Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

• Current state licensure required
• BLS certification required prior to first shift
• ACLS required prior to first shift
• Must possess "Active" CRT or RRT credential from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) or state equivalent.
• Minimum two (2) years bedside clinical experience

Quality Improvement: Respiratory therapists may participate in quality improvement initiatives within their healthcare facility, such as implementing protocols to enhance patient outcomes, conducting research studies, or staying updated on advancements in respiratory care practices.

Assessment and Evaluation: Respiratory therapists assess patients with breathing difficulties, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or respiratory failure. They evaluate patients' lung capacity, oxygen levels, and other respiratory functions to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Planning: Based on their assessments, respiratory therapists develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. This may involve administering medications, oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy, or mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing.

Equipment Management: Respiratory therapists are proficient in operating and maintaining various respiratory equipment, including ventilators, oxygen tanks, nebulizers, and CPAP machines. They ensure that equipment is functioning properly and provide education to patients on how to use them effectively.

Emergency Response: In emergency situations such as cardiac arrest or trauma, respiratory therapists play a vital role in providing respiratory support and managing airways to stabilize patients until further medical assistance arrives.

Patient Education: Respiratory therapists educate patients and their families about respiratory conditions, treatment options, and techniques for managing symptoms. They may also provide guidance on lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation, to improve respiratory health.

Collaboration: Respiratory therapists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and physical therapists, to coordinate patient care effectively. They participate in multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans and monitor patient progress.

Documentation: Detailed documentation of patient assessments, treatments, and progress is a crucial aspect of the respiratory therapist's role. They maintain accurate medical records and communicate effectively with other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care.