Location: Fredericksburg, VA (United States) | Industry: Acute Care
Pay Range: USD $32.95–$48.00/hour (based on years of experience)
Position Summary
Provide comprehensive respiratory care services to neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients in an acute care setting. Perform diagnostic testing, deliver therapeutic interventions, and respond to emergency situations to support optimal cardiopulmonary function. Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure safe, evidence-based care.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess patients; develop and implement respiratory care plans; monitor and document response to therapy.
- Administer oxygen therapy, aerosolized medications, bronchial hygiene therapies, and lung expansion modalities.
- Manage invasive and non-invasive ventilation, including ventilator setup, adjustments, weaning, and troubleshooting.
- Perform arterial/capillary blood gas sampling and analysis; interpret results and communicate findings.
- Conduct EKG/oximetry monitoring, pulmonary function testing as assigned, and bedside diagnostics per policy.
- Provide airway management support, including suctioning, tracheostomy care, and assistance with intubation.
- Respond to rapid response/codes; provide CPR and advanced airway/ventilation support within scope.
- Maintain equipment readiness; perform safety checks, cleaning, and calibration according to standards.
- Educate patients and families on respiratory medications, devices, breathing techniques, and home care as appropriate.
- Comply with infection prevention, medication safety, documentation, and regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Care program (Associate or Bachelor’s degree required).
- Current Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential through NBRC.
- Active Respiratory Care Practitioner license in Virginia (or ability to obtain prior to start date).
- Current BLS (American Heart Association) required.
- ACLS required or obtained within a defined onboarding period; PALS and/or NRP may be required based on unit assignment.
- Minimum 1 year of acute care experience preferred; new graduates considered with strong clinical rotations/preceptorship.
- Proficiency with mechanical ventilation, ABG sampling, and acute respiratory therapies.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and participate in on-call as needed.
- Strong communication, critical thinking, and EMR documentation skills.
- Ability to meet physical demands of the role, including standing/walking, moving equipment, and assisting with patient positioning.
Work Environment
Fast-paced acute care environment with exposure to infectious diseases, aerosols, and emergent clinical situations; required use of PPE and adherence to safety policies.
