Respiratory-Focused Registered Nurse (RN) / Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking compassionate and clinically skilled Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to join our respiratory care team. Working alongside Respiratory Therapists (RTs), the RN/LPN will provide specialized nursing care to ventilator-dependent, tracheostomy, and complex pulmonary patients in skilled nursing facilities and other post-acute care settings.

This role serves as a key member of the respiratory care team, helping ensure safe, high-quality clinical care while supporting respiratory treatment plans, patient monitoring, documentation, and emergency response. Primary ResponsibilitiesRespiratory and Pulmonary Care

·         Provide direct nursing care to ventilator-dependent and tracheostomy patients.

·         Monitor respiratory status, oxygen therapy, pulse oximetry, and patient tolerance to respiratory interventions.

·         Assist with tracheostomy care, suctioning, airway management, and secretion clearance.

·         Support ventilator patients by monitoring alarms, tubing, humidification systems, and patient comfort.

·         Collaborate with Respiratory Therapists to implement physician-ordered respiratory treatment plans.

·         Identify and promptly report changes in respiratory status, including signs of respiratory distress or ventilator intolerance.

·         Assist during respiratory emergencies, including accidental decannulations, airway obstructions, and rapid patient deterioration.

Nursing Care

·         Perform nursing assessments and ongoing patient monitoring.

·         Administer medications, including respiratory medications, as ordered.

·         Monitor and document vital signs, respiratory assessments, intake/output, and clinical observations.

·         Provide patient and family education regarding respiratory conditions, treatments, and equipment.

·         Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with facility and regulatory requirements.

·         Coordinate care with physicians, respiratory therapists, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members.

Equipment and Supply Management

·         Assist with monitoring respiratory equipment, oxygen systems, and durable medical equipment (DME).

·         Ensure respiratory supplies are adequately stocked and available for patient care.

·         Maintain ventilator logs, oxygen equipment records, and equipment maintenance documentation as assigned.

·         Report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns immediately.

Quality and Compliance

·         Adhere to all infection control, OSHA, HIPAA, and facility policies.

·         Maintain competency in respiratory and ventilator care procedures.

·         Participate in quality improvement initiatives and respiratory education programs.

·         Support survey readiness and compliance with state and federal regulations.

Qualifications

For RN Candidates

·         Current and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of employment.

For LPN Candidates

·         Current and unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in the state of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

·         Experience in skilled nursing, long-term care, subacute rehabilitation, pulmonary care, or critical care settings.

·         Experience caring for ventilator-dependent and tracheostomy patients preferred.

·         Knowledge of oxygen therapy, pulse oximetry, airway management, and respiratory disease processes.

·         Strong clinical assessment and communication skills.

·         Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary team.

Knowledge and Skills

·         Understanding of pulmonary disease management, including COPD, respiratory failure, pneumonia, and neuromuscular respiratory disorders.

·         Familiarity with ventilators, oxygen delivery devices, nebulizer therapy, and airway clearance techniques.

·         Strong documentation and organizational skills.

·         Ability to remain calm and effective during emergency situations.

·         Commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the workday.

Ability to lift and transfer up to 50 pounds with assistance when appropriate.

Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations.

Visual and auditory ability sufficient to monitor patients and equipment safely.

Exposure Risks

May be exposed to blood, bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and other hazards common to healthcare environments. Must consistently follow standard precautions, infection control protocols, and OSHA guidelines.

Work Schedule

Schedules may include days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and per diem assignments based on patient and facility needs.