Respiratory Therapist (RRT) NICU

Job Requirements

Unit Summary

In the dynamic environment of the SMC/NICU, respiratory therapists are offered the opportunity to practice at the pinnacle of their skills, with a comprehensive 12-16 week orientation designed to enhance specialized techniques and foster professional growth. As integral members of our NICU transport team, therapists not only attend all high-risk deliveries but also regularly utilize their intubation expertise in life-saving scenarios. Our unit provides substantial autonomy, adhering to protocols that empower therapists to appropriately wean patients while being actively involved in pediatric trauma cases in our level three emergency trauma center. Beyond NICU responsibilities, our therapists also manage a four-bed PICU unit and a pediatric ward, contributing to a collaborative environment that prioritizes open communication, teamwork, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Together, we are nurturing a positive culture built on trust and respect, enhancing the care we provide to our youngest patients.

Position Summary

The Registered Respiratory Therapist under the guidance of the Department Director/Manager, and Medical Director utilizes knowledge and skill at the advanced level to provide direct age specific and culturally appropriate patient care through provision of adequate ventilation and oxygenation by use of medical gases and breathing equipment. Administers respiratory medications and performs invasive procedures, such as arterial blood sampling punctures, endotracheal intubation/extubation, tracheostomy care and other procedures as outlined on the competency grid form. Assists as a clinical resource and participates in patient and staff education.

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Associate degree graduate of specialized training in an approved Respiratory Therapy 2-year program or meets minimum requirements to qualify to take and pass the NBRC RRT examinations

Experience

• Successful completion of new hire orientation within probationary period.
• Must successfully complete annual Respiratory Care Hospital required competency assessment within the probationary period.

License/Registration/Certifications

• Must be Registered by the National Board for Respiratory Care with RRT credential
• Must have current South Carolina Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License
• Must have and maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification as a minimum
• Adult critical care requires ACLS and PALS if applicable
• NICU/Pediatrics area requires NRP and PALS certifications; STABLE certification is preferred if applicable
• Must opt into the National Board of Respiratory Care's searchable registry for the duration of employment with SRHS

Preferred Requirements

Preferred Education

• Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy or a Bachelors in Respiratory Therapy

Preferred Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in the specialty area (Ex. Adult critical care, Neonatal/Pediatrics area)
• Specialized training and 1-year experience in Pulmonary Functions and cardiac testing if applicable

Preferred License/Registration/Certifications

• Current certification in BLS, ACLS and PALS in adult critical care
• Current certification in BLS, PALS and NRP for Neonatal/Pediatric specialty areas
• All areas require SC Respiratory Care Practitioner License; NBRC Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential

Core Job Responsibilities

• Performs and documents detailed age specific respiratory assessment including heart rate, breath sounds, respiratory rate, and sputum characteristics, and notifies the physician as appropriate any identified abnormalities.
• Checks EMR to verify physician orders for new/current and/or changes in orders on all assigned patients by reviewing medication list throughout the shift.
• Recommends therapy modifications to ensure appropriateness of care using medical director approved oxygen and aerosol protocols.
• Initiates mechanical invasive and non-invasive ventilation per physician order; performs ventilator bundles on all ventilated patients.
• Performs arterial sampling draws and moderate complexity lab testing to include blood gases, Hemoglobin, and basic electrolytes per policy and procedure. Also responsible for verifying panic values by policy.
• Responds to all assigned designated medical alerts, establishes, and maintains the airway.
• Assists the physician with bronchoscopy procedure as requested.
• Documents all assessments and procedures in EMR.
• Ensures that appropriate critical path/standard of care/plan of care is identified and collaboratively implemented.
• Other Duties as Assigned Available