The Respiratory Therapist II provides advanced respiratory care, primarily in critical care settings, demonstrating independent decision-making and protocol management. Key responsibilities include:
- Performing patient assessments, administering aerosolized medications, and managing ventilators, including weaning and waveform interpretation.
- Conducting airway management procedures such as intubation, extubation, and tracheostomy care.
- Sampling and analyzing arterial blood gases, and educating patients, families, and support systems.
- Collaborating with healthcare team members to plan and deliver personalized patient care, addressing biological, emotional, developmental, and psychosocial needs.
- Mentoring and precepting new staff, students, and peers, and assisting in invasive and non-invasive procedures.
- Promoting a safe, quality environment through accurate documentation, adherence to safety protocols, and participation in performance improvement initiatives.
Qualifications include:
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy (preferred).
- Certifications in BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP, and NBRC-RRT or RCP, all required upon hire.
- 0-2 years of clinical experience, with at least 6 months in critical care.
Skills required: effective communication, critical thinking, collaboration with healthcare professionals, computer proficiency, and excellent assessment and customer service skills.