About this position
Description:
Position: Respiratory Therapist
Department: Clinical
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Clinic Manager
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB SUMMARY: Under direct supervision, the Respiratory Therapist is responsible for performing diagnostic testing, providing patient education, and assisting with the management of chronic respiratory conditions within the outpatient clinic setting to ensure quality patient outcomes and regulatory compliance.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- None
Safety Sensitive Role:
- Yes
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Perform and interpret pulmonary function tests (PFTs), including spirometry, lung volumes, and diffusion capacity.
- Conduct initial patient interviews, review medical histories, and perform physical assessments to assist in care planning.
- Administer prescribed nebulized medications and provide oxygen therapy assessments.
- Educate patients and families on disease management, proper inhaler technique, and the use of respiratory equipment (e.g., CPAP/BiPAP).
- Calibrate, inspect, and maintain diagnostic respiratory equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance with safety standards.
- Document all patient interactions, test results, and treatment plans accurately and timely in the electronic medical record (EMR).
- Coordinate with the multidisciplinary care team to monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as needed.
- Assist with patient scheduling and administrative tasks related to respiratory care workflows.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Knowledge of respiratory therapy clinical protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Demonstrate strong customer service and communication skills.
- Organizational and time management skills.
- Proficient computer skills and experience with EMR systems.
- Possess a strong work ethic and a high level of professionalism.
- A team player who handles multiple clinical priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Language Ability: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations. Ability to effectively explain complex medical information to patients and families.
- Math Ability: Ability to calculate medication dosages and interpret diagnostic data (ratios, percentages, and trends).
- Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve clinical problems, recognize when to escalate care to a physician, and interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
- Teamwork/Service/Growth: Strong commitment to collaborative care, a focus on meeting patient needs, and a drive for continuous professional learning.
Education and Experience:
- Associate’s degree from an accredited Respiratory Therapy program required.
- Current, unrestricted Respiratory Therapist license.
- Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential by the NBRC.
- 1+ year of experience in a clinical or outpatient setting preferred.
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, reaching, and bending.
- Frequent operation of diagnostic equipment and computer systems.
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Disclaimers:
- This job description reflects the clinic's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
- Critical features of this job are listed above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.