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Respiratory Therapist
Career Insights for Respiratory Therapist
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Scorecard
Based on Oregon data
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What they do
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.
$84,409 / year median in Oregon
+13% projected growth
Job Description
SIGN ON AND RELOCATION BONUSES AVAILABLE!
! The Respiratory Therapist (RT) is responsible for providing physician-ordered respiratory treatments and pulmonary care to residents in the Skilled Nursing Facility. The RT assesses respiratory status, administers respiratory therapies, monitors treatment effectiveness, educates residents and staff, and collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to promote optimal respiratory function and resident outcomes. Essential Job Duties Administer physician-ordered respiratory treatments including: Nebulizer treatments Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) treatments with spacers Oxygen therapy Humidification therapy Incentive spirometry Chest physiotherapy and airway clearance techniques as ordered Assess residents before and after treatments, documenting response and effectiveness. Monitor oxygen saturation levels using pulse oximetry. Evaluate residents for changes in respiratory condition and promptly notify nursing staff and providers of significant findings. Assist nursing staff with respiratory assessments and recommendations regarding treatment effectiveness. Maintain oxygen equipment, nebulizers, concentrators, compressors, and related respiratory equipment. Ensure safe oxygen storage, handling, and usage in accordance with facility policies and fire safety regulations. Perform tracheostomy care and suctioning within scope of practice when ordered. Monitor residents using CPAP and BiPAP devices and report concerns to the provider. Educate residents and families regarding respiratory medications, breathing techniques, oxygen safety, and equipment use. Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, rehabilitation, and interdisciplinary team members to develop resident-centered care plans. Participate in care conferences when respiratory services are discussed. Complete accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record. Follow infection prevention protocols, including proper PPE usage and equipment disinfection. Participate in quality improvement initiatives and regulatory compliance activities. Respond appropriately to respiratory emergencies. QualificationsEducation Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Therapy program. Licensure Current Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license in the State of Oregon. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. ACLS preferred but not required. Experience One year of respiratory therapy experience preferred. Skilled Nursing Facility, rehabilitation, or long-term care experience preferred. Experience working with geriatric and medically complex residents preferred. Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of respiratory diseases commonly seen in post-acute and long-term care. Strong assessment and clinical judgment skills. Knowledge of oxygen delivery systems and respiratory treatment equipment. Ability to recognize respiratory distress and initiate appropriate interventions. Strong communication and documentation skills. Ability to work independently while collaborating with nursing and rehabilitation staff. Knowledge of Medicare documentation standards and long-term care regulations.Pay:
$40.00 - $52.50 per hourBenefits:
401(k) matching Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time offWork Location:
In personBenefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) Plans
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance