Respiratory Therapist

Make a difference where your skills matter most. UPMC Northwest is seeking a Casual Respiratory Therapist to support respiratory care, EKG, PFT, and EEG services across our rural hospital. Deliver evidence-based therapy and life-support interventions using the latest modalities while caring for patients of all ages.

Shifts: typically, 12 hours

Responsibilities

Clinical Care Review prescriptions, arterial blood gases, and patient information to assess condition and determine appropriate therapy type, duration, and medication dosages. Determine the most effective method for administering inhalants, including necessary precautions and modifications aligned with physician orders. Monitor patient responses to therapy—vital signs, ABGs, and lab values—and adjust treatment as needed. Perform bronchopulmonary drainage and assist patients with breathing exercises. Conduct pulmonary function tests to support physician diagnosis. Consult with physicians regarding adverse reactions or changes in patient status. Assist with transporting mechanically ventilated patients and respond to all code situations.

Technical & Equipment Management Set up and operate respiratory care equipment, including mechanical ventilators, gas administration systems, environmental control devices, and aerosol generators. Ensure treatment parameters—such as volume, gas concentration, humidity, and temperature—are accurately maintained. Administer medicinal gases and aerosol medications while monitoring and adjusting equipment for optimal therapeutic effect. Inspect, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation; initiate repair requests as needed.

Documentation & Communication Maintain accurate and thorough patient charts documenting all relevant identification and therapy information. Education & Training Demonstrate respiratory care procedures to trainees and healthcare personnel. Supervise students during clinical training.

Graduate of a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Care program required. Students with a temporary respiratory license may begin employment with Human Resources approval and submission of official transcripts. Respiratory Therapists earning their CRT credential from the NBRC after July 1, 2002 must maintain certification per NBRC requirements.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances BLS or CPR certification (AHA-standard, including didactic and skills demonstration) required within 30 days of hire. CRTT (Certified Respiratory Therapy Technician) Osteopathic Respiratory Care or Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license, as applicable.

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran