In addition to performing duties and responsibilities of a Sr Respiratory Therapist, RRT and under indirect supervision, coordinates diagnostic and therapeutic clinical procedures to best meet the needs of the patient, physician, department and hospital during the assigned shift. Defined responsibilities are performed in all patient populations and in all patient service areas.

Eligible applicants will be offered a sign-on bonus of $15,000 for a 2 year work commitment.

Responsibilities:

• Must successfully complete 2 approved projects from the department's Project List during each annual performance review period.

• Coordinates scheduling needs and directs shift assignments; resolves problems, completes all records and reports and ensures hospital and department policies and procedures are followed. Functions as a Supervisor based on department needs. Coaches new Respiratory Therapists and students during their orientation and training. Assists with the evaluation process for staff and students.

• May participate in quality improvement activities and initiatives. May assist with special projects. May assist with the planning and implementation of clinical research activities and initiatives.

• Performs the duties of a Sr. Respiratory Therapist:a.Reads prescription, measures arterial blood gases, and reviews patient information to assess patient condition and determine requirements for treatment, such as type and duration of therapy, and medication dosages. Determines most suitable method of administering inhalants, precautions to be observed, and modifications which may be needed that will be compatible with physician's orders.b.Sets up and operates devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators. Operates equipment to ensure specified parameters of treatment, such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature, and to administer medicinal gases and aerosol drugs to patients. Observes equipment function and adjusts equipment to obtain optimum results to therapy. Inspects and tests respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment functions safely and efficiently.

• c.Monitors patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes. Performs bronchopulmonary drainage and assists patient in performing breathing exercises. Performs pulmonary function tests to be used by physician in diagnosis of case. Consults with physician in the event of adverse reactions.d.Maintains patient's chart that contains pertinent identification and therapy information.e.Orders repairs when needed. Demonstrates respiratory care procedures to trainees and other health care personnel. Supervises students during training. f.Assists to transport mechanically ventilated patients. Responds to all code situations.

• Under indirect supervision, is responsible for the utilization of departmental resources. Participates in the evaluation and purchase of new equipment, coordinates major equipment repair and preventive maintenance, and maintains records and reports of equipment maintenance.

• Graduate of a Co ARC (Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care) approved Respiratory program required

• Associate's degree is required; Bachelor's degree is preferred

• 4 years of total respiratory care experience with a minimum of 2 years in critical care is required

• Must successfully complete 2 approved projects from the department's Project List during each annual performance review period

• Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license in the practicing state required.

• Basic Life Support or Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation required

• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) required

• Respiratory therapists who receive their RRT credential from the NBRC after July 1, 2002 are required to maintain certification under the NBRC requirements Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances: CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire

• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

• Osteopathic Respiratory Care OR Respiratory Care Practitioners (RCP)

• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

• Act 33 with renewal

• Act 34 with renewal

• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran