Experience: 

1) None Listed

Certificaiton Requirements:

1. BLS - American Heart Association

2. Limited License Respiratory - State of Massachusetts