Allied - 19346037

Tide Group • Ada, OK

7d

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 ventilators, oxygen therapy, and other devices to assist patients with breathing difficulties.

The role includes assessing patients with breathing difficulties or cardiopulmonary issues by reviewing medical histories, conducting physical exams, and interpreting diagnostic tests. Respiratory Therapists administer breathing treatments, manage respiratory equipment, respond to emergencies, educate patients and families, collaborate with healthcare professionals, document patient care, and support pulmonary rehabilitation.

Respiratory Therapists generally need an associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program. States require therapists to be licensed or certified to practice. Certification is typically obtained by passing an examination offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), such as the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. State-specific licensing requirements apply, and some states offer specialized credentials, including for neonatal or pediatric respiratory care.

Requirements

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program.
• State licensure or certification to practice; requirements include passing NBRC exams and meeting state-specific requirements.
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Specialized credentials for specific areas of respiratory therapy practice, such as neonatal or pediatric respiratory care.

Responsibilities

• Assess patients with breathing difficulties or cardiopulmonary issues by reviewing medical histories, conducting physical exams, and interpreting diagnostic tests such as blood gases, chest X-rays, and pulmonary function tests.
• Administer respiratory treatments, including oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, chest physiotherapy, and inhalation therapy such as nebulizer treatments.
• Set up, monitor, and ensure the proper function and maintenance of ventilators, oxygen tanks, CPAP machines, and other respiratory devices.
• Respond to emergencies such as respiratory failure, asthma attacks, or trauma by providing immediate life-saving interventions.
• Educate patients and families about managing chronic respiratory conditions, using respiratory devices, and taking medications properly.
• Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
• Maintain accurate records of patient assessments, treatments, and progress, including changes in respiratory condition or treatment plans.
• Assist patients in pulmonary rehabilitation programs to improve respiratory function, increase exercise tolerance, and reduce symptoms.

What This Job Offers

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