Respiratory Care Practitioner at Childrens Hospital of The King's Daughters – Norfolk, Virginia

The Respiratory Care Practitioner provides a variety of specialized and routine clinical therapies to the neonatal and pediatric population. Provides clinical treatment utilizing state of the art equipment and a multidisciplinary process in critical care, inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings. Respiratory Care Practitioners work to enhance a multidisciplinary approach through communication with the care team, patients and family members, and colleagues.

Assesses patient condition based on medical history, observation, examination, physician’s diagnosis, laboratory findings, the results of specific test or respiratory function, and other appropriate diagnostic procedures.

Develops or modifies the respiratory care plan and makes specific recommendations to physicians regarding indicated therapy.

Administers appropriate diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate therapeutic responses including: blood gas sampling and interpretation, oxygen saturation, end-tidal carbon dioxide measurement, pulmonary mechanics, inhaled medications and may assist with endotracheal intubation and bronchoscopy.

Responds to respiratory and other defined emergencies such as transfer of neonatal high risk patients, cardiopulmonary arrest, and trauma activations.

Maintains artificial airways and provides mechanical ventilation, in addition provides transport of those patients with an artificial airway or mechanical ventilation to locations in order to facilitate tests and procedures.

Initiates patient and caregiver teaching as appropriate.

Completes necessary documentation of all pertinent observations related to patient care treatments, response to therapy, and all recommendations for modification in the treatment plan.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Current registration as a Registered Respiratory Therapist from the National Board of Respiratory Care.

American Heart Association (AHA) certification such as Basic Life Support (BLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) designation is required and/or must be obtained.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) certification such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) designation is required and/or must be obtained.

CPR Training required and/or must be obtained within 45 days of hire.

Associates degree in Respiratory Care is required.

Bachelor’s degree is preferred.

Must have interpersonal skills to communicate detailed clinical observations and evaluations with other members of the healthcare team.

Analytical skills necessary to assess patient/family needs, prioritize care based on assessments and develop solutions to problems concerning patient’s mental or physical well-being.

Expected to work in a patient care environment with minimal exposure to environmental hazards such as, but not limited to, excessive noise, dust, or extremes in temperatures. Exposure to communicable diseases and moderately adverse working conditions due to the need to perform certain patient care activities can be expected.