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.
Rutland Regional Medical Center, the largest community hospital in Vermont, is seeking a Respiratory Care Practitioner to join our Healthcare & Medical Services team. In this role, you will deliver high-quality respiratory care, including assessments, treatments, and patient education across acute and critical care settings. You will collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to optimize patient outcomes. RRMC offers a community-focused culture emphasizing patient safety, teamwork, and professional growth, with access to advanced technology, ongoing training, and opportunities for career advancement. Responsibilities Assess, plan, and deliver respiratory care treatments to patients across inpatient and outpatient settings Administer oxygen therapy, aerosolized medications, and airway clearance techniques according to provider orders and protocols Set up, manage, and troubleshoot invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation Perform and assist with diagnostic procedures such as arterial blood gas sampling and pulmonary function testing as permitted by policy Continuously monitor and evaluate patients' respiratory status, adjusting therapy based on clinical response and provider direction Respond to respiratory emergencies, including codes and rapid response calls, providing airway management and support Educate patients and families on respiratory conditions, therapies, and home equipment use to support safe discharge and self-management Document all assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately and timely in the electronic medical record Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement patient-centered care plans Participate in quality improvement, safety initiatives, and ongoing competency and professional development activities Required Skills Respiratory assessment and treatment planning Mechanical ventilator setup and management Non-invasive ventilation (Bi
PAP/CPAP
) Oxygen therapy and aerosol medication delivery Airway clearance techniques and suctioning Arterial blood gas sampling and interpretation basics Pulmonary function testing (PFT) basics Emergency airway management support Use of respiratory equipment and monitoring devices Electronic medical record documentation Infection prevention and patient safety practices Patient and family respiratory education Interdisciplinary collaboration and communication Critical thinking in acute and critical care settings
