Respiratory Therapist at St. Josephs Candler – Savannah, Georgia

Position Summary

• Performs various pulmonary and diagnostic procedures, including evaluating preliminary data and recommending or performing testing per department policy. This is done in the setting of the Advanced Thoracic Oncology Center.

Education

• Associates - Required

Experience

• 2-3 Years PFT Administration or Respiratory Care - Required

License & Certification

• Professional RCP License with State of Practice - Required

• Basic Life Support (BLS) – Required

Core Job Functions

• Collect and evaluate relevant clinical history from patients. Measure and record all physical data (height, weight) and pertinent clinical information per established department policy. Provide patient education regarding use of Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs). Administer nebulized medications as prescribed.
• Evaluate preliminary patient data to complete appropriate testing per physician orders. Instruct patients in the proper technique for performing pulmonary function testing to elicit maximum level of cooperation from each patient. Administer appropriate medication for pre- and post-bronchodilator testing. Perform oximetry measurements (resting and with exercise), along with inspiratory and expiratory mouth pressure measurements per departmental testing policies.
• Screen patients for contraindications to testing, including but not limited to use of beta blockers and current pregnancy status. Instruct patients in the proper technique for performing testing. Prepare and administer appropriate medication for each level of the challenge testing process, including postchallenge recovery. Complete Methacholine inventory and order from Pharmacy to ensure continuous supply for the patient load.
• Verify calibration and record values with 100% accuracy for laboratory equipment per established department policy.
• Obtain physician orders and assess appropriate site per established department policy. Perform puncture and obtain blood sample.
• Participate in age-specific competency training within 12-month time period and demonstrate ability to assess and obtain patient needs for the following age groups: Adolescent (13-17 years); Adult (18-64 years); and Geriatric (65+ years). Apply knowledge of growth and development stages in direct patient interactions. Understand range of treatments and services needed based on age group served.