Non-Registered Respiratory Therapist (Student)

The Respiratory Therapist (NR) works under the supervision of the Director, Assistant Director, and Licensed Respiratory Therapist. The Respiratory Therapist (NR) assumes responsibility for caring for and completing tasks that contribute to high quality, safe and effective care. The therapist will execute protocols, administer respiratory therapies, and educate patients and families about conditions and treatments.

• Evaluates and assesses patient’s respiratory needs, consulting with the supervisor/respiratory therapist to make recommendations.
• Administers medications and treatments based on patient outcomes, under appropriate supervision.
• Delivers and assesses patient response to ordered therapy.
• Monitors, records and communicates patients condition and response to stimuli.
• Provides patient education for disease, medications and treatment.
• Accurately documents therapy and medication administered, including pre and post assessment of therapy, diagnostic testing results, patient interventions and physician communications per Respiratory Standard.
• Assures the accuracy of patient charges by correct documentation of therapy and medications.
• Assists with equipment care and maintenance, cleaning and disinfection/sterilization, reassembly, and functional testing.
• Other duties as assigned

Education

• H.S. Diploma - Required
• Actively attending an accredited Respiratory Therapy training program. - Required

Work Experience

• One-month department orientation - Required

Licenses and Certifications

• Must be actively enrolled in an accredited respiratory therapy program and have completed their first clinical rotation in that program. - Required Upon Hire
• Respiratory Therapist (NR) Education Permit - From the state of Missouri - Required within 30 Days

Travel Requirements

• Must be able to travel between various system facilities and off-site locations as needed. - Required

Skills and Abilities

Essential Technical/Motor Skills

• Detailed knowledge of Respiratory therapy equipment and procedures.
• Good working knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medications and general nursing.
• Detailed knowledge of specialized equipment and troubleshooting.
• Good mechanical skills in working with equipment.
• Computer skills and knowledge.

Interpersonal Skills

• Communicates/interacts with physicians, patient, family, nursing and other departments.
• Must work well as a team member.

Essential Physical Requirements

• High level of manual dexterity and able to lift 40 pounds and push 250 pounds.
• Hearing, speech, and vision must be adequate to perform essential function of the job.
• Walking, restraining, standing and kneeling.

Essential Mental Abilities

• Must be at a high level to perform essential function of the job.
• Explain procedures, evaluate patient’s condition and take immediate action.

Essential Sensory Requirements

• Hearing, speech and vision must be adequate to perform essential function of the job.

Exposure to Hazards

• Exposure to blood, body fluid, needle sticks and hazardous materials.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Employee must demonstrate and maintain current knowledge and skill in providing appropriate care for patients in all age groups.