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.
Wellstar Health System is seeking a Registered Respiratory Therapist III to deliver advanced, evidence-based respiratory care within our Healthcare & Medical Services department. In this senior clinical role, you will manage complex respiratory cases, including ventilator management, oxygen therapy, and diagnostic procedures in acute and critical care settings. You will serve as a clinical resource, precept and mentor junior therapists, and collaborate closely with nurses, physicians, and the interdisciplinary team to optimize patient outcomes. Wellstar's supportive, inclusive culture emphasizes employee well-being, patient-centered care, flexible scheduling, and robust professional development opportunities. Responsibilities Provide advanced respiratory assessments, treatment, and monitoring for acute and critical care patients. Manage ventilators and complex oxygen delivery systems, adjusting therapy based on clinical status and protocols. Perform and interpret respiratory diagnostics, including arterial blood gases and pulmonary function-related tests. Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams to develop and modify respiratory care plans. Serve as a clinical resource and mentor for junior respiratory therapists and students. Precept new team members, supporting orientation, skill development, and competency validation. Contribute to respiratory care protocols, quality improvement initiatives, and patient-safety efforts. Document all assessments, treatments, and patient responses in the electronic medical record accurately and timely. Educate patients and families on respiratory conditions, therapies, and equipment use. Support flexible coverage across units, responding to respiratory emergencies and rapid response situations. Required Skills Advanced ventilator management Arterial blood gas sampling and interpretation Non-invasive ventilation (Bi
PAP/CPAP
) Airway management and oxygen delivery systems Respiratory diagnostics and monitoring Critical care respiratory protocols Electronic medical record documentation Patient and family respiratory education Precepting and staff mentorship Emergency and rapid response support
