A Respiratory Therapist assists patients who have trouble breathing because of a chronic respiratory illness, trauma, or other conditions. Administers tests to diagnose breathing problems, performs treatments to help patients breathe easier, or sets up breathing equipment such as ventilators. Works closely with physicians and other healthcare workers, and may also assist in providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, drowning, or shock. Works in hospitals; may also provide care and counseling to patients in their homes.
Position summary The Respiratory Therapist, or RT, provides specialized respiratory care to residents in a skilled nursing setting. This role focuses on assessing respiratory needs, delivering prescribed treatments, monitoring progress, and supporting the overall health and comfort of residents. The RT works closely with physicians, nursing staff, rehabilitation staff, and other interdisciplinary team members to help improve resident outcomes, maintain quality of life, and ensure compliance with clinical and regulatory standards. Key responsibilities Resident care Assess residents with acute and chronic respiratory conditions and help develop individualized respiratory care plans Provide prescribed respiratory treatments, including oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, chest physiotherapy, suctioning as applicable, flutter valves, and incentive spirometry Monitor residents receiving respiratory therapy services and track their response to treatment Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments and communicate with physicians regarding needed updates or adjustments Perform bedside respiratory testing such as pulse oximetry, peak flow, and other ordered assessments Clinical documentation Complete accurate, timely, and compliant documentation in the electronic health record Document daily skilled respiratory progress notes and update care plans as needed Participate in triple check processes, including support with diagnosis coding and skilled service justification Interdisciplinary collaboration Participate in care plan meetings, quality assurance activities, and interdisciplinary team meetings Educate staff, residents, and family members on respiratory treatments, equipment use, and disease management Collaborate with physicians and nurse practitioners on respiratory evaluations and recertifications Complete initial and annual competencies with nursing staff to support safe, high quality care Equipment and safety Ensure respiratory equipment is used properly and maintained in good working order Monitor supply levels and coordinate with central supply or outside vendors to maintain needed equipment and materials Follow all infection control practices and safety standards related to respiratory care Qualifications Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Therapy program Current Respiratory Therapist license in the state of practice Current BLS or CPR certification required ACLS preferred At least one year of healthcare experience required Long term care or skilled nursing facility experience preferred Knowledge of CMS regulations and skilled nursing documentation standards strongly preferred Core competencies Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills Ability to educate staff and residents in a clear, supportive, and approachable way Excellent documentation, organization, and time management skills Commitment to person centered care and strong interdisciplinary teamwork Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or on call shifts as needed
