What does a Respiratory Therapist IV do?
Respiratory therapists help patients who have trouble breathing by providing general and emergency respiratory therapy. This entails assessing patients by performing diagnostic tests and evaluations, treating patients, and tracking progress. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals or skilled nursing facilities.
Respiratory therapists must have an associate's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited respiratory program and be licensed as a Registered Respiratory Therapist. To become licensed, they must pass a national certification exam and complete any additional licensure requirements, as determined by the state of practice. The best respiratory therapists are compassionate, possess great interpersonal skills, and have a strong grasp on anaomy and physiology.
- Perform assessments and diagnostic procedures to determine patient treatment needs
- Make recommendations for respiratory care and treatment
- Perform treatment procedures according to patient needs
- Modify care plan based on patient progress and treatment effectiveness
- Operate, maintain, and repair respiratory equipment to ensure proper functioning, cleanliness, and operation
- Comply with all outlined safety and health standards
- Document patient's respiratory care
- Educate the patient, family, and team on respiratory problems and treatment
- associate's Degree in Respiratory Care from an accredited respiratory care program
- Current Registered Respiratory Therapist license in state of practice
- 1 year of experience in respiratory therapy
- Working knowledge of respiratory equipment and medical supplies
- Strong leadership skills and a professional attitude
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage the emotional stress of working with and caring for terminally ill patients/families
- Familiar with safety and confidentiality standards
- Comfortable working independently
How much does a Registered Respiratory Therapist IV make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$94,577
/ yrRespiratory Therapist IV Career Path
Learn how to become a Respiratory Therapist IV, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Average Years of Experience
Respiratory Therapist IV Insights
Hyur Staffing Services“I have been with 4 staffing agencies and Cody Rivera has been the best account manager to work with.”
Sutter Health“I am not sure how much longer it can remain such a great place to work.”
Baptist Medical Center South (AL)“Good team work and clean”
Swedish“Overall one of the best places to work in WA state and not get burnt out.”
Callmax Solutions“Providing opportunities to learn and grow in our careers”
Mayo Clinic“great facility to work and earn experiences”
Emanate Health“Friendly staff and I enjoy working here”
Aya Healthcare“Good pay and I personally loved my recruiter”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist IV
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