Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of advanced healthcare, the role of pulmonary rehabilitation therapists has become more critical than ever.

As medical advancements stride ahead, the demand for skilled professionals who can help manage, improve, and ensure the health of our respiratory system escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pulmonary rehabilitation therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricate realm of pulmonary rehabilitation therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pulmonary rehabilitation therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists work with patients with lung diseases and disorders, helping them to improve lung function, reduce symptom severity, and improve overall quality of life through various therapeutic techniques.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the patient’s pulmonary function, abilities, and disabilities
• Developing a comprehensive, individualized rehabilitation program for each patient
• Teaching patients about their conditions and how to use therapeutic equipment
• Guiding patients through exercises designed to improve respiratory function
• Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
• Educating patients and their families on disease management strategies, such as breathing techniques, medication usage, and lifestyle changes
• Maintaining patient records to track progress and communicate with other healthcare providers
• Staying updated with the latest research and advancements in pulmonary rehabilitation therapy
• Working closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for patients
• Ensuring safety and cleanliness of therapy equipment and area according to healthcare standards

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist to join our team.

The therapist will be responsible for assessing, planning, and implementing pulmonary rehabilitation programs for patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of pulmonary diseases and treatments, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to educate patients and their families about disease management.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate patient’s pulmonary function and health status
• Plan and implement individualized pulmonary rehabilitation programs
• Educate patients and their families about the disease and its management
• Assist patients with breathing exercises and use of respiratory equipment
• Monitor patient’s progress and adjust treatment plans as needed
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive patient care
• Follow safety guidelines and maintain patient confidentiality
• Maintain accurate patient records

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist
• Current CPR and first aid certification
• Strong understanding of pulmonary diseases and treatments
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to educate patients and their families on disease management
• Proficiency in maintaining patient records
• BS or higher in Respiratory Therapy or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist
• Work Environment: Hospital or medical clinic setting. Some travel may be required for home visits or consultations at other facilities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Rehabilitation Services or the Respiratory Therapy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $56,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Do?

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists are specialized healthcare professionals who work primarily with patients suffering from respiratory illnesses.

Their main goal is to improve the quality of life for patients who have chronic (ongoing) breathing problems.

They do this by designing and implementing therapeutic programs to help patients manage their symptoms, increase their physical stamina, and improve their overall health and well-being.

They work closely with patients, teaching them various exercises and breathing techniques to help manage their condition.

They also educate patients about their illness and how to use various medical devices like inhalers and oxygen machines.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, which may include physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers.

They communicate regularly with these professionals, discussing patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.

In addition to providing direct patient care, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists may also conduct research, contribute to patient education materials, and participate in community awareness programs about respiratory health.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Qualifications and Skills

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists, also known as respiratory therapists, need a mix of specific medical skills, soft skills, and physical stamina to carry out their job efficiently, including:

• Medical knowledge and technical skills to understand, diagnose, and treat a wide range of respiratory diseases and conditions.
• Communication skills to clearly explain treatments, procedures, and medical conditions to patients and their families.
• Interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with patients, providing emotional support and reassurance during stressful medical situations.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and perform physically demanding procedures such as chest physiotherapy.
• Attention to detail to monitor and record the progress of patients, ensuring accuracy in the administration of treatments and medications.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly assess patients and make crucial decisions about their care.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a healthcare team, including physicians, nurses, and other therapists, to provide comprehensive patient care.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists typically have completed a bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy, or a similar field, along with a period of clinical experience.

This clinical experience is often gained through internships or trainee positions in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or related healthcare facilities.

After graduation, candidates must obtain their certification as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) and may also need to be licensed depending on the state they intend to practice in.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience are usually well-versed in pulmonary diagnostic testing, patient assessment, and the development and implementation of therapeutic plans.

They may have gained this experience in hospitals, home health settings, or outpatient clinics.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of advanced therapeutic procedures and have developed their skills in patient education, counseling, and long-term management of chronic pulmonary diseases.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists with more than 5 years of experience may have taken on supervisory roles, overseeing teams of therapists, coordinating care plans, and facilitating communication between patients, families, and healthcare teams.

These professionals may also have pursued further specializations and certifications, such as becoming a Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT).

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist, one typically needs to earn a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field.

During the degree, students learn about respiratory therapy through both theoretical and practical applications.

They get trained on how to evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders.

Upon graduation, it is mandatory to become licensed as a respiratory therapist.

Most states require respiratory therapists to pass a National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to obtain licensure.

Many Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists also pursue a master’s degree in respiratory care or a related healthcare field.

This advanced training equips them with leadership skills and a deeper understanding of respiratory care.

Specialized certifications such as the Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist (CPFT) or the Registered Pulmonary Function Technologist (RPFT) can further validate a therapist’s skills and knowledge in the field of pulmonary rehabilitation.

Continuing education is crucial for Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists due to constantly evolving medical technology and treatments.

Therefore, participating in workshops, webinars, and professional development courses is highly beneficial.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Salary Expectations

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist earns an average salary of $76,700 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as the therapist’s years of experience, level of education, geographical location, and the size and type of their employer.

 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist need?

A Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients and their families.

They need to be empathetic and patient, as they often work with individuals facing serious health conditions.

They should also have strong analytical skills to assess patient conditions and develop suitable treatment plans.

Knowledge of respiratory therapy techniques and understanding of related medical equipment is a must.

 

Do Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists need a degree?

Yes, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists need a degree.

They must have a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field, and some positions may require a master’s degree.

They must also have a license to practice as a respiratory therapist, which requires passing a national exam.

 

What should you look for in a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist resume?

Firstly, ensure that the candidate is licensed and has a degree in respiratory therapy or a related field.

Check for experience in pulmonary rehabilitation therapy, especially with patients of the same demographic that your healthcare facility serves.

Additional certifications in the field are a plus.

The resume should also demonstrate good communication skills and a patient-centric approach.

 

What qualities make a good Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist?

A good Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapist is patient, understanding, and empathetic, as they are dealing with patients who may be experiencing distress due to their health conditions.

They should have excellent communication skills to effectively explain treatment plans to patients and their families.

They also need to be detail-oriented to properly monitor and record patient progress.

 

Is it difficult to hire Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists?

The difficulty in hiring Pulmonary Rehabilitation Therapists often depends on the specific requirements of the position and the pool of available candidates.

There may be fewer professionals in this specialized field compared to more general healthcare roles, so finding a qualified candidate might take more time.

Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for growth, and a supportive work environment can help attract suitable applicants.

 

Conclusion

So, that’s the scoop.

Today, we’ve provided a clear insight into the significant role of a pulmonary rehabilitation therapist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about providing therapy.

It’s about enhancing the quality of life, one breath at a time.

With our comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation therapist job description template and real-life examples, you’re well on your way to advancing in your career.

But why stop here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your crucial next step towards creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Always remember:

Each breath you help improve is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s embark on that journey. Together.

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