Respiratory Therapist

Description:Position Summary

The Respiratory Therapist provides comprehensive cardiopulmonary care for patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This position is responsible for administering respiratory therapy treatments, performing diagnostic testing, coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation services, conducting sleep studies, educating patients and staff, and collaborating with physicians and interdisciplinary healthcare teams to promote optimal patient outcomes. The Respiratory Therapist ensures all services are delivered in accordance with hospital policies, evidence-based practices, and applicable regulatory standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Administer respiratory therapy treatments to patients admitted to the Medical/Surgical Unit and Emergency Department.

· Assess, monitor, and evaluate patient respiratory status and communicate significant changes to the provider.

· Perform physician-ordered aerosol therapy, oxygen therapy, breathing treatments, airway clearance therapy, and other respiratory procedures.

· Coordinate and provide Pulmonary Rehabilitation services.

· Perform and interpret Six-Minute Walk Studies according to established protocols.

· Conduct Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) including spirometry and other diagnostic pulmonary testing.

· Coordinate and perform outpatient sleep studies while ensuring accurate documentation and patient monitoring.

· Educate patients and families regarding respiratory diseases, medications, oxygen therapy, inhaler techniques, and disease management.

· Provide respiratory-related education and in-service training to hospital and clinic staff.

· Maintain respiratory equipment and ensure proper cleaning, calibration, and preventative maintenance.

· Document patient assessments, treatments, responses, and education accurately within the electronic medical record.

· Respond to respiratory emergencies and assist with airway management as needed.

· Participate in quality improvement initiatives and departmental performance improvement activities.

· Maintain current knowledge of respiratory care standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements:Required Qualifications – Education/Licensure/Certification

• Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
• Current Illinois Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License.
• Current Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential preferred; Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) considered based on experience and organizational needs.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.