RESPIRATORY CARE THERAPIST
SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Cardiopulmonary Director and Supervisor of Cardiopulmonary performs therapy directed towards the treatment and normalization of patients, ranging from Neonatal to Geriatrics, with abnormalities or deficiencies of the pulmonary system. Performs diagnostic procedures within the Cardiopulmonary Service. Performs related duties as requested to assure smooth shift operation.

AGE SPECIFIC: Patient care employees must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to patients of all age groups--must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development through the life span, possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status, and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's needs in relation to age and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures.

This position possesses the ability to obtain and interpret information considering age specific needs for the following age groups:
  X      0-28 days     Neonate       X      12-18 yrs     Adolescent
  X      29 days-18 mo days     Infant / Young Toddler               X      19-40 yrs     Young Adult
  X      18 mo-3 yrs     Toddler       X      40-65 yrs     Middle Adult
  X      3-6 yrs     Preschooler     X      >65 yrs     Older Adult
  X      6-12 yrs     School Age         

QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Currently licensed by the State of California as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
  2. Current basic CPR certification.
  3. NRP required if assigned to NICU.

NOTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL BLOOD AND BODY FLUID EXPOSURE:
The risk category for this position to potential exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens is indicated below:

  X   CATEGORY I: Tasks that will involve potential exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissue.
___ CATEGORY II: Tasks that may involve potential exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissue, and employment and employment may require performing unplanned Category I tasks.
___ CATEGORY III: Tasks that involve no exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissue and Category I and II tasks are not a condition of employment.

Standard precautions are utilized for the care of all patients. Category I and Category II employees are eligible for Hepatitis B vaccination at no cost to the employee.