RESPIRATORY THERAPY ASSISTANT

Overview

Under supervision, performs work by aiding the Respiratory Therapists and various customers of the department.

Responsibilities

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (*Essential Functions)

Receives work assignments, instructions and directions regarding specific tasks to perform from the respiratory therapy staff.

Cleans, disinfects and sterilizes non-disposable equipment used in administration of respiratory therapy, preparing such for next use, reports worn parts, loose connections and items needing repair to the supervisor.

Assists the respiratory therapy staff with the setup of equipment, supplies, and medical gases as ordered.

Turns on equipment, observing gauges measuring pressure, rate of flow and continuity to test equipment, reports malfunctions to the supervisor or respiratory therapist immediately upon observation if in use on patient or marking equipment as "in need of service with date & time" removing from use by therapists.

Gathers and delivers equipment and supplies to specified hospital locations.

Orders, stocks and inventories Respiratory care supply room and ensures floor supply rooms are stocked and clean, reports shortages in inventory and inability to order supplies to charge therapist or supervisor.

Assists respiratory therapist with patient discharge and other assigned duties.

Performs other duties as needed and/or assigned.

Qualifications

Job Specific (Minimum Qualiifications)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Must demonstrate high level of discretion, integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism in activities.

• Participates in continuing education programs as applicable or assigned by leader, department meetings.

• Ability to present in pleasant professional manner for effective communications.

• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

• Must enroll or be enrolled in a Respiratory Therapy program within 3 months of employment.

Education

High School Diploma/GED Equivalent is Required.

Experience

1 year experience in Respiratory Therapy is Preferred.

Certifications and Licensures

CPR - BLS is Required

Model of Care and Conduct

Methodist Hospitals strives for excellence and insists on high standards of conduct and performance in everything we do. Our Model of Care and Conduct is designed to create a positive work environment which Methodist desires for all employees. This is foundational to the high level of patient, family and physician satisfaction we strive for each day. As part of all position's duties at Methodist Hospitals, all employees are responsible to conduct themselves in accordance with the Model of Care and Conduct and will be evaluated according to these standards of behavior.