Respiratory Therapist Job Description Template [2024]

A Respiratory Therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with respiratory disorders.

Use this Respiratory Therapist job description template to promote your job openings and attract qualified candidates. Customize the job brief, responsibilities, requirements, and skills according to your specific needs.

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Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Respiratory Therapist to join our healthcare team. Respiratory Therapists are responsible for evaluating patients’ respiratory status, designing and administering therapy plans, and monitoring patient progress. The ideal candidate will be responsible for assessing patients’ respiratory conditions, developing and implementing effective treatment plans, and providing ongoing care and support to improve patient respiratory health.

Responsibilities

  • Restore pulmonary function and support life by administering prescribed respiratory therapy.
  • Conduct pulmonary function tests and develop treatment plans in consultation with physicians.
  • Administer inhalants, operate mechanical ventilators, and manage therapeutic gas administration.
  • Perform bronchopulmonary drainage, breathing exercises, and monitor physiological responses.
  • Direct treatments by aides, technicians, and assistants, and evaluate patient progress.
  • Complete discharge planning, including designing home exercise programs and instructing caregivers.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality and ensure a safe therapy environment.
  • Develop staff through training programs and ensure compliance with legal and certification requirements.
  • Perform diagnostic testing, maintain equipment, and provide emergency care as needed.
  • Educate patients on medication use and respiratory equipment, and monitor their progress.

Requirements and Skills

  • Completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program or technical course.
  • Certification by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and a current RCP license.
  • Experience in respiratory care, emergency care, and intensive care.
  • Valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
  • BLS and/or CPR certification from a recognized organization.
  • Strong knowledge of pulmonary function and respiratory rehabilitation.
  • Proven experience with respiratory equipment and diagnostic testing.
  • Ability to work independently and under high-pressure situations.
  • Excellent communication skills and a compassionate approach to patient care.
  • Commitment to continuous professional development and adherence to care standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Respiratory Therapist do?

A Respiratory Therapist assesses patients’ respiratory conditions, develops and administers treatment plans, and provides ongoing care and education to improve respiratory health.

What should you look for in a Respiratory Therapist resume?

When reviewing a Respiratory Therapist resume, consider:

  • Education and Certification: Ensure the candidate has completed an accredited respiratory therapy program and holds necessary certifications, such as from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and a current RCP license.
  • Relevant Experience: Look for experience in respiratory care, including pulmonary function testing, administering therapy, and emergency care.
  • Technical Skills: Verify proficiency with respiratory equipment and diagnostic tools, including mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration, and non-invasive therapies.
  • Clinical Skills: Assess their ability to develop and implement treatment plans, monitor patient progress, and make necessary adjustments.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure familiarity with federal, state, and local regulations, and adherence to infection-control policies.
  • Patient Care: Evaluate experience in providing patient education, emotional support, and home exercise programs, as well as documenting patient care accurately.

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