Respiratory Therapist

Job Title: Respiratory Therapist

Location (Onsite, Remote, or Hybrid?): Norfolk, VA (ONSITE)

Contract Duration: PERM

Working Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Total Weekly Hours: 35hrs

This position is responsible for administering all aspects of respiratory care to patients with cardiopulmonary diseases and disorders within a rehabilitation or long-term care setting. The therapist will work as part of an interdisciplinary team to restore patient function and prevent debilitating cardiopulmonary complications.

Core Responsibilities

• Clinical Care & Assessment:

• Perform comprehensive cardiopulmonary assessments and monitor patient status, including arterial blood gas analysis, pulse oximetry, and capnography.

• Administer and monitor therapeutic interventions such as medical gas administration, aerosolized medication delivery, chest physiotherapy, and bronchial hygiene.

• Mechanical Ventilation & Airway Management:

• Initiate, manage, and wean patients from mechanical ventilation (invasive and non-invasive) as directed by the physician.

• Perform routine tracheostomy care, suctioning, and endotracheal tube management.

• Provide patient and caregiver education on proper equipment use, including portable oxygen and nebulizers, for transition to home.

• Documentation & Teamwork:

• Maintain accurate and timely electronic documentation of patient care, assessments, and treatment responses according to facility and regulatory standards.

• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists to contribute to the overall patient-centered care plan.

• Equipment Maintenance:

• Ensure all respiratory equipment is clean, calibrated, and maintained according to infection control and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Education & Certification: Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Care program. Current Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential required.
• Licensure: Current state Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license in good standing.
• Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years of clinical experience, preferably in acute care, critical care, or a rehabilitation/skilled nursing facility setting.
• Skills: Proven competency in ventilator management, critical thinking, problem-solving, and patient education.
• Compliance: Up-to-date knowledge of all relevant state and federal healthcare regulations (HIPAA, JCAHO).
• Export to Sheets

Work Environment & Schedule

• This role operates within a clinical setting, requiring flexibility and the ability to respond to patient needs rapidly.
• Must be able to lift, transfer, and reposition patients using proper body mechanics and assistive devices.
• Schedule may require weekend, holiday, and on-call coverage.