Respiratory Therapy Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of rapidly evolving healthcare technology, the role of respiratory therapy technicians has become more crucial than ever.

As medical advancements continue, the demand for skilled technicians who can operate, maintain, and ensure the effectiveness of respiratory therapy devices also increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a respiratory therapy technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of respiratory therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable respiratory therapy technician job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Respiratory Therapy Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Respiratory Therapy Technicians assist in providing critical care to patients suffering from a range of respiratory problems, such as asthma, emphysema, pneumonia, or COPD.

They work under the supervision of respiratory therapists to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures related to respiratory care
• Monitoring and recording the vital signs of patients undergoing respiratory treatment
• Administering prescribed respiratory therapy treatments under the direction of a respiratory therapist
• Assisting in the maintenance and operation of respiratory therapy equipment
• Setting up and operating devices such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, and aerosol generators
• Responding to emergency situations that require respiratory treatment
• Keeping detailed records of patients’ therapy, including the nature and method of treatments, and the patient’s response
• Ensuring cleanliness and sterilization of respiratory therapy equipment to maintain a safe, infection-free environment
• Communicating with patients and their families about the treatment process, helping them understand the purpose and benefits of respiratory therapy

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a certified Respiratory Therapy Technician to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of respiratory care procedures and the ability to work with patients of all ages.

Respiratory Therapy Technicians responsibilities include administering prescribed respiratory therapeutic services, aiding physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiopulmonary disorders, and providing emergency care to patients suffering from heart attacks, stroke, drowning, or shock.

 

Responsibilities

• Administer respiratory therapy treatments to patients
• Provide emergency care including artificial respiration, CPR, and assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Monitor patient’s physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, and blood chemistry changes
• Operate and maintain respiratory therapy equipment
• Document therapy provided and patient response in the patient’s medical record
• Teach, train, and supervise respiratory therapy students
• Coordinate respiratory care services with other healthcare personnel
• Participate in the development and implementation of patient care plans
• Stay up-to-date with the latest trends in respiratory therapy

 

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Respiratory Therapy or related field
• State licensure as a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
• Respiratory Therapist Certified (RTC) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential
• Experience in a clinical setting is preferred
• Strong patient care skills
• Knowledge of medical gas administration, aerosol therapy, obtaining and analyzing blood samples, and respiratory care protocols
• Strong communication skills and ability to explain treatments to patients and their families

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Respiratory Therapy Technician
• Work Environment: Hospital or other healthcare setting. May require weekend, holiday, and evening work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Respiratory Therapist or Respiratory Therapy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Respiratory Therapy Technician Do?

Respiratory Therapy Technicians, also known as Respiratory Therapists, are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing care for patients suffering from both chronic and acute respiratory diseases.

They are trained to operate, maintain, and repair the machines that deliver oxygen to patients.

These include ventilators, artificial airway devices, and other respiratory equipment that help patients breathe.

They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to create and implement treatment plans for patients with conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, or other breathing disorders.

Respiratory Therapy Technicians perform diagnostic tests such as measuring lung capacity to assess the severity of respiratory disorders.

They also educate patients and their families about their conditions and teach them how to use their treatments.

Additionally, they may provide emergency care, such as external cardiac massage, artificial respiration, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Respiratory Therapy Technicians work in a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, and patients’ homes.

They often work shifts that include nights and weekends, and may be on call for emergencies.

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Qualifications and Skills

Respiratory Therapy Technicians should possess a combination of specific skills and qualifications to excel in their roles, including:

• Strong knowledge of respiratory care procedures, techniques, and equipment to aid in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases.
• Excellent patient care skills to interact with patients of all ages and backgrounds, providing comfort and reassurance during stressful procedures.
• Attention to detail to accurately monitor and record patient data such as lung capacity, blood oxygen levels, and breathing patterns.
• Interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with healthcare professionals, patients, and their families, explaining complex respiratory procedures in a way that can be easily understood.
• Problem-solving skills to analyze patient conditions and determine the most appropriate treatment method.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to handle and operate respiratory care equipment, as well as stand or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a high-stress environment, maintaining composure and professionalism even during emergency situations.

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Experience Requirements

Respiratory Therapy Technicians are usually required to have an Associate’s degree or completion of a certificate program in respiratory therapy, where they gain both theoretical and practical experience.

During their education, students are often required to complete clinical rotations, which provide them with hands-on experience in the field under the supervision of experienced professionals.

This kind of experience helps them to understand the practical aspects of their job role.

For entry-level positions, employers generally require at least 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be gained through internships or part-time roles in the field.

Respiratory Therapy Technicians with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of respiratory equipment, patient assessment, and care plan administration.

They may have also developed specializations, such as neonatal or pediatric care, and are often capable of handling more complex cases.

Those with over 5 years of experience are likely to have some leadership or supervisory experience and could be considered for roles such as lead technician or department manager.

These professionals have typically honed their skills in patient care and can effectively train and guide less-experienced technicians.

In addition to the work experience, Respiratory Therapy Technicians are also usually required to maintain a valid license and might need to hold certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care or similar organization.

Ongoing professional development or additional certifications may also be required to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Education and Training Requirements

Respiratory Therapy Technicians typically require an associate degree in respiratory therapy or a related healthcare field.

These programs include both classroom and clinical training, covering subjects such as cardiopulmonary pharmacology, medical gas administration, patient assessment, and mechanical ventilation.

Furthermore, all states except Alaska require respiratory therapists to be licensed.

To obtain this license, candidates must have graduated from an accredited respiratory therapy program and pass a national exam.

In addition to these basic requirements, many technicians choose to pursue additional certifications to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the field.

For example, the National Board for Respiratory Care offers several levels of certification, including the Certified Respiratory Therapist and Registered Respiratory Therapist credentials.

Continuing education is also important in this field, as new treatment methods and technologies are constantly being developed.

Thus, respiratory therapy technicians must be committed to lifelong learning and professional development.

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Salary Expectations

A Respiratory Therapy Technician can expect to earn an average salary of $47,730 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, level of education, location, and the specific employer.

 

Respiratory Therapy Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Respiratory Therapy Technician need?

Respiratory Therapy Technicians need a combination of technical and soft skills.

They need technical knowledge about respiratory care and the medical equipment used in this field.

Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are also important as they often work with critically ill patients.

Soft skills such as compassion, patience, and excellent communication skills are equally crucial for their day-to-day interactions with patients and healthcare teams.

 

Do Respiratory Therapy Technicians need a degree?

Yes, Respiratory Therapy Technicians typically require at least an Associate’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field.

Some positions may require a Bachelor’s degree.

Additionally, all states except Alaska require respiratory therapists to be licensed, and certification is often preferred or required by employers.

 

What should you look for in a Respiratory Therapy Technician resume?

Firstly, ensure they have the required educational qualifications and license.

Look for their experience in respiratory therapy, particularly in the kind of setting your institution provides, be it a hospital, long-term care facility or a home healthcare setting.

Check for their technical skills in using and maintaining respiratory therapy equipment, and experience with different patient age groups, from neonatal to geriatric patients.

 

What qualities make a good Respiratory Therapy Technician?

A good Respiratory Therapy Technician is compassionate, has excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and can work well in a team.

They should be detail-oriented and adept at handling emergency situations.

They should also have a deep understanding of respiratory care and the ability to educate patients and families about it.

Continuous learning is also key, as they should keep up-to-date with advancements in respiratory care technology and treatment methods.

 

What are the daily duties of a Respiratory Therapy Technician?

Typical duties of a Respiratory Therapy Technician include assessing patients’ breathing conditions, developing treatment plans, administering treatment and monitoring patients’ progress.

They may also be responsible for maintaining and operating respiratory therapy equipment, educating patients and families about respiratory diseases and treatments, and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care.

In emergency situations, they may perform resuscitation procedures.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the essential details of what it truly entails to be a respiratory therapy technician.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering treatments.

It’s about helping patients breathe easier, one respiratory therapy session at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive respiratory therapy technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your next career leap.

But why limit your exploration here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your step forward in creating laser-precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every therapy session is a part of a larger journey towards recovery.

Let’s help patients breathe easier. Together.

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