Description
As a Respiratory Therapist (RT), assess, treat, and care for patients with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary disorders. Manage respiratory care modalities, including ventilatory support and oxygen therapy; perform therapeutic and diagnostic procedures; maintain accurate documentation; and select, assemble, check, and operate respiratory equipment, while supervising support staff as needed.
- • Set up, initiate, and manage mechanical ventilators and noninvasive ventilation (CPAP/BiPAP) per orders and protocols.
- • Administer therapeutic gases, aerosols, and humidity therapy within ordered parameters.
- • Determine and implement treatment type, method, duration, and precautions consistent with physician or advanced practice provider orders and protocols.
- • Monitor patient response to therapy, including vital signs, pulse oximetry, and arterial blood gases; report and act on adverse trends.
- • Obtain and analyze arterial, venous, or capillary blood gases and relay results to the care team.
- • Perform pulmonary function testing and adjust techniques or equipment for optimal data quality.
- • Provide airway management, including suctioning, airway clearance techniques, and bronchopulmonary hygiene.
- • Perform or assist with endotracheal intubation and manage artificial airways.
- • Deliver emergency respiratory care, including manual ventilation and participation in CPR and rapid response events.
- • Educate patients and families on disease management, inhaler and nebulizer use, and breathing exercises.
- • Explain procedures to patients to gain cooperation and reduce anxiety.
- • Maintain accurate charts and electronic documentation of assessments, therapies, and outcomes.
- • Inspect, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain respiratory care equipment; arrange repairs as needed.
- • Enforce infection control and safety policies and ensure adherence to provider orders.
- • Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to coordinate respiratory care plans.
- • Conduct diagnostic tests such as bedside spirometry, peak flow, and oximetry; assist with cardiopulmonary stress testing as permitted.
- • Teach and precept students, technicians, or new staff in respiratory care procedures.
- • Respond to equipment alarms and therapy issues with timely bedside support.
- • Transport or accompany patients on oxygen or ventilator support within the facility.
- • Monitor cardiac rhythm and rate with appropriate devices when indicated and report abnormalities.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
