Respiratory Therapist - Per Diem

Stamford Health has an opening for a Per Diem Respiratory Therapist. The Respiratory Therapist provides under medical direction, the assessment, treatment, management, diagnostic evaluation, and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardio-pulmonary system. The CRT performs these functions primarily in critical care areas in addition to other wards. The therapist assumes primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities. Initiates and conducts therapeutic procedures, maintain patient records, and selects, assembles, checks, and operates equipment. The CRT will be delegated occasional charge responsibilities.

• The CRT will evaluate patients receiving Respiratory Therapy daily to determine effectiveness and appropriateness and verifies patients are receiving prescribed therapy. The CRT can make appropriate clinical decisions based on physical assessment and chart review.
• The therapist will demonstrate thorough knowledge of all the department policies and procedures to assure the competent administration of all therapeutic and diagnostic modalities of Respiratory Care., This care will include oxygen administration, medication administration, chest physiotherapy, mechanical ventilation, arterial blood gas puncture and analysis. The CRT is responsible for recognizing adverse conditions and takes corrective action when necessary.
• The CRT assumes charge responsibilities in accordance with departmental needs. The therapist recognizes the importance of minimum staffing requirements and makes every attempt to see that they are met. The CRT assigns workload equitably and appropriately prioritizes to ensure the completion of patient care. Coordinates all work assignments to achieve maximum productivity and efficiency during the assigned shift.
• The CRT performs patient education and training to ensure effective self-therapy after discharge and promotes preventive measures.
• The CRT accesses clinical data accurately documents in the patient medical record using the computerized information systems available at the hospital.
• The CRT demonstrates proficiency in the use of all equipment used by the department, including its operation, maintenance, trouble shooting and processing.
• The CRT attends Department meetings and is responsible for knowing the contents discussed at all meetings.
• The CRT works as part of a team of therapists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties. The therapist performs other related duties as assigned or requested to maintain a high level of service.
• The CRT demonstrates professional work behavior according to the American Association of Respiratory Care code of conduct and by following Service Standards and Success factors of Stamford Hospital. The CRT complies with departmental organizational policies and procedures and adheres to external agency requirements.
• The CRT maintains clinical expertise by attending continuing education classes, respiratory seminars, meetings, and self-improvement programs as appropriate and required. The Therapist supplies proof of yearly CEUs to the Respiratory Clinical Leader or Manager.
• Must have graduated from an accredited program in Respiratory Therapy and hold a current Connecticut state license as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
• The therapist must be certified by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
• The CRT must maintain certification in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support according to the American Heart Association.