"Alerted.org

Make a difference where your skills matter most. UPMC Northwest is seeking a Casual Respiratory Therapist to support respiratory care, EKG, PFT, and EEG services across our rural hospital. Deliver evidence-based therapy and life-support interventions using the latest modalities while caring for patients of all ages.

Responsibilities:

+ Clinical Care

+ Review prescriptions, arterial blood gases, and patient information to assess condition and determine appropriate therapy type, duration, and medication dosages.

+ Determine the most effective method for administering inhalants, including necessary precautions and modifications aligned with physician orders.

+ Monitor patient responses to therapy-vital signs, ABGs, and lab values-and adjust treatment as needed.

+ Perform bronchopulmonary drainage and assist patients with breathing exercises.

+ Conduct pulmonary function tests to support physician diagnosis.

+ Consult with physicians regarding adverse reactions or changes in patient status.

+ Assist with transporting mechanically ventilated patients and respond to all code situations.

+ Technical & Equipment Management

+ Set up and operate respiratory care equipment, including mechanical ventilators, gas administration systems, environmental control devices, and aerosol generators.

+ Ensure treatment parameters-such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature-are accurately maintained.

+ Administer medicinal gases and aerosol medications while monitoring and adjusting equipment for optimal therapeutic effect.

+ Inspect, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation; initiate repair requests as needed.

+ Documentation & Communication

+ Maintain accurate and thorough patient charts documenting all relevant identification and therapy information.

+ Education & Training

+ Demonstrate respiratory care procedures to trainees and healthcare personnel.

+ Supervise students during clinical training.

+ Graduate of a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Care program required.

+ Students with a temporary respiratory license may begin employment with Human Resources approval and submission of official transcripts.

+ Respiratory Therapists earning their CRT credential from the NBRC after July 1, 2002 must maintain certification per NBRC requirements.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances

+ BLS or CPR certification (AHA-standard, including didactic and skills demonstration) required within 30 days of hire.

+ CRTT (Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician)

+ Osteopathic Respiratory Care _or_ Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license, as applicable.

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran