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 implement physician-ordered respiratory care plans for diverse patient populations. Set up, manage, and monitor invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation in accordance with established protocols and patient needs. Administer aerosol therapies, nebulizer treatments, oxygen therapy, and chest physiotherapy while monitoring and documenting patient responses. Obtain and analyze arterial blood gases, interpret results, and communicate findings promptly to the care team. Assist with airway management, including suctioning and support during intubation and extubation, and respond to respiratory-related emergencies, rapid responses, and Code Blues. Document all assessments, treatments, and patient responses accurately and timely in the electronic medical record, following Mercy and regulatory standards. Educate patients and families on respiratory conditions, treatment plans, medications, and use of respiratory equipment to support safe discharge and self-management. Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals to adjust and optimize respiratory care plans. Adhere to infection control, safety, and equipment maintenance standards, ensuring respiratory devices are clean, functional, and properly stored. Adapt to variable schedules and different clinical units as part of a GIG/Flex/Per Diem/PRN staffing model, providing reliable coverage based on departmental needs. Required Skills Respiratory assessment and monitoring Ventilator setup and management Administering aerosol and nebulizer therapies Airway management (oxygen therapy, suctioning) Arterial blood gas sampling and interpretation CPR and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Non-invasive ventilation (Bi
PAP/CPAP
) Patient and family education Electronic medical record (EMR) documentation Infection control and safety protocols
