Respiratory Nurse - RN

General Purpose

The Respiratory Nurse, RN is responsible for providing cardiopulmonary care services in accordance with physician orders, department policies, and accepted standards of nursing practice. This role includes administering respiratory therapy and life support, performing diagnostic tests on the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of heart and lung disorders. The Respiratory Nurse collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, provides education to residents and families, and ensures compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Clinical Respiratory Care
• Administer respiratory therapy treatments and nebulized medications, understanding the purpose and potential side effects of each.
• Maintain knowledge of oxygen delivery methods and equipment, monitoring residents for side effects and adjusting care as appropriate.
• Set up, operate, and monitor mechanical ventilators, performing associated critical care tasks.
• Conduct pulmonary function tests, upload report interpretations, and communicate results to physicians and clinical leadership.
• Perform incentive spirometry, chest physiotherapy, Flutter therapy, therapeutic exercises, and utilize devices such as Omniflow for treatment or testing.
• Assess residents’ ability to tolerate treatments and reassess responses, adjusting care as needed.
• Treat residents of varying ages (pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric) with appropriate techniques and dosing knowledge.

• Documentation & Communication
• Accurately document all respiratory care, assessments, and treatments in electronic or paper medical records.
• Maintain departmental forms, flow charts, and logbooks in accordance with facility policies.
• Formulate and evaluate teaching plans for residents and their families regarding respiratory care and treatment plans.

• Safety & Equipment Management
• Inspect, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure safe and effective operation.
• Follow departmental sterilization and infection control procedures.
• Monitor compliance with infection control, safety, and emergency protocols.

• Education & Professional Development
• Attend in-service education programs to maintain professional competency.
• Participate in continuous quality improvement (CQI) initiatives and performance improvement teams related to respiratory care.
• Serve as a resource for staff education regarding respiratory therapy procedures and equipment use.

• Collaboration & Leadership
• Coordinate and direct resident care to ensure needs are met and policies are followed.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team discussions, care planning, and department meetings.
• Communicate effectively with residents, families, physicians, and staff to provide high-quality, resident-centered care.

Qualifications

• Maintain current state RN license in good standing.
• Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (must be obtained within 30 days of hire if not already held).
• Adhere to all state, federal, and facility regulatory requirements.
• Maintain professional appearance, confidentiality, and compliance with ethical standards.
• Knowledge of general clinical and respiratory services.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to assess complex situations and determine appropriate interventions.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of all medical, financial, and legal information.
• Ability to handle difficult situations with professionalism and maintain a positive attitude.
• Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Physical Demands

Work Environment

Disclaimer

3-4 12 hour shift and rotating weekends