Respiratory Therapist - Respiratory Care

Job Description

Salary Range

The expected base rate for this Glens Falls, New York, United States-based position is $33.00 to $49.50 per hour. Exact rate is determined on a case-by-case basis commensurate with experience level, as well as education and certifications pertaining to each position which may be above the listed job requirements.

The Impact You Can Make

The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) performs cardio-pulmonary evaluation, respiratory care, life support and education of the patient, family and public. The RRT works with in and outpatients of all ages with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system following established protocols or the prescription of a physician. The RRT can perform respiratory care duties in all areas of the hospital.

How You Will Fulfill Your Potential (Responsibilities)

PATIENT TREATMENT AND THERAPEUTICS:

• Provides respiratory care for adult, pediatric, and neonatal patients by administering oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, incentive spirometry, pulmonary drainage, and medical gas therapy. Initiates, manages, and monitors invasive and non-invasive ventilatory support, including CPAP, BiPAP, and high-flow oxygen systems. Performs airway management and secretion clearance to support spontaneous and artificial ventilation. Responds to emergencies and critical events, including codes, rapid response activations, and CPR for patients of all ages. Attends high-risk deliveries and Caesarean sections to provide neonatal respiratory care. Maintains accurate patient documentation, including assessments, treatments, and outcomes.

PATIENT ASSESSMENT

• Reviews physician orders for respiratory medications and treatments, assesses patient records and clinical findings to determine the appropriateness of respiratory care, and recommends changes as needed. Performs patient assessments through observation, auscultation, and interviews. Collaborates with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary team members to develop and communicate effective care plans. Monitors patient responses to therapy, adjusts treatment techniques accordingly, and recommends modifications to respiratory care plans, including invasive and non-invasive ventilation strategies.

PATIENT TESTING

• Performs and analyzes diagnostic tests, including arterial blood gases, pulse oximetry, capnography, EKGs, and pulmonary function studies, while addressing age-specific patient needs. Interprets respiratory-related diagnostic data such as chest X-rays, blood gas results, sleep studies, ventilator weaning parameters, and EKG findings to assess oxygenation, ventilation, and overall respiratory status.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Provides patient and family education on disease processes, medications, and treatment goals, offering ongoing support during respiratory care, discharge planning, and outpatient services. Educates and collaborates with healthcare team members to promote effective patient care. Assists in orienting and mentoring new respiratory therapists and participates in the training and education of students and new employees across healthcare disciplines, including nursing, pharmacy, and emergency medical services.

SAFETY AND INFECTION CONTROL

• Assembles, adjusts and checks respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently.Initiates/recommends repair when needed.
• Performs scheduled preventive maintenance and QC on the arterial blood gas machines per manufacturer specifications.
• Recommends technology most appropriate to maximize patient comfort, safety, and special or age related needs and provide effective and appropriate use of technology.

What You Bring (Qualifications)

Education/Accredited Programs

• Graduate with certification of completion from a two year approved training program in Respiratory Care; an Associate's Degree is required to meet the requirements of the National Board of Respiratory Care to take the RRT exam.
• Minimum of one year of clinical experience as a Respiratory Therapist in an acute care hospital or long-term ventilator facility is preferred.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations

• Licensed Respiratory Therapist. Required to obtain a NYS Respiratory Therapist license within 6 months of employment.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
• Current BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP certification is required (can be obtained upon employment).

Skills/Abilities

• Demonstrates advanced clinical competence in respiratory care, including arterial blood gas sampling, pulmonary function testing, ventilator management, medication administration, and operation of respiratory and computerized medical record systems.
• Effectively communicates with patients, families, physicians, and healthcare team members while maintaining strong documentation practices.
• Applies critical thinking, mathematical, and problem-solving skills to interpret diagnostic data, technical procedures, and treatment protocols.
• Maintains patient safety, adapts to changing clinical situations, prioritizes workload effectively, and provides care to patients across the lifespan.
• Supports professional development through continuing education and fosters positive working relationships in both routine and emergency care settings.