Registered Respiratory Therapist at WVU Medicine - Wheeling Hospital

Role Overview

WVU Medicine is seeking a dedicated and skilled Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) to join our team at Wheeling Hospital. As an RRT, you will play a vital role in providing respiratory care to patients of all ages, from neonates to geriatrics. Your responsibilities will include evaluating patients' respiratory status, administering prescribed therapies, managing mechanical ventilation, and educating patients and families on respiratory disease management.

You will work collaboratively with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care. Your expertise in respiratory therapy will be essential in helping patients breathe easier and improve their overall health and well-being.

A Day in the Life of an RRT

Here's a glimpse into a typical day for a Registered Respiratory Therapist at WVU Medicine - Wheeling Hospital:

• Morning: Arrive at the hospital and receive handoff from the previous shift. Review patient charts and assess respiratory status.
• Assessments: Conduct patient assessments, including auscultation of breath sounds, arterial blood gas analysis, and pulmonary function testing.
• Treatment: Administer respiratory medications and therapies, such as oxygen therapy, nebulizer treatments, and chest physiotherapy.
• Ventilation Management: Manage mechanical ventilation for patients in the intensive care unit and other areas of the hospital.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with physicians and nurses to develop and implement patient care plans.
• Education: Educate patients and families on respiratory disease management, including proper use of medications and breathing techniques.
• Emergency Response: Respond to respiratory emergencies, such as code blues and rapid response calls.
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure that respiratory equipment is properly maintained and functioning correctly.
• Documentation: Document patient care activities accurately and completely in the electronic health record.
• Afternoon: Continue providing respiratory care to patients, monitor their progress, and adjust therapies as needed. Participate in interdisciplinary rounds and contribute to patient care conferences.

Why Wheeling, West Virginia?

Wheeling, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Located in the scenic Ohio River Valley, Wheeling boasts a rich history, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Here are some reasons why you'll love living and working in Wheeling:

• Affordable Cost of Living: Wheeling offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States.
• Friendly Community: Wheeling is known for its friendly and welcoming residents.
• Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in the nearby state parks and recreational areas.
• Arts and Culture: Explore Wheeling's historic architecture, art galleries, and theaters.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Wheeling offers excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.
• Proximity to Major Cities: Wheeling is within driving distance of major cities such as Pittsburgh, Columbus, and Cleveland.

Career Path for Respiratory Therapists at WVU Medicine

WVU Medicine is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. As a Registered Respiratory Therapist at Wheeling Hospital, you can advance your career through:

• Clinical Ladder: Progress through the clinical ladder by demonstrating expertise in respiratory therapy and contributing to patient care and organizational goals.
• Specialty Certifications: Obtain specialty certifications in areas such as neonatal/pediatric respiratory care, critical care, or pulmonary function testing.
• Leadership Roles: Advance into leadership positions such as lead respiratory therapist, supervisor, or manager.
• Education and Training: Participate in continuing education programs and training opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Mentorship: Mentor and train new respiratory therapists.

Salary and Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package to its employees, including:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holiday schedule.
• Retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Life insurance and disability benefits.
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support.
• Tuition reimbursement program for continuing education.
• Professional development opportunities and career advancement potential.
• Employee discount programs for various goods and services.
• Wellness programs and resources to promote employee health and well-being.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a culture of excellence, teamwork, and patient-centered care. We value our employees and strive to provide a supportive and rewarding work environment.

Here are some aspects of the WVU Medicine culture:

• Patient-Centered Care: We are committed to providing the highest quality care to our patients and their families.
• Teamwork: We work collaboratively as a team to achieve our goals.
• Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity.
• Integrity: We act with integrity and honesty in all that we do.
• Innovation: We embrace innovation and strive to improve our processes and services.
• Learning: We are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

How to Apply

To apply for the Registered Respiratory Therapist position at WVU Medicine - Wheeling Hospital, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the required qualifications for this position?

The required qualifications include licensure as a Respiratory Therapist in West Virginia (LRTC or LRTR), Maryland, Ohio, or Pennsylvania, and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire. One year of respiratory therapist experience is also required.

2. What are the preferred qualifications for this position?

The preferred qualifications include Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential and two years of respiratory therapist experience.

3. What are the typical duties and responsibilities of an RRT at Wheeling Hospital?

Typical duties include performing therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, managing mechanical ventilation, educating patients and families, and participating in quality assurance activities.

4. What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience. Please see the salary section above for an estimated range.

5. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer to its employees?

WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement.

6. What is the work environment like at Wheeling Hospital?

Wheeling Hospital offers a supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.

7. Is relocation assistance available for this position?

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

8. Is there a sign-on bonus for this position?

A sign-on bonus may be available for qualified candidates.

9. What opportunities are there for career advancement at WVU Medicine?

WVU Medicine offers a variety of career advancement opportunities, including clinical ladder programs, specialty certifications, and leadership roles.

10. How can I learn more about WVU Medicine and Wheeling Hospital?

You can visit the WVU Medicine website and the Wheeling Hospital website to learn more about our organization and our mission.