Respiratory Therapist Intern

Respiratory Therapist Intern

Shannon Health – San Angelo, Texas

Position Summary

The Respiratory Therapist Intern assists the Respiratory Care team in delivering high-quality respiratory services to patients under the direct supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist. This internship provides hands-on clinical experience for students currently enrolled in an accredited Respiratory Care program and supports the development of clinical skills, patient care competencies, and professional growth within a healthcare environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist licensed Respiratory Therapists in providing respiratory care treatments and procedures.
• Observe, learn, and participate in respiratory therapy interventions under direct supervision.
• Assist with the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of respiratory care equipment.
• Monitor and document patient responses to treatments as directed.
• Support oxygen therapy, aerosol therapy, airway clearance techniques, and other respiratory care procedures within scope and training.
• Participate in patient assessments and clinical rounds as appropriate.
• Practice infection prevention and safety protocols in all patient care activities.
• Assist with cleaning, stocking, and maintaining respiratory therapy equipment and supplies.
• Accurately document care activities in the electronic medical record according to department policies.
• Communicate professionally with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Attend department meetings, educational sessions, and training opportunities.
• Demonstrate Shannon Health’s mission, vision, values, and commitment to exceptional patient care.

Qualifications

Required

• Currently enrolled in and actively attending an accredited Respiratory Care program.
• Completion of program coursework sufficient to participate in clinical respiratory care activities.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Ability to perform duties under supervision in accordance with hospital policies and applicable regulations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred

• Previous healthcare experience or clinical rotations in a hospital setting.
• Knowledge of respiratory therapy equipment and patient care practices.
• Progress toward eligibility for respiratory therapy credentialing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic understanding of respiratory therapy principles and practices.
• Ability to follow clinical instructions and departmental procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient safety.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift, move, and position equipment and supplies in accordance with department requirements.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
• Manual dexterity sufficient to operate respiratory care equipment and computer systems.

Working Conditions

• Hospital and clinical care environment.
• Exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and other healthcare-related hazards.
• May be required to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call assignments as needed.

Shannon Health Core Expectations

• Provides compassionate, patient-centered care.
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and integrity.
• Promotes a culture of safety, quality, and teamwork.
• Supports Shannon Health's commitment to excellence and community service.

Job Status: PRN / Part-Time Internship (as applicable)

Department: Respiratory Therapy

Reports To: Respiratory Therapy Manager or Designated Clinical Supervisor