Respiratory Care Practitioner

Job Summary

Demonstrates an understanding of the cognitive, physical, emotional, and chronological maturation process in delivering services to patients of the age group served. Able to assess data reflective of the patients status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patients requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs and to provide the care needed in accordance with department policy.

Essential Responsibilities

• Upholds Kaiser Permanentes Policies and Procedures, Principles of Responsibilities and applicable state, federal and local laws.
• Complies with organizational rules, policies and procedures pertaining to Accreditation and Licensing (e.g., TJC, CAC Title 22, Safety, Infection Control, etc.).
• Treats all patients in accordance with the Patients Bill of Rights; maintains the privacy and confidentiality of both members and employees with regards to medical records and communication regarding disease, conditions and status.
• Provides direct/indirect care and service to patient/member groups (neonatal, pediatric and adult ages and classifications).
• Demonstrates an understanding of the cognitive, physical, emotional and chronological maturation process in delivering services to patients of the age group served.
• Participates in patient care rounds as an active member of the critical care team.
• Maintains knowledge of admitting diagnosis and pulmonary pathophysiology for assigned patients; performs patient assessment and provides appropriate therapy.
• Evaluates and utilizes clinical data.
• Evaluates and documents patient response to all respiratory therapy.
• Provides treatment services such as: oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy and humidification, mechanical ventilation and physiotherapy and emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• Provides assessment of patients condition including obtaining a brief respiratory history, auscultation of the chest by stethoscope and performing spirometry, recording findings in the patients chart.
• Draws arterial blood from patient for blood gas analysis.
• Maintains and operates blood gas analyzers.
• Transports patients requiring respiratory assistance.
• Transports may be made within the medical center or to other medical center locations.
• Performs other duties as required.
• Promotes, ensures, and improves customer service to internal/external customers by demonstrating skills which are consistent with the organizations philosophy. KP Service Standards: Follows established service standards as set forth in LMPs ABCs. That is, Take Initiative, Take Responsibility, Take Care, and Take Pride. Demonstrate compliance in all above four areas. Examples: make a positive first impression, protect patient privacy and confidentiality, assume ownership, resolve conflict, show respect, maintain your environment, and support your team.
• Assume other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed.