Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist

The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) focuses on providing comprehensive cardiopulmonary care to patients across the entire lifespan, from neonates to geriatrics.

Below is a summary of the key responsibilities and qualifications:

Core Responsibilities

• Ventilator Management: Initiates, monitors, and maintains mechanical ventilation (including CPAP/BiPAP) and manages patient transport while using clinical judgment to assess the impact of setting changes.
• Respiratory Modalities: Performs assessments and interventions such as airway clearance, inhaled medication administration, tracheostomy care, intubation, and medical gas administration.
• Diagnostics: Conducts or assists with blood gas analysis, spirometry, and bronchoscopies, ensuring the reliability of test results.
• Patient Education & Consultation: Educates patients, families, and staff on respiratory care and consults with physicians to optimize care plans.
• Specialized Care: Provides Labor & Delivery support and external critical care transport for neonatal/pediatric patients if assigned.
• Administration & Compliance: Maintains accurate medical documentation and timekeeping; adheres to all local, state, federal, and Joint Commission regulations.

Professional Expectations

• Leadership: Acts as a Shift Team Leader or Resource Therapist when necessary.
• Professional Development: Participates in Quality Improvement (QI) activities, research, and continuing education.
• Resource Management: Practices fiscal responsibility regarding hospital supplies and equipment.

Employment Requirements

• Education: Must meet NBRC eligibility requirements (Bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy preferred)

Licensure

• Current Virginia state license as a Respiratory Therapist
• Current CPR certification (ACLS/PALS preferred)
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential required