ICU Respiratory Therapist – Job Description

Job Title

Respiratory Therapist – Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

Department

Critical Care / Adult ICU / [Specify Unit]

Reports To

ICU Nurse Manager / Director of Respiratory Therapy

Job Summary

The ICU Respiratory Therapist provides advanced respiratory care to critically ill patients, including mechanical ventilation, airway management, ECMO support, and emergency interventions. Works collaboratively with intensivists, nurses, and perfusionists to ensure optimal oxygenation and ventilation.

Key Responsibilities

Mechanical Ventilation

Initiate, monitor, and adjust invasive/non-invasive ventilators.

Implement lung-protective strategies and weaning protocols.

Troubleshoot ventilator alarms and patient–ventilator asynchrony.

Airway Management

Assist with intubation, extubation, tracheostomy care, and bronchoscopy.

Perform suctioning, humidification, and secretion clearance.

Diagnostics & Monitoring

Obtain and interpret ABGs/VBGs, capnography, and oxygenation indices.

Document ventilator settings and patient responses accurately.

Therapies

Administer oxygen therapy, specialty gases (e.g., nitric oxide), aerosolized medications.

Support prone positioning and ARDS protocols.

Emergency Response

Respond to rapid response and code events; provide advanced airway and ventilation support.

Assist in safe transport of ventilated patients.

ECMO Responsibilities

Assist in initiation, monitoring, and troubleshooting of ECMO circuits under perfusionist and physician supervision.

Adjust sweep gas flow and FiO₂ settings as directed.

Monitor ABGs and collaborate on anticoagulation management.

Respond to ECMO emergencies (e.g., circuit clotting, pump failure) per protocol.

Maintain ECMO equipment readiness and participate in competency drills.

Document ECMO parameters and communicate changes promptly to the team.

Equipment & Safety

Maintain and calibrate ventilators, HFNC, NIV devices, and ECMO-related equipment.

Adhere to infection control and safety standards.

Collaboration & Education

Participate in ICU rounds; provide respiratory care recommendations.

Educate patients/families on respiratory care and post-ICU strategies.

Engage in quality improvement and protocol development.

Required Qualifications

Education: Associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy (Bachelor’s preferred).

Credentials: NBRC CRT required; RRT strongly preferred.

Certifications: BLS, ACLS (PALS/NRP if applicable).

Preferred Qualifications

RRT-ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialty).

ECMO experience or certification.

≥1–2 years ICU respiratory care experience.