Respiratory Therapist - Wilmington Clinic

Respiratory Therapist - Wilmington Clinic

The Ambulatory Respiratory Therapist functions as an independent clinical contributor responsible for the day-to-day operations of a Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) laboratory in an outpatient setting. This role supports pulmonologists and primary care physicians by delivering high-quality, evidence-based diagnostic testing and ensuring accurate, reliable results for clinical decision-making.

The Respiratory Therapist autonomously manages patient flow, performs pulmonary function testing procedures in accordance with American Thoracic Society (ATS) standards, and is responsible for the proper operation, calibration, and quality control of all testing equipment. The role requires strong clinical judgment, operational ownership, and the ability to coordinate care across multiple providers and clinic locations.

Clinical Testing & Patient Care

• Independently performs comprehensive pulmonary function testing including:
• Spirometry (pre/post bronchodilator)
• Lung volumes (FRC, plethysmography)
• Diffusion capacity (DLCO)
• Methacholine challenge testing
• Six-minute walk testing
• Pulse oximetry at rest and with exertion
• Obtains detailed patient history, medication reconciliation, and indication for testing
• Provides clear patient instruction and coaching to ensure optimal test performance and valid results
• Evaluates patient effort and test quality; repeats testing as necessary to meet ATS acceptability and reproducibility criteria
• Monitors patients for adverse reactions during testing and initiates appropriate response when indicated

Lab Operations & Independent Practice

• Functions as the primary operator and coordinator of the PFT lab, managing daily workflow, scheduling coordination, and patient throughput
• Collaborates with ordering providers (Pulmonologists and PCPs) to clarify test indications and ensure appropriate test selection
• Reviews, validates, and uploads test results into the EMR (Cerner) in a timely manner for provider interpretation
• Supports multiple clinic locations or providers as required, ensuring standardization of testing practices across the ambulatory network
• Ensures compliance with ATS guidelines, organizational protocols, and regulatory standards

Equipment Management & Quality Assurance

• Performs calibration, quality control, and maintenance of all pulmonary testing equipment on a routine basis
• Maintains documentation of quality control logs and ensures equipment accuracy and reliability
• Troubleshoots equipment issues and coordinates vendor support as needed
• Maintains infection control standards and ensures proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment

Care Coordination & Program Support

• Assists providers with specialized pulmonary diagnostic procedures as needed
• Coordinates overnight oximetry testing and performs preliminary data review
• Serves as a subject matter expert resource for pulmonary diagnostics within the ambulatory setting
• Supports population health initiatives by identifying patients in need of pulmonary testing

Administrative & Compliance Responsibilities

• Ensures accurate and complete documentation in the EMR system
• Adheres to HIPAA privacy, safety, and infection control protocols
• Maintains regular attendance and supports clinic operational needs
• Participates in quality improvement initiatives and workflow optimization efforts
• Performs other duties as assigned in support of departmental projects and goals.

Position Requirements

A. Education

• Associates Degree required. Candidates with Respiratory Therapist Certification from a Vocational school or with at least 10 years of experience will be considered in lieu of Associates Degree.

B. Qualifications/Experience

• Current California Respiratory Care Practitioner license required.
• National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential or National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential required.
• Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) Preferred
• Requires one (1) to two (2) years of respiratory therapy experience as an respiratory therapist in an ambulatory setting.
• Proficiency with pulmonary function testing and equipment.
• Understanding of medical terminology in verbal and written form.

C. Special Skills/Knowledge

• Bilingual skills preferred (Spanish)
• Basic computer and keyboard skillsWindows programs
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)