Respiratory Care Assistant

Employment Type: Part time, rotating shift

About the Role

Performs basic respiratory therapy procedures under the supervision of a licensed respiratory therapist in accordance with evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, and departmental and hospital policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic respiratory therapy procedures, including but not limited to:
  • Oxygen and aerosol therapy (with and without medication)
  • Hyperinflation therapy
  • Incentive spirometry
  • Airway care and suctioning
  • Chest physiotherapy
  • EKG
• Perform diagnostic procedures, including but not limited to:
  • Oximetry and capnography
  • Arterial puncture
  • Pulmonary function testing
• Participate in monitoring of CPAP, BiPAP, and mechanical ventilators.
• Consult with and assist physicians and nurses to develop and implement respiratory care plans, facilitating physician orders.
• Assess patients and evaluate the appropriateness and quality of respiratory care, making necessary modifications to care plans and equipment use.
• Use a computer for documentation and other relevant activities.

Requirements

• Enrolled in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program with current participation in respiratory classes and clinical rotations.
• Knowledge of basic respiratory therapy procedures and documented competency validation.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and function in an environment with multiple stress factors.
• Adaptability to performing under stress in emergent, critical, or unusual situations.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise professional judgment when dealing with patients, physicians, and other healthcare team members.

Qualifications

• Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training required within 6 months of hire and every 3 years thereafter.
• Basic Life Support Certification (BLS) required within 30 days of hire and every 2 years thereafter.