Job Summary: Under the supervision of practice management in collaboration with Lab Medical Director, the Pulmonary Function Technician (PFT) performs routine pulmonary function testing (such as spirometry, lung volumes, diffusion capacity, airway resistance, thoracic gas volume, respiratory strength, arterial puncture) and prepares pulmonary function equipment for use. The incumbent performs routine exercise studies such as 02 titration and 6-minute walk, invasive dead space measurement, resting energy expenditure, and assists with invasive procedures. Collects and evaluates clinical data, performs and evaluates quality control data and participates in educational activities, as directed.
The Pulmonary Function Technician delivers prescribed pulmonary function testing services under the direction of pulmonary function laboratory administrative and medical staff. This is a professional position with no supervisory responsibility. Incumbents under this title perform similar but not identical duties.
Job Responsibilities: - Perform pulmonary function testing (PFTs) as appropriate within scope and licensure, including spirometry, lung volumes by helium dilution, lung volumes by body plethysmography, diffusion capacity, maximum voluntary ventilation, maximum respiratory pressures, right-to-left circulatory shunt assessment by oxygen gradient, methacholine challenge testing, specific airways resistance and conductance, resting and exercise oximetry assessments, resting and exercise titration by oximetry in accordance with laboratory protocols. Instructs patients on proper use of metered dose medications and spacing devices.
- Prepare, set up, calibrate, and maintain pulmonary function testing equipment to ensure proper operation, accuracy, and cleanliness. Maintain a clean, safe, and organized testing environment.
- Perform test procedures. Prepares and instructs patients, assesses validation of test results.
- Perform arterial blood gas collection and analysis and hemoximetry quality control and proficiency testing in accordance with laboratory procedures.
- Evaluates quality control data for volume and flow measuring devices, gas analyzers and biological control data to evaluate trends suggesting degradation of equipment performance.
- Assist physicians and respiratory therapists in the interpretation of test results by providing high-quality data and reports. Collect by chart review or patient interview sufficient data to present a clear clinical picture of the patient's problem to the physician that will interpret the pulmonary function data.
- Report to supervisory personnel any significant occurrences that affect the validity of the work, performs scheduling function as needed.
- Order supplies, manage schedule including overbooking; facilitate interaction of patients with home-care companies for supplemental oxygen, CPAP, BIPAP, home ventilation, etc., per physician orders and as required.
- Educate patients, students, fellows and new technicians in all aspects of PFT, as required. Lead training of new technicians, as directed.
- Participate in staff meetings, research studies, quality assurance activities and working groups as directed. Cooperate and assist in obtaining institutional, divisional and departmental initiatives and goals.
- Performs other job-related duties as assigned
Job Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalency is required.
- Respiratory Therapist licensure by The University of the State of New York, Education Department (NYSED) required.
- Associate's Degree in Respiratory Therapy or equivalent in respiratory care as recognized by the New York State Board for Respiratory Therapy required.
- One year experience in pulmonary function testing (PFTs) required.
- Current BCLS/AED certification required.
- Candidate must demonstrate strong customer service orientation and the ability to deliver consistent exceptional service while demonstrating tact, respect and sensitivity.
- Candidate must be organized and be able to manage a demanding workload and moderately complex cases in an accurate and timely.
- Ability to mentor teammates and demonstrate professional and compassionate manners while conveying a positive image of the practice. Encourages positivity and adaptability to new and changing situations.
- Ability to work independently and follow-through and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Candidate must demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a culturally diverse staff and patient/family population demonstrating tact and sensitivity in stressful situations.
- Strong proficiency of Microsoft Office (Word & Excel) or similar software is required and an ability and willingness to learn new systems and programs.
- Must be a motivated individual with a positive mindset and exceptional work ethic.
- Bilingual English/Spanish a plus.
Hourly Rate Ranges: $36.54 - $49.27 Note: Our salary offers will fall within these ranges based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to experience, skill set, training and education.
