Respiratory Assistant

Responsibilities

• Routine airway assessment and stock of bedside emergency equipment for patients with a tracheostomy tube.
• Routine assessment and application of monitoring and recording devices used to monitor patient’s oxygen saturation as well as carbon dioxide level.
• Proper documentation of administered services in the patient’s electronic record.
• Following manufacturers, respiratory department and infection control guidelines, replace patient disposable bedside equipment.
• Stock and assess department equipment needs and communicate to the designated staff member items for reordering.
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned following proper training by department personnel.
• For 2nd year students and new graduates: perform routine non-medication delivery respiratory therapy procedures including bronchial hygiene (suctioning), airway clearance therapy (CPT and Vest Application), and hyperinflation therapy (Cough Assist Application).
• Administration of medications (oxygen or nebulized medications) may be performed under the supervision of another respiratory therapist.
• Following manufacturer, respiratory department and infection control guidelines to replace and label patient disposable equipment.
• Reports directly to the Respiratory Manager.

Requirements

• First or second year student in an approved and accredited Respiratory Care Program with evidence of continued enrollment.
• Will accept newly graduated students from an approved and accredited Respiratory Care Program awaiting credentials; new grad students are expected to obtain credentials within 1 year of graduation date.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) - American Heart Association.
• Must demonstrate accurate and effective communication and documentation both verbally, in writing as well as appropriate technical skills.

Working Conditions

Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature; exposure to moderately adverse working conditions in performing certain patient care activities; occasional exposure to infectious diseases when working with patients.