Respiratory Therapist at Billings Clinic in Billings, Montana

Job Description:

The incumbent in this position is responsible for patient/client assessment and matching the proper and most efficacious equipment (DME) to meet the needs of all home care patient/clients who are referred to the home oxygen and durable medical equipment service. Consults with physicians, nurses, and members of the health care team regarding patient/client related care, sales and services as needed. Provides patient/client assessment and care. Assesses the home environment and the patient/client's ability to deal with the specific equipment used and train them accordingly. Effectively implements therapies and applies equipment knowledge for any given scenario to meet patient/client needs. Responsible for documentation of all therapy, training, and follow up performed.


Essential Job Functions


• Performs the following respiratory care functions:
• Instructs, administers, and monitors respiratory care services and treatments to patients/clients.
• Recognizes and reports any unusual reactions to treatment, contraindications to treatment or inappropriate use of therapy or equipment.
• Checks and maintains respiratory therapy equipment in use by patient/client to ensure proper function and correct use by patient/client.
• Maintains and records patient/client treatments on patient/client chart, in department records, and in appropriate computer databases.
• Cleans, disinfects and reassembles equipment.
• Accurately assesses patient/client status and suggest appropriate therapeutic/equipment interventions.
• Initiates, monitors and makes necessary changes based on physician orders for home care equipment ventilators.
• Provides support and assistance in hospital and will be required to rotate through a Home Oxygen/DME on-call schedule.
• Conducts educational sessions for department and ancillary departments as necessary, as well as patient/clients, families and caregivers.
• Considers the appropriateness of care based on the age of the patient/client.
• Utilizes performance improvement principles to assess and improve quality of service. May participate in the service Quality Improvement program.
• Identifies needs and sets goals for own growth and development; meets all system/departmental requirements.
• Maintains ongoing knowledge of current trends and techniques in the field of respiratory care, especially home care.