Registered Respiratory Therapist
Position Overview
The Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) provides specialized respiratory care to patients, ensuring high-quality treatment for a range of critical and general therapy needs. The RRT is responsible for performing airway management, lung expansion therapy, bronchial hygiene, and administering inhaled medications. Additionally, the RRT manages mechanical ventilation and troubleshoots associated critical care equipment, while performing endotracheal intubation, tracheostomy tube maintenance, and suctioning. The RRT is also skilled in arterial punctures for blood gas analysis, electrocardiograms, and cardiac stress testing.
The RRT’s actions are guided by ethical standards, compassion, and respect for each patient’s dignity and unique attributes. Clear communication with patients, families, visitors, physicians, leadership, and colleagues is paramount to maintaining patient safety and achieving top-tier results in patient experience and quality care. The RRT practices within the scope of their license, adhering to hospital policies, regulatory requirements, and professional standards.
The RRT is expected to work efficiently and maintain personal accountability, contributing to a positive work environment and ensuring optimal patient outcomes through their collaboration with the healthcare team. Emergency responses, high patient care standards, and delivering care with empathy and respect for individuals in times of crisis are essential components of this role.
Compensation for this position is based on education, experience, certification, and internal equity. Hiring compensation starts at $30.96 per hour.
The Perks and Benefits
- Collaborative Environment : Work with a dedicated team of healthcare professionals committed to high-quality care.
- Professional Development : Access ongoing training, career advancement opportunities, and tuition reimbursement, along with participation in our progressive Career Pathways Program.
- Impactful Work : Contribute directly to improving patient outcomes and ensuring patient safety.
- Location Perks : Enjoy life in Boone, North Carolina, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor activities like biking, hiking, kayaking, skiing, and more await. Enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
- Top-Tier Community : Boone boasts a top-rated public school system and is home to Appalachian State University. Recognized by Forbes and Southern Living, Boone is perfect for families, professionals, and retirees.
- Compensation : Starting at $30.96 per hour, depending on experience. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment. This position is non-exempt.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package : Includes health, dental, and vision insurance, HSA, supplemental insurance, student loan refinancing benefits, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, and more.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) : Front-loaded for the first year, with accrual beginning after the first year of employment. Cash-out options available.
- Paid Parental Leave : Two weeks of paid leave for qualifying employees within the first six months after the birth or adoption of a child.
- Employee Wellness Program : "Love Your Life" program offering health screening incentives and wellness activities for employees.
- Employee-to-Employee (E2E) Program : Financial assistance for coworkers experiencing unexpected hardships.
- Additional Employee Perks : Discounts for attractions like Dollywood, Biltmore, and Tweetsie Railroad (subject to change).
Key Responsibilities
Administer respiratory care to critically ill or injured patients, managing airway procedures, lung expansion therapy, and oxygen therapy.Perform diagnostic procedures such as arterial blood gas analysis, electrocardiograms, and cardiac stress testing.Provide ventilation management and troubleshoot related equipment in intensive care settings.Ensure clear communication with patients and families, especially during times of crisis, providing compassionate care.Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, anesthesiologists, and specialists, to ensure comprehensive care.Demonstrate respect for each patient's dignity, tailoring care to individual needs.Ensure safe, high-quality care by adhering to established hospital protocols, ethical standards, and best practices.Respond to emergencies and significant changes in patient condition with urgency and precision.Contribute to a positive work environment by maintaining effective relationships with colleagues and leadership.Position Requirements
Minimum Education
Graduate of an accredited Respiratory Therapy program.Experience
Previous experience in an acute care setting is preferred.One year of prior experience in a similar role is preferred.Required Registration / License / Certification
Registry with the NBRC or registry-eligible per NBRC standards.Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association required at the time of hire.Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certifications must be obtained within one year of hire.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Successful completion of training modules for respiratory therapies, including endotracheal intubation, pulmonary function testing, and electrocardiograms during the probationary period.Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, staff, and physicians in both verbal and non-verbal ways.Competency in delivering safe and effective care within the legal scope of practice and hospital policies.Demonstrated exceptional customer service to patients, families, and colleagues.Familiarity with the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.Physical Demands
Ability to lift, position, and transfer patients up to and greater than 50 pounds.Prolonged standing, walking, sitting, and movement may be required, including bending, squatting, twisting, and turning.Requires manual dexterity for tasks requiring fine motor skills.Exposure to vibration, cramped spaces, and continuous hand, finger, and wrist repetition.Ability to see clearly at distances of 20 inches or less.Exposure to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation (x-ray and microwave) on occasion.Working Conditions
Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and bodily fluids.Frequent exposure to electrical and mechanical hazards, chemicals, and potentially unpleasant odors.Subject to irregular work hours, including day, evening, night shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is a leader in healthcare in the High Country, comprising three hospitals, 13 medical practices, and other healthcare services. We are committed to improving the health and quality of life in the High Country and enhancing the lives of our patients.
About UNC Health
UNC Health is part of the University of North Carolina system, with a network of 14 hospitals and over 500 clinics. We aim to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians while advancing the mission of the UNC School of Medicine. Over the last three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated care. Our hospitals are recognized for their excellence in patient care, safety, and experience.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNC Health Appalachian values diversity and seeks a workforce that reflects diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We encourage applicants from all experiences and backgrounds. Our hiring process is inclusive, with accommodations provided as needed. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks and drug screening. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.
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