Summary
The recruitment is for a Registered Respiratory Therapist, credentialed by and in good standing with the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and current Respiratory Therapy License. The incumbent will work in critical, non-critical, emergent, and clinical areas of the hospital and perform other duties within their scope of practice and as assigned by supervisor.
This job is open to
Clarification from the agency
This position is open to US Citizens
Duties
Major functions may include but are not limited to the following and require that the employee, with or without reasonable accommodations, be able to:
- Maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) certified and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certifications. Both are mandatory requirements of Code Teams members.
- Promptly respond to all STAT pages regarding a patient's cardio-pulmonary status, making an assessment of and providing emergency ventilation and /or oxygenation support for patients as needed.
- Promptly responds to cardiac/respiratory arrest, provides emergency airway management and assists in CPR.
- Assist in endotracheal tube insertion and securing of tube placement. Upon completion of Advanced Cardiac Life Support course and training by an anesthesiologist in proper techniques of intubation (OORAM certified), the incumbent may perform intubation in critical or life-threatening situations if hospital privileges are approved.
- Assess airway patency, including auscultation of the lung field and documentation of findings.
- Assesses and document the ventilatory status of the patient and provide assistance in determining the course of care.
- Provide and monitor delivery of inhaled medication as directed and prescribed by a physician. This can be delivered by, but not limited to updraft nebulizers, meter dose inhalers and/or spin inhalers. The incumbent will monitor and document effectiveness of medication, cardiac response before and after delivery, changes in breath sounds, cough production and patients' response, if possible, to effectiveness of medication delivery and documenting any adverse reactions. Complies with BCMA directive.
- Provide and monitor delivery of oxygen administration as ordered and directed by a physician. This can be delivered by, but not limited to oxygen delivery devices such as nasal cannulas, oxygen mask, venturi mask, non-rebreathing mask, aerosolized oxygen devices and high flow delivery devices. The incumbent will monitor and document type of delivery device, effectiveness of delivery by pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas results, patient's work of breathing pattern and observed dyspnea on exertion and any other adverse reactions.
- Provide and monitor all modes of invasive and noninvasive mechanical ventilation as ordered and directed
by a physician. Mechanical ventilation can include, but not limited to volume- controlled ventilation, pressure-controlled ventilation, pressure support ventilation, and bi-level invasive and noninvasive ventilation.
- Perform, monitor, and document physician order changing the modes of ventilation, oxygen concentration, positive end expiratory pressure, pressure support, peak flow, sensitivity, inspiratory pressure, expiratory pressures, respiratory mechanics and alarm settings on all mechanical ventilatory devices.
- Monitor and document per physician orders static and dynamic compliance, airway resistance, rapid shallow breathing index, pressure/volume/flow graphics or other available data to enhance ventilator and/or artificial airway weaning. Keep abreast of new and effective means of monitoring and assist in the implementation of protocols to improve weaning methods.
- Provide and document artificial airway maintenance and care to ensure a mechanism to prevent nosocomial infections. This will include both endotracheal tube and tracheotomy tubes as provided by respiratory care policies and procedures.
- Provide and document airway clearance by either endotracheal, tracheal or nasotracheal suctioning utilizing strict infection control measures at all times.
- Provide input and assistance in changing or downsizing of tracheotomy tubes per a physician order.
- Assure preventive measures are taken and are documented to decrease Hospital Acquired Pressure Incidents with endotracheal tubes or masks.
- Provide and document chest physiotherapy as directed by a physician.
- Perform and document arterial punctures to obtain arterial blood gas samples for analysis per the Joint Commission standards, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations. Maintaining biohazard and infection control policy standards at all times.
- Perform arterial blood gas analysis. Always maintains biohazard and infection control policy standards. Documenting and informing ordering physician of any values (pH/PaCO2/PaO2) that fall within the "Critical Value Range".
- Perform diagnostic testing procedures to include but not limited to bedside spirometery, nocturnal oximetry and oxygen therapy assessments, 6- minute walk test, wrist oximetry and home sleep studies within facility.
- Review on an annual basis, as new changes are provided, or policies are updated the departments Policy and Procedure Manual.
- Other duties as assigned.
Work Schedule: Variable days 7:30 P.M.- 8:00 A.M.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Functional Statement #: 000000
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job.
- All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA.
- Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- You may be required to serve a probationary period.
- Subject to background/security investigation.
- Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process.
- Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP).
- Participation in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination program is a requirement for all Veterans Health Administration Health Care Personnel (HCP) - See "Additional Information" below for details.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
- Citizenship: Citizen of the United States.
- Education: Individuals must have successfully completed a respiratory care program accredited by the CoARC or its successor.
- Licensure: Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a full, current and unrestricted license from a state to practice as an RRT.
- Credential: Persons appointed or reassigned to RRT positions in the GS-0601 series must possess and maintain for the duration of employment a valid, current, unrestricted credential of RRT.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must be proficient in spoken and written English.
Preferred Experience/Qualifications: 1 Year Experience as a Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Grade Determinations: In addition to the basic requirements above, applicants must meet the grade requirements below
GS-11 Experience: Applicants must have one year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-9 level. In addition, candidates must demonstrate all the following KSAs:
- Ability to collaboratively consult with physicians and other healthcare professionals for complex respiratory care to develop care plans to provide favorable patient outcomes.
- Skill in evaluating the efficacies of therapeutic modalities.
- Skill in performing advanced airway and ventilation management.
Assignments: This assignment is the full performance level. RRTs at this grade level work independently providing respiratory care in both inpatient and/or outpatient settings. The specific assignments are dependent on facility structure and complexity levels. They use data and patient assessment to establish appropriate plan of care and determine if outcomes are being met. They consult with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality of patient care within area of specialty. They manage and maintain the airway and ventilation of the patient using appropriate mechanical means. RRTs determine and implement complex respiratory care such as protocols, respiratory modalities, bronchoscopy, medications or supplemental oxygen and intubation. They monitor critical systems. They use advanced modes of ventilation and outpatient services, such as home ventilators and COPD case management. RRTs suggest alternate modes of treatment where indicated based on assessment and analysis of patient response to treatment. RRTs at this grade level may perform invasive procedures such as arterial line placement. They serve as a preceptor to lower graded staff. They may lead projects developing new policies, procedures or protocols.
References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G11- Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Physical Requirements: The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion such as standing or walking for prolonged periods of time; frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and stretching to set up and take apart respiratory equipment and apparatus; lifting, repositioning, safely moving patients (over 100 lbs.) with assistance as needed; and pushing or pulling heavy objects (over 50 lbs.) such as oxygen tanks and/or ventilator equipment, routinely lifting and carrying small equipment items (less than 50 lbs.). The work may require specific physical characteristics and abilities such as above-average dexterity to perform intricate respiratory therapy procedures.
Education
IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
How You Will Be Evaluated
You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position.
It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment.
Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
VA Form 10-2850c Application for Associated Health Occupations can be found at: About VA Form 10-2850C | Veterans Affairs.
The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please use this checklist to ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc.
- Cover Letter
- DD-214/ Statement of Service
- Disability Letter (VA)
- License
- Other (1)
- Professional Certification
- Resume
- Separation Notice (RIF)
- SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action
- Transcript
Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference.
If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from
schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online.
To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 10/03/2024 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12551833.
- To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package.
NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
To verify your application is complete, log into your USA JOBS account, https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USA JOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USA JOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
Next steps
Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. After we receive application packages (including all required documents) and the vacancy announcement closes, we will review applications to ensure qualification and eligibility requirements are met. After the review is complete, a referral certificate(s) is issued and applicants will be notified of their status by email. Referred applicants will be notified as such and may be contacted directly by the hiring office for an interview. All referred applicants receive a final notification once a selection decision has been made.
You may check the status of your application at any time by logging into your USA Jobs account and clicking on Applications. Information regarding your application status can be found in the USAJobs Help Center.
NOTE: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). It is a requirement that all HCP to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccination or obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Wearing a face mask is required when an exemption to the influenza vaccination has been granted. HCP in violation of this directive may face disciplinary action up to and including removal from federal service. HCP are individuals who, during the influenza season, work in VHA locations or who come into contact with VA patients or other HCP as part of their duties. VHA locations include, but are not limited to, VA hospitals and associated clinics, community living centers (CLCs), community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), domiciliary units, Vet centers and VA-leased medical facilities. HCP include all VA licensed and unlicensed, clinical and administrative, remote and onsite, paid and without compensation, full- and part-time employees, intermittent employees, fee basis employees, VA contractors, researchers, volunteers and health professions trainees (HPTs) who are expected to perform any or all of their work at these facilities. HPTs may be paid or unpaid and include residents, interns, fellows and students. HCP also includes VHA personnel providing home-based care to Veterans and drivers and other personnel whose duties put them in contact with patients outside VA medical facilities.
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