Respiratory Therapist

Summary of Position: The Clinical Specialist works in the homecare setting providing quality patient care. Sets-up equipment and instructs the patient/caregiver on how to administer therapy. Performs clinical assessments per physician orders. The therapist travels by vehicle to the hospital or patients home to deliver, check or pick up equipment.

Education: NBRC credential (CRT or RRT)

Experience: Minimum two (2) years hospital/ critical care experience preferred. One (1) year home healthcare experience preferred.

Skills: Strong clinical assessment skills. Ability to educate on disease process and disease management. Customer Services, Excellent Written and Verbal Communication Skills, Good Interpersonal Skills, Problem Solving Skills, Critical Thinking and Organizational Skills, Attention to detail, Good Judgment

Requirements: NBRC credential (CRTT or RRT), duly licensed or credentialed in their profession by the state, CPR certification must be current and maintained

Physical: Drive vehicle to patients homes, bending, standing, sitting are required. Ability to read, write and communicate with patients and customers. Ability to carry and move equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Administers respiratory therapy care and life support to patients with deficiencies or abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system, under supervision of a physician and by prescription.
2. Assist referring physician and referral source in planning and implementing patient care.
3. Reads prescriptions and reviews patient information to assess patient condition and determine requirements for treatment.
4. Determine precautions to be observed and modifications which may be needed that will be compatible with physician’s orders.
5. Sets up devices and equipment to ensure specified parameters of treatment.
6. Inspects and test respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently prior to set-up and during each follow-up visit.
7. Monitors patient’s physiological response to therapy.
8. Maintenance of accurate and proper records for clinical patient files.
9. Perform and document the initial and all follow-up patient assessment visits as ordered by the physician.
10. Consult with physician in event of adverse reactions.
11. Communicate clinical assessments to the referral source and physician as requested.
12. Observes equipment function and adjust equipment to obtain optimum results to therapy.
13. Orders equipment repairs when needed. Recommends new equipment and modalities.
14. Maintains patient’s home care record that contains pertinent identification and therapy information.
15. Demonstrates respiratory care procedures to trainees and other health care personnel.
16. Schedule/coordinate patient follow-up visits. Responsible for accurate completion of equipment checklists, progress report and update of patient information in files, including discharge information
17. Maintain contact with physicians and other health care professions related to care of patients and community health programs (ex- Better Breathers Club).
18. Complete daily, weekly, and/or monthly activity logs as required by the Branch Manager.
19. Maintain a thorough understanding and compliance with all respiratory care and clinical policies and procedures.
20. Participate in Branch Performance Improvement Program and consult with the Branch Manager to maintain accreditation standards.
21. Ability to comprehend and take respiratory care equipment orders via the telephone or written prescription.
22. Represent the Company at trade shows, professional societies and state and local chapter meetings at the discretion of the Branch Manager.
23. Participate in educational programs in and outside the Branch. Stay current on respiratory care therapies.
24. Actively involved in national, state and local professional organizations.
25. Clinical Specialist for specialized advanced equipment, education and compliance monitoring.
26. Responsible for thorough in-service training of Branch staff, patient, family members and caregivers in the prescribed home care therapies, applicable equipment and emergency procedures.
27. Participate in team sales calls and in service training for referral sources.
28. Maintain a professional appearance and attitude
29. Assist in the tracking and maintaining of branch inventory levels for respiratory and clinical product line and equipment stored in alternate sites.
30. Report all problems to the Branch Manager or Manager of Clinical Services. Suggest alternative equipment that may be needed.
31. Follows Company Policy and Procedures