Job: Respiratory Care Practitioner

Position Summary:
Provides Respiratory Therapy in all non-critical areas of the hospital, with a minimum of one critical care area (NICU, ICU/ER) as ordered by the Medical Staff of St. Mary Medical Center. Such procedures include but are not limited to, the following: mechanical ventilation (BIPAP), oxygen therapy, limited patient assessments, chest physiotherapy, coughing and breathing exercises, aerosol therapy, CPR, administration of aerosolized medications and therapeutic gases. The RCP I moderately exercise independent judgement, make Respiratory Care decisions and takes action based on the knowledge of hospital and departmental policies and procedures. Supervises the patient care of Respiratory Care Students. Reports directly to the Team Leader or Supervisor of Respiratory Care.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent and/or required work experience.
Experience: Clinical experience in Respiratory Therapy combined with a background in physiology and pharmacology. One year of NICU and NRP required.
Training: None Required.
License/Certification: Licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner by State of California or Application Work Permit Respiratory Care Practitioner Applicant issued by the State of California, Respiratory Examining Committee. (Applicant may work pending passage of the RCP examination. Work permit is valid for three months.) Applicant must pass RCP entry level exam and present RCP license to remain employed. Basis Life Support For Healthcare Provider (BLS) Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) (within six months of date of hire).
Knowledge/skills/abilities:Excellent oral and written communication skills. Basic knowledge of Respiratory Therapy Procedures. Ability to operate and troubleshoot basic Respiratory Therapy equipment, Organizational skills. Critical Thinking skills. Ability to operate standard office equipment (copier, fax, personal computer and printer).


Established in 1956, St. Mary Medical Center is a 186-bed acute care facility celebrating more than 50 years of healing in the High Desert. St. Mary is home to the High Desert's only full-service cardiovascular surgery program and the area's only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The Medical Center is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.