Job Summary:
Reports to the team leader. Chief objective of this position is that the employee must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skill in the area of Respiratory Care with the emphasis in critical care.

Education:
Required: Associate of Science in Respiratory Care, or graduate of an NBRC and AMA approved Respiratory Program meeting requirement for eligibility of the NBRC Exam.
Preferred: Bachelor degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field.

Experience:
Required: One (1) year of clinical experience as a respiratory therapist. Clinical training from an accredited Respiratory Care program is acceptable.
Preferred: Two-Three (2-3) years of critical care experience as a registered therapist.

Position Requirement(s): License/Certification/Registration
Required:
(RRT) Registered Respiratory Therapist by the National Board of Respiratory Care. State approved license to practice respiratory care in the state of Tennessee, ABG endorsed. Current AHA BLS completed prior to going to the unit/ department and maintained going forward

Preferred: Current ACLS/PALS/NRP certification

Department Position Summary:
Must have an understanding of the principles and practices of respiratory therapy. Computer, time management, analytical and communication skills are a must. Proficient with all equipment utilized in the respiratory care department. Critical Care and general floor care assessment and functional skills are a must.

Must be advanced in critical care and general floor care for the patient population served: school/age to older adults. Therapists will be a part of the CQI team, in data collection for improvements. Must be capable of making recommendations for the most effective utilization of technology available. Correct and adjust respiratory care and equipment in a timely manner, when needed. Assume preceptor responsibilities for new employees and those peers in advance training as directed within the area of specialty. Due to this facilities role as a teaching hospital, therapists must also be willing to provide assistance with the clinical training of students from Respiratory Programs that we support. Assist with clinical based research projects that are related to defining appropriateness and efficiency of respiratory care delivered. Airway management and CPR are required. Organizational and communicational skills are a must in patient care areas.