STUDENT RESPIRATORY THERAPY ASSISTANT - RESPIRATORY SERVICES

Status: PRN - As Needed

Shift: Varies as needed.

Exempt: No

Summary:

The Student Respiratory Therapy Assistant (SRTA) participates in the cleaning of respiratory equipment, the stocking of respiratory supplies, and the observation of LRTs providing respiratory care to patients. A Licensed Respiratory Therapist (LRT) will be assigned with SRTA on each shift and be readily available at all times to provide advice, instruction, and assistance regarding equipment and or supplies. The SRTA will not perform any invasive procedure or any life sustaining care, therapeutic, diagnostic, or palliative procedures except for basic CPR (BLS) during a code situation under the direct supervision and in the physical presence of an LRT or Physician. The SRTA may seek educational opportunities outside of this assignment under the direct supervision of other LRT's. The responsibilities below will be performed in a manner which will promote and maintain a positive community and professional image for the department and hospital. The responsibilities will be performed with an attitude supportive to change. All employees will be expected to contribute to and participate, when requested, in the Health System's Quality Improvement Program. The SRTA must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary prior to performing duties listed below. Each of the responsibilities will be accomplished in a safe manner that will prevent injury to the employee or others while following North Oaks Health System's compliance programs and all federal and state regulatory guidelines.

Other information:

Other Information

Experience, Education Requirements

1. High School diploma or equivalent.

2. Completed BLS certification through American Heart Association.

3. Applicant must be currently enrolled in good standing in an accredited Respiratory Care Program and completed at least one semester in the program.

Working Conditions

1. This job has a moderate degree of complexity and requires the ability to work at a fast pace in order to complete assignments or provide emergency care. There is a moderate degree of stress.

2. This job has a moderate to high risk of being exposed to contagious diseases and biohazardous materials. There is a small to moderate risk of being exposed to hazardous chemicals

3. Must be able to stand for long periods of time, lifting up to 100 pounds, requires routinely bending, stooping, pushing and pulling. Must demonstrate appropriate body mechanics in daily activities.

Physical Effort Required:

Strength: Medium Push: Occasionally Pull: Occasionally Carry: Occasionally Lift: Occasionally Sit: Occasionally Stand: Constantly Walk: Constantly

Responsibilities:

Responsibilities

Performed according to hospital and department policy and procedures:

• Performs 12 lead EKG's
• Cleans and disinfects patient equipment, performs pre-use checks and sets up equipment ensuring availability for patient use.
• Assists in maintaining inventory in main decontamination and supply room, maintains stock in the respiratory supply areas throughout the facility and assists in conservation of supplies and eliminating waste.
• Assists transporting Cardiopulmonary Rehab patients to and from registration area as needed.
• Assists with 6-minute walks.

CPR (BLS) as described above

• Follows all North Oaks Health Systems and Respiratory Care Department infection prevention policies and guidelines.
• Respond to all Cardiopulmonary arrests and provide CPR if necessary.
• Reports equipment issues via AYS and notifies Charge Therapist, Dept. Manager, and/or Department Director.
• Demonstrates ability to perform duties without immediate supervision.
• Follows all North Oaks Health Systems and Respiratory Care Department infection prevention policies and guidelines.
• Assists in quality assurance through reporting of occurrences and incident according to established policies and procedures.
• Participates in professional development through attendance of education programs and attends annual competency, scheduled department meetings and hospital in-services.
• Safeguards and preserves confidentiality of patient information.
• SKILLS:
• Input data into computer programs
• Good interpersonal/human relations skills
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Good time management/prioritization skill
• Attention to detail

Statement: The purpose of this position is to recruit students for professional employment upon graduation and licensure. If the student does not intend to pursue employment with North Oaks as a Respiratory Therapist, or has not submitted an application for an appropriate licensed position by the graduation date, employment will end on the date of graduation.