Respiratory Therapist

As a Respiratory Therapist at Resurrection Medical Center, your main responsibilities include performing respiratory therapeutic and pulmonary diagnostic procedures as ordered by physicians. You'll assess patient needs, plan specific management strategies, implement treatment plans, and document care, ensuring to cater to the unique needs of each patient based on their age and condition. Your role also may involve leading the team in the absence of a supervisor, ensuring that all procedures are followed accurately and efficiently.

To qualify for the Respiratory Therapist position at Resurrection Medical Center, candidates must possess a current State Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license and be a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board of Respiratory Care or obtain it within three months of hiring. Additional certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Adult Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) are required upon hire. A preference is given to candidates with a Neonatal Resuscitation Program certificate and an Associate or Bachelor's degree.

While previous experience is not mandatory, Resurrection Medical Center prefers candidates for the Respiratory Therapist role to have at least two years of acute care experience. This background helps in managing the variety of cases you’ll encounter, enhancing your ability to provide excellent patient care under pressure and ensuring you can navigate complex situations that arise in a fast-paced environment.

Respiratory Therapists at Resurrection Medical Center can expect to work night shifts from 7 PM to 7 AM, with rotating holidays and weekends. This schedule is designed to ensure the hospital provides continuous care to patients requiring respiratory therapy at all hours, reinforcing the importance of flexible staffing in healthcare.

At Resurrection Medical Center, Respiratory Therapists enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, a 401K retirement plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and tuition reimbursement. Additionally, employees have access to various voluntary benefit options, allowing them to customize their benefits to better fit their personal and family needs.

In answering this question, reflect on your passion for patient care and the desire to make a difference in the lives of those with respiratory issues. Mention your dedication to helping patients breathe easier and your commitment to staying up-to-date with best practices in respiratory therapy.

Choose a specific example that highlights your problem-solving skills, ability to stay calm under pressure, and how you worked collaboratively with your team. Explain the situation clearly, your actions, and the positive outcome that resulted.

Discuss your commitment to professional development, such as attending seminars, enrolling in continuing education courses, reading relevant articles, or participating in professional organizations related to respiratory therapy.

Explain the standard assessments you perform first, such as checking vital signs and oxygen levels, followed by the various protocols you adhere to based on the patient’s specific condition, ensuring you include collaboration with your healthcare team.

Highlight your approach to communication and teamwork. Describe how you would respectfully voice your concerns, provide evidence-based recommendations, and work together with the physician to reach a consensus that prioritizes patient care.

Mention essential skills such as strong critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to work under pressure. Emphasizing patient-centered care and empathy also showcases your commitment to ethical practices in healthcare.

Be specific about the equipment you've worked with, including CPAP machines, nebulizers, and ventilators. Discuss any training or credentials you have regarding this equipment and your confidence in operating it effectively to ensure patient safety.

Share your strategies for stress management, such as taking breaks, practicing mindfulness or deep-breathing techniques, and relying on your team for support. Highlight how these practices help you maintain a high level of performance in your role.

Discuss the importance of patient education and how you tailor your communication to cater to the patient’s understanding level. Mention strategies for ensuring patients grasp essential concepts and implementing action plans to manage their conditions.

Reflect on the values and mission of Resurrection Medical Center that align with your own, such as their commitment to quality patient care and inclusiveness. Mention any positive insights you’ve gathered about the work culture during your research or interactions with potential colleagues.