Respiratory Therapist (casual)

Respiratory Therapist

Under the direction of the Director - Respiratory Care Services and Supervisor - Respiratory Care Services, the Registered Respiratory Therapist administers respiratory therapy care and life support to patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system, under the supervision of a physician and by prescription.

Responsibilities:

• Assess patients and review medical histories, physician orders, and clinical data to develop and administer appropriate respiratory therapy treatments.
• Set up, operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain respiratory care equipment, including mechanical ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, aerosol therapy devices, and therapeutic gas equipment.
• Monitor patient responses to therapy, perform arterial blood gas collection and analysis, conduct pulse oximetry and EKG studies, and adjust treatments in collaboration with physicians.
• Perform respiratory procedures including bronchopulmonary drainage, airway clearance therapies, breathing exercises, bronchoscopy support, tracheostomy assistance, and obstetric respiratory support.
• Respond to emergency situations including Rapid Response, Code Blue, trauma activations, and other critical care events.
• Maintain accurate patient documentation, monitor inventory and supplies, and ensure compliance with infection prevention and equipment safety standards.
• Educate patients, families, trainees, and healthcare team members on respiratory care procedures and treatment plans.
• Provide respiratory care to patients across all age groups while demonstrating age-specific clinical competencies and compassionate patient care.
• Assist with departmental operations by coordinating workflow, supporting staffing needs, communicating quality or patient care concerns, and serving in a lead role when assigned.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Associate degree from accredited Respiratory Therapy training program.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist from the National Board of Respiratory Care.
• Current license as a Respiratory Therapist from the State of Ohio.
• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently as part of the care delivery team.
• BLS for Healthcare Provider (HCP) within 30 days of hire.
• Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician (CRTT) OR Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran