Certified Respiratory Therapist or RRT - Respiratory Therapy

About the Role

As a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) at Wagoner Community Hospital (WCH), you will play a critical role in delivering high-quality respiratory care to patients with acute and chronic respiratory conditions. Your expertise will directly impact patient outcomes by assessing, treating, and managing respiratory disorders using advanced therapeutic techniques and equipment. You will collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans that optimize respiratory function and enhance patient comfort. This role demands a commitment to continuous learning and adherence to the latest clinical guidelines and safety protocols to ensure the highest standard of care. Ultimately, your work will contribute to improving the overall health and quality of life for the diverse patient population served by WCH.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
• Valid state licensure to practice respiratory therapy in the state where Wagoner Community Hospital is located.
• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program.
• Demonstrated knowledge of respiratory care principles, equipment, and clinical procedures.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification; Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a hospital or acute care setting, preferably within a community hospital environment.
• Additional certifications such as Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and respiratory care documentation software.
• Strong communication and patient education skills to effectively support diverse patient populations.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and participation in respiratory therapy professional organizations.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive respiratory assessments and develop treatment plans tailored to individual patient needs.
• Administer respiratory therapies including oxygen delivery, aerosolized medications, mechanical ventilation, and airway management.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust treatments accordingly while documenting all care activities accurately in medical records.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care and participate in clinical rounds and case discussions.
• Maintain and troubleshoot respiratory equipment to ensure safety and functionality, adhering to infection control standards.
• Educate patients and their families on respiratory care techniques, disease management, and preventive measures.
• Respond promptly to respiratory emergencies and provide critical care support as needed.

Skills

The required and preferred skills are integral to delivering effective respiratory care on a daily basis. Clinical assessment skills enable the therapist to accurately evaluate patient respiratory status and tailor interventions accordingly. Proficiency with respiratory equipment and technology ensures safe and efficient treatment delivery, while troubleshooting skills minimize downtime and enhance patient safety. Communication skills facilitate collaboration with healthcare teams and empower patients through education about their conditions and therapies. Additionally, familiarity with electronic documentation systems supports accurate record-keeping and compliance with regulatory standards, contributing to overall quality patient care.