Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Monitors patients’ oxygen treatments by ensuring appropriate oxygen settings according to physician orders. Obtains and documents vital signs. Stocks, maintains and inventories respiratory therapy equipment and supplies.

Qualifications

Two years upper level health sciences course work or equivalency required; Basic Life Support Care Provider card or obtain one within one month of hire. Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required.

This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated requirements. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Moniters and charts patients’ oxygen use and ensures appropriate oxygen settings as stated in physician orders.
2. Stocks supply carts with respiratory equipment and ensures adequate supply of oxygen cylinders throughout hospital.
3. Prepares respiratory equipment for patient treatments by setting up, inspecting and performing minor repairs.
4. Follows department procedures for accurate and complete chart entries as well as legal and departmental documentation.
5. Modifies and improvises patient equipment to meet unique situations as instructed by supervisor.
6. Communicates pertinent observations of patient status to on-coming shift and shift supervisor.

Problem Solving

The incumbent independently assesses daily equipment needs and best procurement approaches based upon orders given by supervisor. This position has the ability to setup, operate and maintain support machines as well as improvise for unique situations. The desire and ability to learn new clinical procedures and work with newly acquired equipment is essential to provide the quality patient care that is expected.

Comments

Extended shifts lasting up to twelve hours are required for this position.

The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit.  The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.