Respiratory Therapist

KALESTA HEALTHCARE GROUP; Bellevue (WA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

KALESTA HEALTHCARE GROUP in Bellevue, Washington, is seeking a dedicated Respiratory Therapist (RT) to provide high-quality respiratory care services. The RT will collaborate with nursing, therapy, and medical staff to meet residents’ respiratory needs and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate will hold an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy, possess a current state license, and have at least one year of clinical experience. Familiarity with technology-dependent patients is preferred.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of clinical respiratory care experience preferred.
• Prior experience with ventilator management strongly preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and assist with patient transfers.

Responsibilities

• Administer physician-prescribed respiratory therapy treatments.
• Monitor and document residents’ respiratory status and treatment outcomes.
• Respond promptly to emergency situations, including CPR.
• Educate residents and families on respiratory care.

Skills

Strong knowledge of respiratory care principles

Excellent communication skills

Problem-solving abilities

Ability to work in a team

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy

Current Washington State Respiratory Therapist license

Credentialed by the National Board for Respiratory Care

Current Basic Life Support certification

Job description

The Respiratory Therapist (RT) provides high‑quality respiratory care services to residents in accordance with physician orders, facility policies, and state/federal regulations. The RT sets up, operates, and monitors respiratory therapy equipment, delivers therapeutic treatments, and collaborates with interdisciplinary staff to ensure residents’ respiratory needs are met. Reporting directly to the Director of Rehabilitation, the RT works closely with nursing, therapy, and medical staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer physician‑prescribed respiratory therapy treatments, including oxygen therapy, ventilator support, nebulizer therapy, and chest physiotherapy.
• Monitor, assess, and document residents’ respiratory status, treatment outcomes, and progress.
• Perform pulmonary function tests, pulse oximetry, and ventilator weaning assessments.
• Respond promptly to emergency situations, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Clean, sterilize, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment.
• Educate residents and families on respiratory care, equipment use, and self‑management strategies.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care planning and collaborate with nursing, therapy, and medical staff.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, infection control, OBRA, and state/federal long‑term care regulations.
• Provide compassionate, resident‑centered care while respecting resident rights, dignity, and confidentiality.

Education and License Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current Washington State Respiratory Therapist license.
• Credentialed by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (ACLS preferred).

Experience

• Minimum 1 year of clinical respiratory care experience preferred; SNF or long‑term care experience a plus.
• Prior experience with ventilator management and tracheostomy care strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with technology‑dependent patients and geriatric populations.

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong knowledge of respiratory care principles, procedures, and equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and customer service skills.
• Strong problem‑solving and critical‑thinking abilities, especially in emergency situations.
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs, assist with patient transfers, and stand/walk for extended periods.