Respiratory Educator (RN or RTT) - Barrie & Community Family Health Team (Barrie)

Job Description

The Respiratory Educator (RE) works as part of a comprehensive team to provide excellent care to patients with chronic lung health conditions (Asthma, COPD) and to help patients quit smoking through our smoking cessation program. Care is provided through sharing of information, treatment options and mechanisms available to help patients manage their respiratory diseases. The RE also establishes strong communication pathways between patients, family physicians, specialists and other community resources. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide care and education to adult and paediatric patients, families and care providers using behaviour management techniques 
• Conduct spirometry tests to help diagnosis and assess the severity of respiratory dysfunction 
• Apply the latest best-practice standards to improve the health of patients diagnosed with a respiratory illness 
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to enhance the care of patients 
• Conduct individual and family assessments to identify strengths, resources, psychological factors, socioeconomic impacts, educational needs and barriers to self-management 
• Develop, implement and revise customized self-management plans to meet individual needs in collaboration with the patient, their family physician, and other health care practitioners 
• Maintain accurate records of patients' therapy using electronic medical records
• Facilitate, and possibly develop, group education sessions, including pulmonary rehabilitation program
• Analyze the effectiveness of the program and help to identify any unmet needs 
• Serve as a resource to the team and community by providing information about Asthma, COPD and smoking cessation

Education, Qualifications and Skills

• Current Ontario Regulated Healthcare Professional with current registration to applicable governing body (i.e. RRT or RN with background/special interest in Asthma/COPD/Smoking cessation)
• 3 years experience in related field
• Certified Asthma, COPD or Respiratory Educator preferred
• Strong knowledge of cardiopulmonary disorders, including symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions and preventative care measures
• Aware of best practice guidelines as they relate to lung health
• Willingness and ability to teach/train patients and members of the interdisciplinary team as required
• Able to work evenings as required
• Formal smoking cessation training (such as TEACH) an asset
• Human Rights Code with respect to any exemption requests

Additional Job Requirements:

• Must adhere to all BCFHT Policies and Procedures 
• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada 
• Must be able to travel within the community 
• BCFHT offers HOOPP (Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan) for those eligible