Respiratory Therapist, Certified

Respiratory Therapist Position Summary

Delivers comprehensive respiratory care, including oxygen therapy, therapeutic modalities, mechanical ventilation management, and diagnostic testing. Monitors patient response, recognizes side effects/complications, communicates findings to the care team, and ensures safe, evidence-based practice in accordance with hospital policies and professional standards.

Essential Functions

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of oxygen delivery methods and equipment; monitor for and address potential side effects.
• Administer ordered respiratory therapy treatments; understand indications, dosing parameters, and possible adverse effects.
• Set up and monitor mechanical ventilators; perform associated critical-care duties such as airway management and tracheal suctioning.
• Assess pain that interferes with function or rehabilitation participation and notify the physician for appropriate intervention.
• Perform arterial punctures to obtain ABG samples; recognize potential complications and contraindications.
• Perform EKGs, document/report results per department procedure, route to requesting providers, and file reports appropriately.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Information

Collaborates with physicians, nursing, and rehabilitation staff to coordinate care and optimize outcomes. Ensures accurate, timely documentation in the medical record and adheres to infection prevention and patient safety practices. Maintains equipment readiness; follows department policies, competency requirements, and quality improvement activities.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Education: Graduate of an AMA-approved School of Respiratory Therapy.

Licensure: Current state Respiratory Therapist license.

Certifications: Current CPR certification (BLS required; ACLS per unit requirements or preferred).

Experience: Three (3)+ years of cardiopulmonary/respiratory care experience highly preferred.

Skills: Mechanical ventilation and airway management; oxygen/therapeutic modalities; ABG sampling and analysis; EKG acquisition and workflow; pain assessment/communication; EMR documentation; teamwork and time management.

Lifepoint Health is a leader in community-based care and driven by a mission of Making Communities Healthier. Our diversified healthcare delivery network spans 29 states and includes 63 community hospital campuses, 32 rehabilitation and behavioral health hospitals, and more than 170 additional sites of care across the healthcare continuum, such as acute rehabilitation units, outpatient centers and post-acute care facilities. We believe that success is achieved through talented people. We want to create places where employees want to work, with opportunities to pursue meaningful and satisfying careers that truly make a difference in communities across the country.