Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) assigned to the Sleep Disorder Center at the Loma Linda VA Medical Center are responsible for performing diagnostic polysomnography studies, split night studies, CPAP/Bi-Level ventilation/oxygen titration studies, multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT), and the maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT). The RRT is responsible in assisting the Sleep supervisor, Medical Director and Chief of Pulmonary to assure Quality Improvement in the Sleep Disorders Center. 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. Exception. RT positions will be designated only to individuals who are in the process of obtaining credentials to become an RRT. These individuals will only be hired on a temporary appointment as provided below. VHA may waive the RRT credential requirement for persons who are otherwise qualified and pending completion of prerequisites for RRT credential. Individuals who have successfully completed a respiratory care program accredited by the CoARC or its successor, acquired the CRT credential, are fully licensed by their state and are working toward completion of their RRT credential may be given a temporary appointment as an RT. The temporary appointment is made under the authority of 38 U.S.C. § 7401(a)(1)(B) for a period not to exceed one year from date of employment. Candidates must hold an active, current, full and unrestricted RRT credential and be licensed to hold a position at or above the GS-07 level. RTs may only be temporarily appointed at the GS-05 level and may not be promoted/converted to a higher level position as an RRT until the RRT credential is received. RTs must provide care only under the close supervision of an RRT. Temporary RT appointments may not be extended beyond one year or converted to a new temporary appointment. Failure to Obtain Credential. In all cases, RTs must actively pursue meeting national prerequisites for the RRT credential from the first day of their appointment. Failure to become credentialed within one year from date of appointment will result in removal from the GS-0601 RT series and may result in termination of employment. The Human Resources (HR) Office staff will provide RTs, in writing, the requirement to 1) obtain their RRT credential; 2) the date by which the RRT credential must be acquired; and 3) the consequences for not becoming RRT credentialed by the deadline. The HR Office staff must provide the written notice to selectees prior to entrance on duty date and maintain a copy in the electronic Official Personnel Folder. 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:GS-11 Experience, Licensure and Credential. One year of creditable experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level demonstrating the clinical competencies described at that level. Hold an active license and RRT credential. Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the requirements above, 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. Preferred Experience: Experience working in a Sleep Lab as a Polysomnographer. RPSGT or SDS credentials are not required but highly preferred. References: VA Handbook 5005/141, Part II, Appendix G11, Registered Respiratory Therapist Qualification Standards. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. Physical Requirements: Heavy Lifting (45 lbs. and over); Moderate Carrying (15-44 lbs); Pushing; Straight pulling; Pulling hand over hand; Reaching above shoulder; Use of fingers; Both hands required; Walking (up to 6 hours); Standing (up to 6 hours); Kneeling (Intermittent); Repeated bending (up to 6 hours); Both legs required; Ability for rapid mental and muscular coordination simultaneously; Near vision correctable at 13" to 16"; Far vision correctable in one eye to 20/20 an to 20/40 in the other; Ability to distinguish shades of colors; Hearing (aid permitted); Emotional and Mental Stability. ["Duties at the full performance level include, but are not limited to: Performs diagnostic polysomnography studies, split night studies, CPAP/Bi-Level ventilation/oxygen titration studies, multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT), and the maintenance of wakefulness test (MWT) Initiates patient hookup, polysomnography, equipment/computer setup and interface, troubleshooting, analysis, the application of therapeutic modalities, and scoring of polysomnography studies Collects data from the patient and/or significant other by interview, examination, and review of records. Documents results and patient responses to therapy and tests; along with relevant patient information on appropriate forms according to department policy and procedure. Communicates with other health care team members in appropriate manner (i.e. orally, writing, or electronically) any significant changes or observations. Identifies patient problems in collaboration with other health care team members and makes appropriate recommendations for patient care. Plans appropriate teaching/learning activities with patient and staff. Utilizes established policies and procedures regarding prescribed medication, treatments, equipment use, and patient care. Follows established policies and procedures related to application of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Implements physician's orders within the scope of Respiratory Care and Sleep Disorder Center policy and procedure. Documents patient compliance and response to therapy and other pertinent data on appropriate forms according to department policy. Completes non-clinical assignments as specified by appropriate authority. Demonstrates the ability to work effectively with patients, families, or significant others and with professional supportive personnel who provide patient care. Demonstrates the ability to provide effective Respiratory Care to patients in assigned work areas, as well as accepting additional patient responsibilities during their scheduled tour of duty. Adapts to shifting patient care needs including escalation of care and acceptance of additional patient responsibilities as needed. Initiates appropriate and effective emergency patient care according to policies of assigned work area (ACC/ In-hospital). Demonstrates ability to modify Respiratory Therapy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. Is responsible for proper function and accuracy of all equipment used. Coordinates respiratory care and works effectively as a member of the health care team. Initiates, maintains, and manages PAP therapy utilizing a variety of PAP therapy devices with appropriate mask interface. Elicits information utilizing equipment downloads, observing patient behavior, patient examination, chart review, interviewing the patient and family as well as collaborating with other health care team members. Evaluates and correctly documents pertinent compliance and effectiveness of therapy along with appropriate follow up for patient progress according to department policy and procedure. Facilitates continuity of care by reporting pertinent information in appropriate charting forms. Initiates and participates in patient care planning with physician in collaboration with other health care team members. Collaborates with the patient and significant others to identify educational needs and to assess learning readiness of patient. Participates in teaching and orientation of Respiratory Therapists, Respiratory Care students and other health care personnel. Maintains facility and organizational competencies and education are current utilizing the Talent Management System (TMS) Research Participates in studies and clinical research within the area of Respiratory Care and Sleep Medicine. Identifies topics or problems in Respiratory Care and Sleep Medicine conducive to research. Participates in program development contributing to policy and procedure change. Applies current concepts and findings from research and/or studies to practice in compliance with department policy and procedure. Develops and conducts research studies leading to the improvement of Respiratory Care and Sleep Medicine or the advancement of the Respiratory Care profession. Work Schedule: TBD Telework: Not Available. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Title/Functional Statement #: Registered Respiratory Therapist / 000000. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required."]

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