Registered Respiratory Therapist (Pulmonary)

Full Job Description

The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) (Pulmonary) is certified in Pulmonary Function Testing and performs specialized assignments.

They are expected to compare and evaluate indications and contraindications for complex pulmonary function testing and recognize normal/abnormal results.

They perform bronchoprovocation testing utilizing a variety of medications or methodologies.

The RRT (Pulmonary) conducts quality control reviews of all tests performed and all pulmonary diagnostic equipment.

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: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency.

RTs/RRTs appointed to direct patient-care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f). 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.

May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria).

Grade Determinations: Registered Respiratory Therapist (Pulmonary), GS-12 Experience, Licensure and Credential.

Candidates must have: One year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level.

Hold an active license and RRT credential Certification. Incumbent most hold a Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT).

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities.

In addition to the requirements above, candidates must demonstrate all of the following KSAs: Knowledge of complex pulmonary function testing to include but not limited to cardiopulmonary stress testing, exercise testing, metabolic testing, bronchoprovocation testing and shunt testing.

Ability to establish a quality control program related to pulmonary function lab. Skill in analyzing physiologic specimen and information from basic diagnostic procedures.

Skill in assessing for signs and symptoms of adverse actions to medications and or testing procedures.

Skill in determining appropriate intervention for adverse actions to medications and or testing procedures. Ability to provide training in advanced pulmonary function procedures.

Ability to provide clinical consultation in advanced pulmonary function procedures Preferred Experience: 1 year of outpatient clinical experience, 1 year PFT experience, strong communication and interdisciplinary skills.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12.

Physical Requirements: Physical aspects associated with work required of this assignment are typical for the occupation, see Duties section for essential job duties of the position.

May require standing, lifting, carrying, sitting, stooping, bending, puling, and pushing.

May be required to wear personal protective equipment and undergo annual TB screening or testing as conditions of employment.

Work Environment: Work is performed in an office/clinic setting with minimal risks that requires normal safety precautions; the area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated.

However, the work environment requires someone with the ability to handle several tasks at once in sometimes stressful situations.

For positions requiring examinations, information is gleaned from the OF 178, as submitted with the recruitment packet. Major Duties:

Major duties for the position include (but are not limited to): Monitoring patients for signs, symptoms, reactions, general behavior and general physical response to respiratory care and diagnostic interventions.

Performing bronchoprovocation testing utilizing a variety of medications or methodologies; Monitoring patients and recognize and initiate interventions for complications of testing; Implementing respiratory therapy procedures, medical technology, and diagnostic procedures necessary for disease prevention, treatment management, and pulmonary rehabilitation; Performing an initial quality review of test results and ready them for physician interpretation and determine whether the patient meets the criteria for termination of testing; Utilizing protocols, guidelines, pathways, and policies driven by evidence-based medicine, expert opinion, and standards of practice; Participating in research to evaluate interventions and technology to determine their ability to improve patient outcomes.

Facilitating and directing patient rehabilitation programs and the development of disease and care management plans.

Educating patients and families during activities to promote knowledge and understanding of the disease process, medical therapy and resources available to assist in the care of the patient.

Facilitating health care student learning. Training and assessing staff competencies in performing simple spirometry.

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday 7:30am to 4:00pm, subject to change based on Agency needs Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 629-01152-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized