POSITION SUMMARY DEFINITION Under supervision, to administer therapeutic gases, aerosolized medications, and basic pulmonary hygiene; provides CPR when needed to patients with cardiopulmonary disorders; and performs other related duties as required. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This class represents the fully qualified level in the Respiratory Care Practitioner series. Positions in this class are characterized by their responsibility for providing respiratory care services as prescribed by a physician in the Emergency Room, non-critical ambulatory or ward patients; and when needed in the critical care areas. Positions in this class are distinguished from the Respiratory Care Practitioner I (Certified) and II (Registry Eligible) in that this position can be assigned the most critical ventilator patients, required to perform more advanced blood gas laboratory responsibilities and has obtained full registration from the Respiratory Care Board, California State Department of Consumer Affairs. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way would be: Experience: None to six months experience required; three years preferred. Education (Required): Successful completion of a Respiratory Therapy training program approved by the American Medical Association. Recognition by the National board for Respiratory Care as a Registered Respiratory Therapist; possession of an Associate of Science Degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited college. License / Certificate: Possession of current Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license issued by the Respiratory Care Board, California Statement Department of Consumer Affairs. Certificate of Recognition by the National Board for Respiratory Care as a Registered Respiratory Therapist Current BLS, ACLS, NRP, PALS (Through AHA Only) KNOWLEDGE & ABILITIES Knowledge of: Principles and practices used in the operation of respiratory care treatments and equipment. Signs and symptoms of cardiopulmonary diseases. Patient assessments and documentation of observations in medical records. Medical terminology, acute care procedures and equipment. Medication administration and any policies and procedures of the setting assigned. Ability to: Use respiratory care equipment and techniques for effective treatment of a variety of cardiopulmonary diseases. Identify and intervene when minor repairs on various respiratory equipment. Follow both oral and written instructions of the physician and hospital staff. Effectively communicate with other member of the health care team. Instruct others in the use and operation of respiratory care equipment or techniques. Complete and maintain reports and patient records. Make observations of situations accurately and report them so effective action can be taken according to rules of documentation and policies and procedures. Manage emergency or crisis situations; requires judgment/action which could result in undesirable patient outcomes. AGE-SPECIFIC COMPETENCY Maintains, demonstrates and is assessed on the knowledge and skills necessary to provide for physical, psychosocial and cultural needs appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her assigned unit.