Kindred Healthcare·Selma, Alabama
The Respiratory Therapist provides respiratory care to patients across all age groups by executing treatments, managing ventilators, conducting diagnostic tests, and assisting with emergency procedures. This role involves collaborating with the healthcare team to ensure quality, patient-centered care aligned with clinical standards and policies.
Join Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma, AL, a 175-bed, Joint Commission–accredited community hospital that serves as a critical healthcare hub in the region.
Vaughan delivers a full complement of hospital services, including emergency care, to the Black Belt area of southern Alabama.
As part of ScionHealth, Vaughan combines system strength with strong local impact so that you can make your mark where your work truly matters.
Job Summary The Respiratory Therapist provides respiratory care to patients of all age groups by performing respiratory therapy treatments, ventilator management, diagnostic testing, and emergency procedures.
The Respiratory Therapist collaborates with the healthcare team to deliver quality, patient-centered care in accordance with clinical policies, procedures, and professional standards.
Essential Functions Performs routine respiratory therapy procedures including oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, chest physiotherapy, and suctioning.
Assists with emergency interventions, including manual resuscitation and code response.
Manages and monitors mechanical ventilators, including appropriate parameter adjustments and troubleshooting.
Obtains and interprets arterial blood gases and communicates results.
Conducts pulmonary function testing and 12-lead EKGs; identifies life-threatening arrhythmias.
Maintains and calibrates respiratory equipment according to infection control guidelines.
Documents care delivered, interventions, and patient responses accurately and in a timely manner.
Assists with quality improvement activities and departmental clerical functions.
Communicates effectively with patients, families, and healthcare staff.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations Strong foundational knowledge of respiratory therapy equipment and procedures.
Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
Demonstrates safe practice and infection control compliance.
Physically capable of prolonged standing, walking, lifting up to 50 lbs, and operating patient care equipment.
Works cooperatively within multidisciplinary teams.
Exposure to blood, body fluids, airborne pathogens, hazardous materials, and varying temperatures.
Requires use of personal protective equipment and adherence to OSHA standards.
Education Graduate of a two-year AMA-approved respiratory therapy program leading to CRT or RRT eligibility.
Licenses/Certifications Current state license or certification as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Basic Life Support (BLS) required within time frame required by facility policy.
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) required within time frame required by facility policy.
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) (per facility requirements) within time frame required by facility policy.
Experience Experience in an acute care or clinical environment preferred.
Requires critical thinking skills, judgment, and the ability to work independently in high-stress situations.
Candidates must graduate from an AMA-approved respiratory therapy program and hold current state licensure or certification, along with CRT or RRT credentials. Required certifications include BLS, ACLS, and potentially PALS/NRP, alongside physical capability for lifting and prolonged standing, with acute care experience being preferred.
Market context
In Alabama, allied health roles in behavioral and social services often draw steady demand from schools, clinics, and community agencies serving children and families. These positions are competitive because employers typically look for a master’s degree, eligibility for LMSW or ALC credentials, and preferred licensure such as LPC or LCSW, plus child welfare experience. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, and confirm your credential path before applying.
