Respiratory Therapy Extern - Contingent Rotating Shift

Respiratory Therapy Extern

A Respiratory Therapy Extern is defined as a person who is a full-time student in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS, and works at the hospital in addition to their clinical studies. Under supervision of Registered Respiratory Therapists, the extern performs basic tasks, which have been learned in class and practiced in the School Laboratory setting. These tasks have also been practiced with demonstrated competency during clinical rotations at area hospitals. The extern follows all HFH Departmental Policies and Procedures and performs tasks only after successful passing of theoretical tests and practical competencies, administered by HFH Departmental leadership. As the externs progress in knowledge and experience, their job scope widens, as they demonstrate more and more skills and proficiencies.

Principal duties and responsibilities include:

• Performs patient assessment, delivers basic Oxygen and aerosolized medication therapy.
• Performs CPR, Whole Blood analysis, Sputum induction and other basic diagnostic tests, as assigned.
• Distributes respiratory supplies. Washes, cleans and disinfects soiled medical equipment. Tests and assembles various life-support, diagnostic, monitoring and therapy equipment.
• Adequately documents delivered patient care and all other assigned tasks.
• Functions as a team member in care of patients.
• Communicates with coworkers, and other professionals, including physicians and nurses as needed to assist with quality patient care.
• Maintains high standards of clinical excellence, according to Departmental policies.
• Maintains clinical productivity standards.
• Maintains technical clinical expertise through educational activities.
• Maintains awareness of patient safety issues within the clinic and in the use of equipment.
• Maintains patient confidentiality according to HFHS HIPAA policies.

Education/experience required includes:

Full-time student in good standing in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS. Extending their expected graduation date, due to failing grades or dropping out of a Respiratory Therapy program is a condition for automatic termination as a Respiratory Therapy Extern. After graduation, the extern may apply for employment as a respiratory therapist and may be hired, based on meeting the educational and experience criteria, as well as availability of position openings for the Registered Respiratory Therapist job description. In either case, their employment as a Respiratory Extern will cease after graduation. Successful completion of academic and clinical HFH competencies, specific for each task.