Job Title: Respiratory Therapist-PRN- Long-Term Care Facility
Job Summary:
If you’re a Respiratory Therapist looking for a role where you can truly focus on patient care, this position offers a meaningful and rewarding experience. You’ll work with residents who have chronic and complex respiratory conditions, providing consistent support focused on comfort, stability, and long-term progress.
This role allows you the time to really get to know the people you’re caring for. Instead of brief interactions, you’ll build relationships, earn trust, and see the impact of your respiratory care over days, weeks, and months. Your work will directly contribute to helping residents breathe easier and improve their overall quality of life.
This position is ideal for Respiratory Therapists who value meaningful connections, a manageable pace, and a supportive work environment. You’ll enjoy a flexible schedule and the opportunity to practice respiratory care in a way that feels intentional, personal, and fulfilling.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform initial and ongoing assessments of residents' respiratory status, including respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, lung sounds, and overall airway function.
- Review medical records and collaborate with the medical team to develop individualized care plans.
- Monitor residents for changes in respiratory condition and implement appropriate interventions.
- Respiratory Therapy Administration:
- Administer oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, and inhaled medications.
- Set up and manage mechanical ventilation (if applicable) or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
- Perform chest physiotherapy (postural drainage, percussion, and vibration) to assist in mobilizing secretions.
- Educate residents and their families on the proper use of respiratory equipment and medications.
- Provide guidance on managing chronic respiratory conditions and promoting respiratory wellness.
- Offer instructions on techniques for improving lung function, breathing exercises, and airway clearance.
- Work closely with nursing staff, physicians, and other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care plans.
- Attend care planning meetings and contribute to discussions on respiratory-related interventions and treatment goals.
- Assist with end-of-life care and palliative respiratory management when appropriate.
- Documentation & Reporting:
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of respiratory treatments and interventions.
- Document changes in residents' respiratory status and communicate with physicians and nurses regarding significant changes.
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations concerning respiratory care documentation.
- Ensure the proper use, maintenance, and cleaning of respiratory equipment.
- Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and ensure readiness for use when needed.
- Monitor respiratory care quality standards and provide recommendations for improvements.
- Participate in facility audits and assist with compliance with all regulations and standards.
- Respond promptly to respiratory emergencies, including acute respiratory distress or failure.
- Assist with CPR and other life-saving interventions as needed.
Qualifications:
- Education:
- Associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field (Bachelor's preferred).
- Completion of an accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
- Licenses/Certifications:
- State of North Carolina Respiratory Care Practitioner license.
- Certification by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) or Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT).
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification may be required depending on facility requirements.
- Experience:
- Previous experience in a long-term care, hospital, or rehabilitation setting preferred.
- Familiarity with chronic respiratory diseases and ventilator management is essential.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
- Skills:
- Strong assessment and clinical decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication skills to interact with residents, families, and the healthcare team.
- Knowledge of respiratory care techniques, equipment, and protocols.
- Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks in a busy healthcare environment.
Work Environment:
- Long-term care facilities or skilled nursing homes with 24-hour care.
- May involve shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, or on-call duties.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, and move residents as needed.
- Frequent bending, lifting, and pushing respiratory equipment.
- Ability to respond quickly in emergencies.
Salary and Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and other benefits.
- Continuing education and professional development opportunities.
