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 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

• Work may include evenings or weekends to meet deadlines. 
• Work performed in varying temperatures (heated or air-conditioned). 
• Work under pressure in fast-paced environments. 
• Walking or standing for 10–12 hours per day. 
• Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver up to 50 pounds. 
• Ability to reach, bend, stoop, handle objects, talk, hear, and see effectively. 

Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. 
• Direct or indirect exposure to residents with medical conditions or communicable illnesses. 
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to infection-control protocols. 
• Work performed in a healthcare or long-term care environment. 

Disclaimer 

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.