Respiratory Care Practitioner II

A Respiratory Care Practitioner II at Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital is tasked with administering the full range of respiratory care modalities, initiating and terminating mechanical ventilation, and operating blood gas analyzers in all patient care areas. This vital role also includes providing quality respiratory services, carrying out diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and acting as a clinical resource to the healthcare team.

To qualify for the Respiratory Care Practitioner II position at Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital, applicants need a current California RCP license, completion of an AMA-approved Respiratory Therapy program, and at least two years of experience in an acute care environment, including one year in critical care. Certifications for BLS, ACLS, and PALS are also required.

At Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital, Respiratory Care Practitioner II employees are offered comprehensive benefits that include health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, adoption assistance, and paid time off. Additional perks like tuition assistance and wellness programs help support both personal and professional growth.

In the role of a Respiratory Care Practitioner II at Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital, you can expect a collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment that emphasizes quality care for patients across all age groups, including neonates and geriatrics. The hospital strives to foster inclusion and diversity, and actively encourages its staff to develop expertise through educational opportunities.

Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital prioritizes employee wellness for Respiratory Care Practitioner II positions through various initiatives including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness programs, and flexible work hours. The institution believes that a supportive work environment is crucial for healthcare professionals to deliver excellent patient care.

In your response, describe that initiating mechanical ventilation involves careful assessment of the patient's condition, including oxygen saturation and respiratory status, followed by the selection of appropriate ventilator settings. Terminating ventilation requires a thorough evaluation of the patient's readiness, often guided by protocols or physician orders.

Emphasize your approach to patient education, which includes assessing the patient's knowledge level, explaining treatment plans in understandable terms, and encouraging questions to foster engagement. Providing written materials and following up with patients can also be effective strategies.

Illustrate your critical thinking and problem-solving skills by recounting a specific incident where you assessed and addressed a severe respiratory complication, detailing the interventions you put in place and the outcome.

Discuss your commitment to continuous professional development through attending workshops, conferences, and maintaining certifications while subscribing to relevant medical journals or participating in professional organizations related to respiratory care.

Share any specific experiences you have had in treating neonatal or pediatric patients, emphasizing the unique challenges and techniques that are involved in their care, and how this has shaped your practice.

Highlight the importance of clear communication and establishing trust among team members when working collaboratively. Discuss strategies like case discussions, meetings, and shared patient care plans to improve outcomes.

Articulate your understanding that standardized protocols ensure consistent and high-quality patient care, reduce variability in treatments, and enhance patient safety while allowing for the personalized care needed in unique situations.

Detail your hands-on experience with blood gas analyzers, covering aspects such as operating the equipment, interpreting results, and how these results influence clinical decisions and patient treatment plans.

List your relevant certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, and NRP, explaining how each one equips you with the skills necessary for providing high-quality respiratory care across various settings.

Express your admiration for the hospital's reputation for excellence, its commitment to community service, and the inclusive environment that aligns with your professional values. Highlight how you see yourself contributing to their mission of providing compassionate care.