The Respiratory Therapist applies their skills and experience to provide exceptional respiratory care in diverse settings, including home care, skilled nursing facilities, and potentially hospitals or clinics (depending on your company's services). This role involves patient assessment, treatment planning, education, and ongoing support for patients using respiratory equipment and therapies. The Respiratory Therapist serves as a clinical resource and patient advocate, collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Patient Care:

• Conduct comprehensive respiratory assessments to evaluate patient needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Deliver and set up respiratory equipment (e.g., oxygen concentrators, ventilators, CPAP/BiPAP), providing thorough patient and family education on their use and maintenance.
• Administer prescribed respiratory treatments and medications, monitoring patient responses and making adjustments as needed.
• Perform diagnostic procedures such as pulmonary function testing and arterial blood gas analysis.
• Educate patients and families on disease management strategies for conditions like asthma, COPD, and sleep apnea, empowering them to actively participate in their care.

Equipment Management:

• Ensure equipment is properly maintained, cleaned, and functioning safely.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and arrange for repairs or replacements.

Documentation and Communication:

• Maintain accurate and timely patient records.
• Communicate effectively with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
• Participate in care coordination activities.

Professional Development:

• Stay current with the latest advancements in respiratory care.
• Pursue continuing education opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Compliance:

• Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Maintain patient confidentiality (HIPAA).
• Follow infection control protocols.

Qualification Requirements:

• Graduate of an accredited respiratory care program.
• RRT or CRT credential required.
• 3+ years of clinical experience preferred (may vary based on the specific role).
• Strong understanding of respiratory physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.
• National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Registration or Certification:
  • RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) or
  • CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist)
  
  
  
  
• Current License in the state of Branch location and in other state(s) as required based on territory served
• Valid Driver's License

Equipment Used:

• Variety of respiratory therapy equipment (ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, nebulizers, etc.)
• Diagnostic equipment (pulse oximeters, spirometers, etc.)
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Computer, printer, fax machine
• Company vehicle (if applicable)

Work Environment:

• May involve working in various settings, including patients' homes, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, and clinics.
• Exposure to infectious diseases.
• May require travel.
• May require on-call responsibilities.

Disclaimer:

This description is intended to describe the essential job functions and the essential requirements for the performance of this job. It is not a complete list of all duties, responsibilities and requirements of a person so classified. Other functions may be assigned, and management retains the right to add or change the duties at any time.