Respiratory Therapist - Casual Position at WVU Medicine

Role Overview

The Respiratory Therapist - Casual position at WVU Medicine's Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) and Bluefield Regional Center offers an exciting opportunity for qualified professionals to provide essential respiratory care to patients of all ages. This role involves evaluating patients' respiratory status, administering prescribed therapies, and monitoring their response to treatment. As a casual employee, you'll have the flexibility to work on an as-needed basis, providing support to the respiratory therapy team and ensuring patients receive the highest quality care.

A Day in the Life of a Respiratory Therapist

Each day as a Respiratory Therapist at WVU Medicine is dynamic and rewarding. Your responsibilities may include: * **Patient Assessment:** Evaluating patients' respiratory conditions through physical examinations, reviewing medical history, and analyzing diagnostic tests like arterial blood gases and pulmonary function tests. * **Treatment Administration:** Administering various respiratory therapies, including oxygen therapy, aerosolized medications, chest physiotherapy, and mechanical ventilation. * **Equipment Management:** Setting up, operating, and maintaining respiratory equipment such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and nebulizers. * **Monitoring and Adjustments:** Closely monitoring patients' responses to treatment and making necessary adjustments to therapy based on their condition and physician orders. * **Emergency Response:** Responding to respiratory emergencies, such as code blues and rapid response calls, and providing immediate respiratory support. * **Patient Education:** Educating patients and their families about respiratory conditions, treatment plans, and proper use of respiratory equipment. * **Documentation:** Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records in the electronic health record system. * **Collaboration:** Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement comprehensive patient care plans.

Why Princeton and Bluefield, West Virginia?

Princeton and Bluefield, located in southern West Virginia, offer a unique blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreation. The area boasts: * **Affordable Living:** Lower cost of living compared to many metropolitan areas. * **Natural Beauty:** Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. * **Community Spirit:** A close-knit community with friendly neighbors and a welcoming atmosphere. * **Proximity to Larger Cities:** Easy access to larger cities like Charleston, West Virginia, and Roanoke, Virginia, for additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Career Path

WVU Medicine is committed to employee growth and development. The Respiratory Therapist - Casual position can serve as a stepping stone to other career opportunities within the organization, such as: * **Full-Time Respiratory Therapist:** Transition to a full-time role with regular hours and benefits. * **Senior Respiratory Therapist:** Advance to a senior-level position with increased responsibilities and leadership opportunities. * **Respiratory Therapy Supervisor:** Oversee and manage a team of respiratory therapists. * **Specialized Respiratory Therapist:** Pursue specialized training and certification in areas such as neonatal respiratory care, critical care, or pulmonary rehabilitation.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for the Respiratory Therapist - Casual position at WVU Medicine typically ranges from $55,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. WVU Medicine also offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including: * Health insurance * Dental insurance * Vision insurance * Paid time off * Retirement savings plan * Life insurance * Disability coverage * Tuition reimbursement

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We value teamwork, collaboration, and patient-centered care. Our employees are passionate about providing the highest quality healthcare to the communities we serve.

How to Apply

To apply for the Respiratory Therapist - Casual position at WVU Medicine, please visit our careers website and submit your application online. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications or licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**1. What are the required qualifications for this position?** The minimum qualifications include licensure as a respiratory therapist in West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, or Pennsylvania (depending on location) and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire. One year of respiratory therapist experience is also required. **2. Is prior experience required for this position?** Yes, one year of respiratory therapist experience is required. Two years of experience is preferred. **3. What are the essential duties and responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist?** The core duties and responsibilities include performing basic and advanced therapeutic procedures for neonatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients, assembling and maintaining respiratory equipment, and monitoring patients' responses to therapy. **4. What is the work schedule for a casual employee?** As a casual employee, your work schedule will vary based on the needs of the department. You may be asked to work weekdays, weekends, or holidays. **5. What opportunities are there for career advancement at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine offers various opportunities for career advancement, including transitioning to a full-time role, advancing to a senior-level position, or pursuing specialized training and certification. **6. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer to its employees?** WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plan, life insurance, disability coverage, and tuition reimbursement. **7. What is the company culture like at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that values teamwork, collaboration, and patient-centered care. **8. How do I apply for this position?** To apply, please visit our careers website and submit your application online. **9. Is relocation assistance available for this position?** Please contact the HR department to confirm if relocation assistance is available. **10. Who can I contact if I have additional questions about this position?** You can contact the WVU Medicine HR department for any additional questions.