Certified Respiratory Therapist

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System; Boone (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System seeks a Certified Respiratory Therapist to deliver comprehensive clinical support in the department, greeting and preparing patients, recording histories and vitals, and assisting providers with examinations and procedures.

The CRT administers inhaled medications, performs arterial blood-gas sampling, conducts PFTs, and works toward ARRT limited-scope radiography certification within a year, while maintaining data in the EHR and safeguarding patient

Qualifications

• Graduate of a one-year accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
• NBRC registry or registry eligible by NBRC standards.
• Current BLS certification required at time of hire.
• ARRT X-ray certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Greet and prepare patients, record histories and vitals.
• Administer inhaled medications and perform ABG sampling.
• Conduct PFTs and accurately document care in the EHR.
• Assist providers with examinations and procedures.
• Maintain infection-control standards and clinic cleanliness.

Skills

Anatomy knowledge

Medical terminology

Communication

Teamwork

Confidentiality

Independence

Interpersonal skills

Education

Graduate of one-year accredited Respiratory Therapy program

Job description

The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) will deliver comprehensive clinical support in the department , greeting and preparing patients, recording histories and vitals, and assisting providers with examinations and procedures. Beyond core respiratory duties, administering inhaled medications, performing arterial blood-gas sampling, conducting PFTs, and documenting care, the therapist will obtain ARRT limited-scope radiography certification within one year to perform diagnostic x-rays. Additional responsibilities include giving injections, collecting lab specimens, and ensuring all interventions follow established protocols and standards while accurately capturing data in the EHR and safeguarding patient privacy.

Complementing direct care, the CRT educates patients on treatment plans, medications, and self-care, fostering understanding and adherence. The role also manages scheduling, referrals, billing support, and record maintenance; keeps clinic spaces clean, stocked, and compliant with infection-control guidelines; and orders supplies, and equipment as needed. Working closely with physicians, APPs, and interdisciplinary teammates, the CRT participates in meetings and trainings to promote efficient, coordinated care and uphold the clinic’s high standards for quality, safety, and patient experience.

Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Hiring compensation ranges starting at $24.58 perhour. This position is non-exempt.

Position Qualifications

Graduate of one-year accredited Respiratory Therapy program

Experience

0-1 years of experience as a Medical Assistant, preferably in a clinical or outpatient setting.

Previous experience of one year in acute care setting preferred

Required Registration/License/Certification

Registry with the NBRC or registry eligible by the NBRC standards

Current certification as a Medical Assistant or by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) preferred.

Basic Life Support (BLS) issued by the American Heart Association is required at time of hire.

X-Ray Certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Strong understanding of anatomy and medical terminology.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a healthcare team.

Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality.

Physical Demands

Ability to stand, walk, and move comfortably within the clinic setting.

Manual dexterity for tasks such as administering medications, conducting procedures, and operating medical equipment.

Lifting and positioning capabilities to assist patients and handle clinical supplies.

Sharp visual acuity for patient assessments, documentation, and reading medical records.

Working Conditions

Primarily in a clinic setting with occasional travel to other clinical sites.

Standard with flexibility based on patient needs.

Exposure to radiation; strict adherence to safety protocols.

Handles emergencies or crisis situations