Student Respiratory Therapist

About the role

We are seeking a Student Respiratory Therapist (Student RT) to work under the direct supervision of a Respiratory Therapist. This role focuses on learning and assisting with a range of respiratory care procedures and treatments, providing hands-on experience while maintaining patient safety. Typically, the Student RT is enrolled in a respiratory therapy program and participates in clinical rotations within the hospital as part of their education. This position is on a per diem basis, meaning PD/PRN as needed.

Responsibilities

• Administer respiratory treatments such as oxygen therapy, aerosol medications, chest physiotherapy or other related respiratory tasks
• Oxygen Therapy: administer oxygen to patients with respiratory distress or low oxygen levels
• Aerosol Medications: deliver medications via nebulizers or inhalers to help treat conditions like asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
• Chest Physiotherapy: assist in techniques to help patients clear mucus from their lungs
• Monitor patients' respiratory rates, oxygen levels (using pulse oximeters), and breathing patterns
• Assist in the drawing and analyzing of blood samples to assess levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood – Arterial Blood Gases (ABG)
• Observe and adjust mechanical ventilators for patients who are unable to breathe independently, ensuring settings are appropriate based on the patient's condition
• Enhance skills on initial assessments of patients with breathing problems, which includes listening to lung sounds and assessing symptoms; report findings to supervising RTs or doctors to adjust treatment plans as needed
• Assist with respiratory procedures, for example:
  • Intubation and Extubation: assist in the placement or removal of endotracheal tubes, which help patients breathe in critical situations
  • Suctioning: help to remove secretions from a patient's airway to maintain a clear passage for breathing

Qualifications

• Must be approved with State Respiratory Therapy board to work as a Student Respiratory Therapist
• Current BLS (AHA) certificate upon hire and maintain current
• At the minimum, the student must be enrolled in an accredited respiratory program and completed first semester of clinical rotations
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Will not be able to work as a Student Respiratory Therapist if for any reason may become not eligible for an accredited respiratory therapy program

Additional Qualifications That Are a Plus

• Preferred, is a student who has completed more than one semester and/or other medical experience