Registered Respiratory Therapist – PRN ✨

Location: Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital – St. Louis / Chesterfield, MO
Worker Type: PRN
Scheduled Weekly Hours: As needed

Job Summary

The Registered Respiratory Therapist provides high‑quality respiratory care to patients at Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital – St. Louis. This PRN role supports patient needs on an as‑needed basis and plays a key part in maintaining excellence in safety, clinical care, communication, and overall patient experience.

Qualifications

Required

• Education: Graduate of a CoARC‑approved Respiratory Care program
• Licensure: Active Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) license; meets all state requirements
• Certifications:
  • Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from NBRC
  • PALS required if working in the Emergency Room

Preferred

• Certification: ACLS (Acute Cardiac Life Support)

️ Responsibilities

Safety & Risk Management

• Administers medications safely and accurately
• Follows all incident reporting and MERS guidelines
• Maintains confidentiality and infection control standards
• Follows safety practices: fall precautions, restraints, patient ID, and department protocols
• Respects patient and visitor property
• Complies with hospital safety rules (fire, tornado, environmental)
• Ensures adherence to patient rights and regulatory standards

Coordination of Care & Communication

• May serve as a Preceptor, Clinical Instructor, or Resource person
• Participates in committees and quality improvement initiatives
• Provides care in assigned patient areas
• Communicates effectively to support workflow and teamwork
• Participates in physician rounds
• Resolves concerns involving patients, families, staff, or equipment
• Updates the care team on changes in patient status
• Provides accurate, organized, and confidential shift reports
• Makes sound independent decisions and communicates actions appropriately

Primary Clinical Responsibilities

• Performs respiratory care procedures within scope
• Assists physicians with diagnostic and therapeutic respiratory interventions
• Assesses patient/family needs (physical, psychosocial, spiritual)
• Documents thoroughly and accurately
• Provides patient education and resources
• Updates individualized care plans in a timely manner
• Ensures accurate patient charges
• Stays current with literature and best practices
• Prioritizes and manages time effectively
• Demonstrates flexibility with department needs

Operational Responsibilities

• Adheres to attendance, punctuality, and dress code expectations
• Reads and responds to department communications
• Attends daily huddles, meetings, and in‑services

️ Technology & Equipment Management

• Competently operates and troubleshoots respiratory equipment
• Cleans, maintains, and stocks equipment and supplies
• Assists with evaluation of new products and equipment