Respiratory Therapist RRT

Community Health Systems•Kirksville, MO

About The Position

The Respiratory Therapist - RRT administers pharmacological, diagnostic, and therapeutic agents for respiratory care procedures in accordance with physician orders and organizational policies. The role includes assessing patients, monitoring responses, and implementing treatment plans to support respiratory care, disease prevention, and rehabilitation. The therapist documents care accurately, maintains patient safety, and collaborates with healthcare teams to provide high-quality care. The position works under the direction of the ordering physician or clinician. The listed shift is 0630–1900. The role requires a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, with ACLS and PALS certifications. NRP and STABLE neonatal certifications are required when working in the NICU Department.

Requirements

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential required.
ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification required.
PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certification required.
Proficiency in administering pharmacological, diagnostic, and therapeutic respiratory procedures.
Strong communication skills for interacting with healthcare teams, patients, and families.
Skills in patient assessment, ventilator management, and airway maintenance.
Competence using electronic medical record (EMR) systems for documentation and reporting.
Knowledge of regulatory standards, safety protocols, and infection-control measures.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to regulatory standards.

Nice To Haves

1–3 years of respiratory experience in an acute care setting is preferred.
NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation) certification required if working in the NICU Department.
STABLE neonatal certification required if working in the NICU Department.

Responsibilities

Administer advanced respiratory treatments, perform assessments, and monitor patient responses.
Orient patients to treatment modalities before procedures to support cooperation and successful completion.
Perform and document arterial blood gas (ABG) punctures and report results promptly.
Assist physicians with bedside procedures as assigned.
Perform pulmonary testing and other testing procedures as assigned.
Follow respiratory protocols and safety and regulatory standards during procedures.
Communicate with peers, healthcare staff, physicians, and leadership, including timely follow-up on patient care concerns.
Evaluate and maintain respiratory therapy equipment, ensuring it functions properly and is clean and safe.
Implement written and verbal physician orders in accordance with established respiratory care procedures.
Document respiratory treatments, assessments, and patient responses clearly and thoroughly in compliance with policies.
Use personal protective equipment and patient identification techniques in accordance with infection-control standards.
Manage ventilator settings and maintain airways to support patient comfort and safety.
Respond to emergencies with appropriate interventions and collaborate with healthcare teams to stabilize patients.
Apply age-specific considerations when providing oxygen therapy across patient populations.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance and comply with organizational policies and standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.