Respiratory Care Extern - Respiratory - Days - PT-20

The Respiratory Care Extern provides limited operation under the supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist to assist in performing limited, low-risk respiratory therapy procedures. The Respiratory Care Extern gathers patient information, monitors and tracks all respiratory therapy activities, and updates patient medical records. The Respiratory Care Extern performs setup, cleaning, maintenance, stocking, and transporting of respiratory therapy equipment.

• Responsible for assisting Respiratory Therapists to perform limited, low-risk therapy procedures
• Assists with providing limited care to patients with acute and chronic respiratory conditions
• Uses non-exotic aerosol therapy to perform treatments or diagnostic procedures
• Performs hyperinflation and airway clearance therapy
• Monitors patients undergoing treatment, procedures, and other medical activities
• Sets up, sterilizes, and maintains respiratory therapy equipment
• Assists in cardiorespiratory arrests
• Assists the healthcare team in collecting patient data
• Interviews and examines patients to obtain clinical data
• Updates patient medical records, keeping track of all respiratory therapy activities

Education Requirements

• Required: High School or GED
• Must be enrolled as a second-year Respiratory Care Extern in an accredited respiratory care program

License or Certification Requirements

• N/A
• In support of Regulations Governing Licensure of Respiratory Care Practitioners Partial Suspension of Subchapter 9: Rule 9.9.1(1)

Experience Requirements

• Required: 0

Knowledge

• Anatomy and physiology of the human airway, lungs, and respiration cycle
• Principles of oxygen therapy
• Operation of respiratory therapy equipment

Skills

• Assessment and care of patients with cardio-pulmonary disorders
• Patient examination and evaluation
• Keep accurate records and patient charts
• Communicate effectively in oral and written form

Abilities

• Interpret physician instructions
• Use and operate equipment and instruments used in patient care
• Conduct respiratory tests and treatments
• Clean and to perform routine maintenance on equipment

Work Environment: Work is generally performed in a healthcare environment. Exposure to chemicals which may be used in patient care

Physical Demands: Ability to lift, push, pull, and position patients or equipment. Frequent reaching, sitting, walking, and standing may be required. No special coordination beyond that used for normal mobility and handling of everyday objects and materials is needed to perform the job