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.
Mercy is seeking a skilled Respiratory Therapist to join our Healthcare & Medical Services team. In this role, you will assess, treat, and care for patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders, performing diagnostic tests, administering therapies, and collaborating closely with physicians and nurses. Mercy offers a compassionate, diverse, and collaborative culture where innovation in patient care thrives. You'll work with dynamic teams, access continuous learning, and contribute directly to lifesaving care and improved patient outcomes across our Midwest facilities. Responsibilities Perform comprehensive respiratory assessments and contribute to individualized care plans for patients with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary conditions. Administer oxygen therapy, aerosolized medications, and bronchial hygiene therapies in accordance with physician orders and clinical protocols. Set up, initiate, monitor, and adjust non-invasive and invasive ventilator support, documenting patient responses and collaborating with physicians on ventilator weaning strategies. Obtain and analyze arterial blood gases, interpret results, and communicate findings to the care team to guide treatment decisions. Conduct diagnostic procedures such as bedside spirometry and pulmonary function testing as ordered, ensuring accurate technique and reporting. Assist with emergency airway management, rapid response calls, and code situations, providing respiratory support consistent with approved procedures and training. Maintain accurate, timely documentation of all respiratory assessments, treatments, and patient education in the electronic medical record. Educate patients and families on respiratory conditions, equipment use (such as inhalers, spacers, and home oxygen), and strategies to optimize pulmonary health. Ensure proper cleaning, calibration, and troubleshooting of respiratory therapy equipment, and adhere strictly to infection prevention and control practices. Collaborate with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care, participate in interdisciplinary rounds, and support quality and safety initiatives within the department. Engage in ongoing professional development, in-service training, and competency validation to maintain current knowledge of respiratory care best practices and emerging technologies. Required Skills Patient assessment and monitoring Administration of oxygen therapy Ventilator setup and management Arterial blood gas sampling and analysis Pulmonary function testing Nebulizer and aerosol therapy Non-invasive ventilation (Bi
PAP/CPAP
) Emergency airway management support CPR and basic life support (BLS) Electronic medical record (EMR) documentation Infection control and isolation protocols Interdisciplinary care coordination Patient and family education Equipment troubleshooting and maintenance Adherence to clinical protocols and regulations
