Respiratory Therapist Extern PRN

HCA Healthcare • Largo, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Respiratory Therapy Extern assists with patient care across common respiratory care modalities under the supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist. The extern supports staff by caring for patients, maintaining patient records, and ensuring respiratory care equipment operates properly, consistent with documented education, demonstrated competencies, applicable laws and regulations, and institutional guidelines. The role is intended for someone currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited Respiratory Therapy program. Higher-level procedures may be performed after competency is achieved.

The extern gathers information for basic patient assessments and non-invasive respiratory care activities, sets up and operates equipment and medical gas for routine respiratory care, monitors patients’ physiological responses, and consults a preceptor or shift supervisor about changes. The role also includes administering respiratory interventions for non-critical patients, educating patients and representatives, participating in emergency care within the scope of BLS certification and demonstrated competency, maintaining equipment and supplies, documenting care, and keeping the work environment clean, organized, and safe.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
• Basic Cardiac Life Support must be obtained within 30 days of employment start date.

Responsibilities

• Gather patient information for basic patient assessments and non-invasive respiratory care activities under the supervision of a licensed Respiratory Therapist.
• Set up and operate respiratory care equipment, medical gas, and disposable medical products for routine care according to treatment parameters.
• Monitor physiological responses to therapy, including vital signs, pulse oximetry, and auscultation, and consult the preceptor or shift supervisor about changes.
• Administer respiratory interventions and oximetry evaluations, and complete assigned care activities for non-critical patients in accordance with regulations, demonstrated competency, and organizational policy.
• Teach and demonstrate respiratory care activities to patients and their representatives.
• Participate in emergency care and resuscitation efforts within the scope of BLS certification and demonstrated competency.
• Request assistance or guidance as needed to maintain safe, quality care.
• Disassemble, clean, assemble, and test respiratory equipment according to department policies and procedures.
• Document pertinent information in the patient’s medical record after completing services.
• Maintain an adequate inventory of oxygen gas cylinders in the department and patient care areas.
• Inventory and replenish respiratory care supplies in designated areas.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned and adhere to the Code of Conduct and Mission and Value Statement.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, behavioral health, and telemedicine benefits.
• Wellbeing support, including free counseling and referral services.
• Time-away programs including paid time off, paid family leave, disability coverage, and leaves of absence.
• Savings and retirement resources, including a 401(k) plan with a 100% match on 3% to 9% of pay based on years of service, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and financial wellbeing resources.
• Education support including tuition assistance, student loan assistance, certification support, dependent scholarships, and a partnership with Galen College of Nursing.
• Fertility and family-building benefits and adoption assistance.
• Life insurance and supplemental health protection plans.
• Auto and home insurance, legal counseling, identity theft protection, and consumer discounts.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed