Summary:
The Lead Respiratory Therapist at our MDI Hospital is responsible for providing comprehensive respiratory care services while assuming a lead role within the Cardiopulmonary Department. The Lead Respiratory Therapist will supervise and guide the respiratory therapy team, ensuring the highest quality patient care and compliance with hospital policies and industry standards. This position requires a strong commitment to patient well-being, exceptional clinical skills, and effective leadership abilities.
Benefits:
MDI Hospital and Birch Bay Retirement Village offer a competitive salary, robust medical/dental/vision/life insurance, identity theft protection program, matching retirement plan, ample paid time off, a comprehensive award winning wellness program with reimbursement incentives, generous tuition reimbursement, and continuing education benefits. Some positions may qualify for a sign on bonus and relocation assistance.
EEO Statement:
MDI Hospital and Birch Bay Retirement Village provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.
Requirements
Major Responsibility Areas for this position (All are Essential Functions):
1. Clinical Expertise:
a. Perform advanced respiratory therapy procedures, such as intubations, arterial blood gas sampling, ventilator management, and airway management.
b. Evaluate patients with complex respiratory conditions, formulate care plans, and adjust treatments as necessary.
c. Collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure patients receive optimal respiratory care.
Measurement:
2. Leadership and Supervision:
a. Mentor, and train respiratory therapy staff, ensuring they maintain proficiency in respiratory care procedures and maintain a high standard of patient care.
b. Provide leadership in day-to-day operations of the department.
c. Collaborate with the Director to develop and implement departmental policies and procedures.
Measurement:
3. – Quality Assurance and Compliance:
a. Ensure that respiratory care services are delivered in accordance with hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
b. Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and proper functioning of respiratory therapy equipment.
c. Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and department efficiency.
Measurement:
4. Patient Education:
a. Educate patients and their families on respiratory conditions, treatments, and self-care.
b. Provide guidance on the proper use of equipment, such as inhalers, nebulizers, and home ventilation systems.
c. Foster an environment that supports patients in their respiratory care journey.
Measurement: .
5. Documentation and Reporting:
a. Maintain accurate and complete patient records, documenting assessments, interventions, and outcomes.
b. Ensure the timely and accurate submission of billing and reimbursement documentation.
Measurement:
6. Communication and Collaboration:
a. Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other therapists, to coordinate care plans and treatment strategies.
b. Serve as a resource for healthcare providers and other staff regarding respiratory care best practices.
c. Communicate effectively with patients, their families, and caregivers, addressing their questions and concerns.
Education, Training or Certifications Required:
1. Holds a current Maine license as a Certified or Registered Respiratory Therapist.
2. Current BLS provider status.
Experience Required:
1. Recent training/experience in Respiratory Care and Ventilator Management.
2. Recent training/experience in performing EKGs/Stress Tests.
Cognitive Requirements:
1. Possess computer skills.
2. Rhythm identification skills for EKGs.
3. Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
4. Strong written and verbal skills.
Physical Demands:
1. Able to sit, stand and/or walk for a 8-12 hour shift. Has adequate hearing, vision, speech and manual dexterity to communicate with the patients and to complete any necessary daily tasks.
2. General health must be such as to regularly work scheduled hours.
3. Must be able to bend and lift 25 - 50 pounds patients or oxygen cylinders).
4. Must be able to push non-motorized (on wheels) equipment, weighing up to 300 lbs. throughout the Hospital (ventilator).
5. Must be able to respond to the Hospital within guidelines when on call.
Environment:
1. Potential for exposure to blood and body fluids (especially respiratory secretions).
2. Potential for exposure to infectious diseases.
3. Potential for periods of high stress.