Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist Position

Location: South Bend, IN Job Type: Full-time Multiple openings per shift: 1st, 2nd, or 3rd

Job Summary: This will be a full-time, direct placement position. Respiratory Therapists are highly trained healthcare professionals who specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with respiratory disorders. As a Respiratory Therapist, you will be responsible for providing critical respiratory care to patients across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care environments. Your expertise in managing ventilators, administering respiratory therapies, and performing diagnostic tests will be crucial in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions and those experiencing acute respiratory distress, such as those affected by COVID-19. You will also play a key role in educating patients and their families on managing respiratory health, ensuring they receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Patient Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments of patients' respiratory status, including reviewing medical history, performing physical examinations, and interpreting diagnostic test results.

Ventilator and Equipment Management: Expertly operate, adjust, and monitor ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, and other respiratory equipment to ensure optimal patient care, especially in critical care settings such as ICUs.

Diagnostic Testing: Perform and analyze diagnostic tests, such as arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, lung function tests (spirometry), and pulse oximetry, to assess respiratory function and guide treatment decisions.

Respiratory Care Planning: Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized respiratory care plans based on patient assessments, medical orders, and established protocols, ensuring the delivery of appropriate and effective treatments.

Therapeutic Interventions: Administer respiratory therapies, including aerosolized medications, chest physiotherapy, and bronchial hygiene techniques, to improve patient breathing and lung function.

Emergency Response: Respond promptly to respiratory emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or acute respiratory failure, providing advanced life support and initiating life-saving interventions.

Patient and Family Education: Educate patients and their families on respiratory health management, including the proper use of inhalers, oxygen therapy, and techniques for improving lung health. Guide lifestyle modifications to enhance respiratory wellness.

Collaboration: Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive care, participate in interdisciplinary rounds, and contribute to treatment planning.

Documentation: Accurately document all aspects of respiratory care, including assessments, interventions, patient responses, and equipment settings, in the electronic health record (EHR) system.

Quality and Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols, infection control procedures, and regulatory standards to maintain a safe and high-quality care environment.

Licensure: Must hold an active and unencumbered Respiratory Therapist license in the state of Indiana.

Education: An Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program is required; a Bachelor's degree is preferred.

Certification: Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is required. Advanced certifications such as Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) are highly desirable.

Experience: Previous experience in respiratory care is preferred; experience in critical care settings such as ICUs or emergency departments is highly advantageous.

Skills: Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting respiratory equipment, including ventilators and oxygen therapy devices. Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure and emergency situations. Compassionate and patient-focused approach to care.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the shift. Ability to lift and move patients and respiratory equipment as needed. Ability to perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and physical endurance.

Non-Discrimination Statement: AVD Workforce Connect is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.