Allied - 19417440

Tide Group • Norman, OK

5d

About The Position

A Respiratory Therapist (RT) is a healthcare professional trained to diagnose, treat, and care for patients with respiratory issues. RTs work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, home care, and rehabilitation centers, using equipment including ventilators, oxygen therapy, and other devices to assist patients with breathing difficulties. They assess patients, provide respiratory treatments, manage equipment, respond to emergencies, educate patients and families, collaborate with healthcare professionals, document care, and support pulmonary rehabilitation.

Requirements

• An associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program.
• Most states require respiratory therapists to be certified. Certification typically involves passing an NBRC exam, with options such as Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
• Respiratory therapists must be licensed or certified to practice in all U.S. states; requirements vary by state and may include continuing education and renewal.
• Proficiency in using respiratory equipment and technology.
• Strong knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology related to respiratory care.
• Ability to assess patient conditions and respond effectively to changes in respiratory status.
• Compassionate communication skills to educate patients and families.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, particularly in emergency situations.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patients with breathing difficulties or cardiopulmonary issues through medical history reviews, physical exams, and interpretation of diagnostic tests such as blood gases, chest X-rays, and pulmonary function tests.
• Administer treatments to improve breathing, including oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, chest physiotherapy, and inhalation therapy such as nebulizer treatments.
• Set up and monitor ventilators, oxygen tanks, CPAP machines, and other respiratory devices, ensuring proper function and maintenance.
• Respond to emergencies such as respiratory failure, asthma attacks, or trauma, providing immediate life-saving interventions.
• Educate patients and families on managing chronic respiratory conditions, including COPD, asthma, and sleep apnea, and teach proper use of respiratory devices and medications.
• Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement care plans for patients with respiratory conditions.
• Maintain accurate records of patient assessments, treatments, and progress, documenting changes in respiratory condition or treatment plans.
• Assist patients in pulmonary rehabilitation programs aimed at improving respiratory function, increasing exercise tolerance, and reducing symptoms.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree