Respiratory Therapist

About the role

The Respiratory Therapist (RT) plays an integral role in the success of our team, our community and creating a place our residents are proud to call home. The primary purpose of this position is to assess, treat, and manage patients with breathing difficulties or cardiopulmonary disorders by performing diagnostic tests, administering respiratory therapies like oxygen therapy and aerosol medications, monitoring patient progress, and educating patients on managing their lung conditions; they work closely with physicians to develop treatment plans and often operate specialized medical equipment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough patient evaluations to identify respiratory issues, including taking medical history, physical examinations, and reviewing patient records.
• Collaborate with physicians to develop individualized treatment plans based on patient needs.
• Deliver various respiratory therapies such as oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, chest physiotherapy, and airway clearance techniques.
• Teach patients about their lung condition, proper medication use, breathing exercises, and self-care practices.
• Maintain and calibrate respiratory therapy equipment.
• Monitor vital signs, lung sounds, and other relevant parameters during treatment.
• Provide immediate care in emergency situations requiring airway management or resuscitation.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Skills

• Be able to make independent decisions and follow instructions.
• Deal tactfully with personnel, prospects, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel, and the public.
• Capable of working with ill, disabled, elderly, and emotionally upset people within the facility.
• Communicate effectively in a manner that is sufficient for effective communication with supervisors, team members, prospects, residents, and families.

Qualifications

• Must meet all applicable state and federal requirements for this position.
• Must possess associate's degree in respiratory therapy, Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) license, or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential for advanced practice.
• Prefer one year of experience in nursing in a home care, assisted living, or long-term care facility.

Working Conditions

Tasks assigned to this position may involve potential and/or direct exposure to blood, body fluids, infectious diseases, air contaminants, and hazardous chemicals.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged standing, walking, & bending
• Be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times
• Pushing & Pulling heavy objects like oxygen tanks
• Frequent reaching, stooping, crouching, & kneeling
• Ability to perform repetitive movements while maintaining good mobility and dexterity
• Be able to push and pull up to 50 pounds at times

Cognitive Requirements

• Executes tasks independently
• Ability to express yourself clearly and effectively
• General computer literacy

Environmental Requirements

• Ambient room temperatures and lighting