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.