Respiratory Care Practitioner

Description:

Mercy Health, a leading faith-based healthcare organization, is seeking an experienced Respiratory Care Practitioner II to join its Defiance Hospital team. This role is integral in providing high-quality respiratory care, ensuring the well-being of patients through assessment, intervention, and education, in alignment with Mercy Health’s mission of compassion, integrity, and service.

As a Respiratory Care Practitioner II, you will be responsible for comprehensive respiratory therapy procedures including oxygen and aerosolized medication delivery, ventilator care, bronchial hygiene, and diagnostic services. The position demands close patient monitoring, performance evaluation, and clinical judgment to adapt care plans as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a Charge Therapist, ensuring adequate respiratory care staffing, managing shift assignments, and maintaining effective coverage.

• Assist physicians with advanced procedures such as bronchoscopy, intubation, tracheostomy care, and invasive monitoring.

• Administer CPR, airway management, and ensure adherence to AHA ACLS protocols.

• Perform ventilator management, maintaining equipment integrity and monitoring patient response.

• Conduct pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and interpret results as needed.

• Provide education to patients and families on respiratory techniques, including incentive spirometry, inhaler use, and home aerosol therapy.

• Perform arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, arterial punctures, and EKGs, interpreting findings for clinical decisions.

• Administer IPPB, aerosol therapy, and postural drainage, observing patient response and adjusting treatment accordingly.

• Ensure maintenance of respiratory therapy equipment, respond promptly to emergency codes, and provide hands-on support during cardiopulmonary resuscitations.

• Act as a preceptor for new staff or students, ensuring high standards of respiratory care and adherence to hospital policies.

Education Requirements:

• Required: Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field

• Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy, Health Care, Healthcare Administration, or Business Administration

Licensing & Certifications:

• Required:

  • Current Respiratory Care License (state-specific)

  • NBRC Credential

  • BLS (Basic Life Support) – American Heart Association

  • ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) – American Heart Association or Red Cross

  • PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) – American Heart Association

  • Valid driver’s license (required for Home Care/DME)

• Preferred:

  • Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

  • NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program) – AAP/AWHONN

  • Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT)

  • Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT)

  • ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialist) – NBRC

  • EPIC EHR Training

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective patient and team interaction

• Proficiency in ventilator management, oxygen therapy, and non-invasive respiratory support

• Ability to perform diagnostic testing, arterial blood gas analysis, and EKG monitoring

• Excellent organizational and time management abilities

• Compassionate, patient-focused approach aligned with Mercy Health’s mission and values

What Mercy Health Offers:

• Competitive pay, incentives, and 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with prescription coverage

• Paid time off, parental leave, and disability coverage

• Tuition assistance, professional development, and continuing education opportunities

• Access to mental health resources and family support programs