Allied - 19283657

Tide Group • Oregon, MO

6d

About The Position

A Respiratory Therapist (RT) is a healthcare professional specialized in diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients with respiratory issues. They work in various medical settings, including hospitals, clinics, home care, and rehabilitation centers. Respiratory Therapists are proficient in using equipment such as ventilators and oxygen therapy to assist patients experiencing breathing difficulties.

Requirements

• Proficiency in utilizing respiratory equipment and technology.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology related to respiratory care.
• Adept at assessing patient conditions and responding effectively to changes in respiratory status.
• Excellent communication skills for compassionate patient and family education.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, particularly during emergencies.
• An associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program.
• Certification through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) by passing exams such as the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.
• Licensure or certification for practice in all states, usually including passing NBRC exams and meeting state-specific requirements like continuing education and renewal processes.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients with breathing difficulties or cardiopulmonary issues by reviewing medical histories, conducting physical exams, and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., blood gases, chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests).
• Administer treatments aimed at improving breathing, such as oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, chest physiotherapy, and inhalation therapy (e.g., nebulizer treatments).
• Set up and monitor respiratory equipment like ventilators, oxygen tanks, and CPAP machines. Ensure proper functioning and maintenance of all equipment.
• Act promptly in emergency situations (e.g., respiratory failure, asthma attacks) by providing immediate life-saving interventions.
• Educate patients and their families on managing chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, asthma, and sleep apnea. Instruct on proper techniques for using respiratory devices and medications.
• Work with healthcare professionals including doctors and nurses to develop and implement comprehensive care plans for patients with respiratory conditions.
• Maintain accurate records of patient assessments, treatments, and progress, documenting any changes in the patient's respiratory condition or treatment plan.
• Assist patients in rehabilitation programs designed to improve respiratory function, enhance exercise tolerance, and alleviate symptoms.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree