Respiratory Therapist

Avera Health is seeking a compassionate and skilled Respiratory Therapist to join our Healthcare & Medical Services team within our hospital and clinic network. In this role, you will provide high‑quality respiratory care to patients of all ages, supporting those with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary conditions in inpatient, emergency, intensive care, and outpatient settings. Working collaboratively with physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals, you will perform respiratory assessments, develop and implement care plans, and deliver evidence‑based therapies that align with Avera Health’s mission of compassion, hospitality, and stewardship. As a Respiratory Therapist at Avera Health, you will administer and monitor oxygen therapy, aerosol and nebulizer treatments, chest physiotherapy, and advanced airway management procedures in accordance with provider orders and established protocols. You will set up, operate, and troubleshoot ventilators and other respiratory equipment, adjusting parameters based on patient condition and response. You will perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as arterial blood gas sampling and analysis, pulmonary function testing, and pulse oximetry monitoring, carefully documenting results and communicating critical findings to the clinical team. You will be responsible for responding promptly to respiratory emergencies, including rapid response and code situations, assisting with intubations, airway stabilization, and resuscitation efforts. You will evaluate patients’ respiratory status using objective data and clinical judgment, updating care plans and making recommendations to providers to optimize outcomes. Education is a key part of this role—you will instruct patients and families on the proper use of inhalers, nebulizers, oxygen equipment, and home respiratory therapies, reinforcing disease management strategies for conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. Within Avera Health’s collaborative culture, you will participate in interdisciplinary rounds, contribute to discharge planning related to respiratory care, and support quality improvement and patient safety initiatives. You will ensure that all care is provided in compliance with hospital policies, professional standards, and regulatory requirements, maintaining accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record. You will also assist in the orientation and mentoring of new staff and respiratory students as needed, modeling professional behavior and a strong commitment to patient‑centered care. Avera Health offers a supportive environment where Respiratory Therapists can grow professionally through continuing education, specialty training, and opportunities to engage in evidence‑based practice projects. In this role, you will be valued as an integral member of a regional health system dedicated to improving patient outcomes and serving communities across the Upper Midwest with respect and dignity. If you are a licensed Respiratory Therapist who thrives in a fast‑paced clinical environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional respiratory care, Avera Health invites you to bring your expertise and compassion to our team.