Respiratory Therapist

AVD Workforce Connect; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare staffing agency is seeking a full-time Respiratory Therapist in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The role involves providing critical respiratory care and managing ventilators in various healthcare settings. Candidates should have an active Indiana license, an associate's degree in respiratory therapy, and strong clinical skills. Experience in critical care is preferred, alongside proficiency in using respiratory equipment. The position emphasizes patient education and collaboration with healthcare teams to deliver comprehensive care.

Qualifications

• Must hold an active Respiratory Therapist license in Indiana.
• Education: Associate's degree required, Bachelor's preferred.
• Registered Respiratory Therapist credential required.
• Experience in critical care settings (ICU/ED) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough assessments of patients’ respiratory status.
• Expertly operate and monitor ventilators and respiratory equipment.
• Perform diagnostic tests like ABG analysis and spirometry.
• Develop and update individualized respiratory care plans.
• Administer aerosolized medications and bronchial hygiene techniques.
• Respond to respiratory emergencies providing advanced life support.
• Educate patients and families on respiratory health management.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals on treatment planning.
• Document all aspects of respiratory care in EHR systems.
• Adhere to safety protocols and regulatory standards.

Skills

Proficiency in operating respiratory equipment

Strong clinical assessment skills

Excellent communication skills

Calm under pressure

Patient-focused approach

Education

Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy

Bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy

Tools

Ventilators

Oxygen therapy devices

Job description

Fort Wayne, United States | Posted on 01/06/2025

Location: Fort Wayne, IN Job Type: Full-time Multiple openings per shift: 1st, 2nd, or 3rd

Job Summary: This will be a full-time, direct placement position. Respiratory Therapists are highly trained healthcare professionals who specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with respiratory disorders. As a Respiratory Therapist, you will be responsible for providing critical respiratory care to patients across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care environments. Your expertise in managing ventilators, administering respiratory therapies, and performing diagnostic tests will be crucial in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions and those experiencing acute respiratory distress, such as those affected by COVID-19. You will also play a key role in educating patients and their families on managing respiratory health, ensuring they receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Patient Assessment: Conduct thorough assessments of patients’ respiratory status, including reviewing medical history, performing physical examinations, and interpreting diagnostic test results.
• Ventilator and Equipment Management: Expertly operate, adjust, and monitor ventilators, oxygen delivery systems, and other respiratory equipment to ensure optimal patient care, especially in critical care settings such as ICUs.
• Diagnostic Testing: Perform and analyze diagnostic tests, such as arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, lung function tests (spirometry), and pulse oximetry, to assess respiratory function and guide treatment decisions.
• Respiratory Care Planning: Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized respiratory care plans based on patient assessments, medical orders, and established protocols, ensuring the delivery of appropriate and effective treatments.
• Therapeutic Interventions: Administer respiratory therapies, including aerosolized medications, chest physiotherapy, and bronchial hygiene techniques, to improve patient breathing and lung function.
• Emergency Response: Respond promptly to respiratory emergencies, such as cardiac arrest or acute respiratory failure, providing advanced life support and initiating life‑saving interventions.
• Patient and Family Education: Educate patients and their families on respiratory health management, including the proper use of inhalers, oxygen therapy, and techniques for improving lung health. Guide lifestyle modifications to enhance respiratory wellness.
• Collaboration: Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive care, participate in interdisciplinary rounds, and contribute to treatment planning.
• Documentation: Accurately document all aspects of respiratory care, including assessments, interventions, patient responses, and equipment settings, in the electronic health record (EHR) system.
• Quality and Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols, infection control procedures, and regulatory standards to maintain a safe and high‑quality care environment.

Requirements

Licensure: Must hold an active and unencumbered Respiratory Therapist license in the state of Indiana.

Education: An Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program is required; a Bachelor's degree is preferred.

Certification: Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is required. Advanced certifications such as Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) or Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) are highly desirable.

Experience: Previous experience in respiratory care is preferred; experience in critical care settings such as ICUs or emergency departments is highly advantageous.

Skills

• Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting respiratory equipment, including ventilators and oxygen therapy devices.
• Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high‑pressure and emergency situations.
• Compassionate and patient‑focused approach to care.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift and move patients and respiratory equipment as needed.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring manual dexterity and physical endurance.

Non-Discrimination Statement

AVD Workforce Connect is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.