Respiratory Therapist (PRN/Nights)

Join Palestine Regional Medical Center in Palestine, TX, a 150-bed hospital that has recently earned the prestigious Leapfrog “A” Safety Grade, the Platinum Award for quality from parent-company ScionHealth, and certification as a Chest Pain Center and Level IV Trauma facility. Palestine Regional provides a range of comprehensive care, including the latest in diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitative services, both on an inpatient and outpatient basis. Palestine Regional is an integral part of the local community, giving you the chance to grow your career while making a real impact close to home.

Job Summary

The Respiratory Therapist provides respiratory care to patients of all age groups by performing respiratory therapy treatments, ventilator management, diagnostic testing, and emergency procedures. The Respiratory Therapist collaborates with the healthcare team to deliver quality, patient-centered care in accordance with clinical policies, procedures, and professional standards.

Essential Functions

• Performs routine respiratory therapy procedures including oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, chest physiotherapy, and suctioning.
• Assists with emergency interventions, including manual resuscitation and code response.
• Manages and monitors mechanical ventilators, including appropriate parameter adjustments and troubleshooting.
• Obtains and interprets arterial blood gases and communicates results.
• Conducts pulmonary function testing and 12-lead EKGs; identifies life-threatening arrhythmias.
• Maintains and calibrates respiratory equipment according to infection control guidelines.
• Documents care delivered, interventions, and patient responses accurately and in a timely manner.
• Assists with quality improvement activities and departmental clerical functions.
• Communicates effectively with patients, families, and healthcare staff.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Strong foundational knowledge of respiratory therapy equipment and procedures.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrates safe practice and infection control compliance.
• Physically capable of prolonged standing, walking, lifting up to 50 lbs, and operating patient care equipment.
• Works cooperatively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Exposure to blood, body fluids, airborne pathogens, hazardous materials, and varying temperatures.
• Requires use of personal protective equipment and adherence to OSHA standards.

Education

• Graduate of a two-year AMA-approved respiratory therapy program leading to CRT or RRT eligibility.

Licenses/Certifications

• Current state license or certification as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) required within time frame required by facility policy.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) required within time frame required by facility policy.
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) (per facility requirements) within time frame required by facility policy.

Experience

• Experience in an acute care or clinical environment preferred.
• Requires critical thinking skills, judgment, and the ability to work independently in high-stress situations.