Respiratory Therapy Apprentice

Community Health Systems, Inc.; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Community Health Systems, Inc. is seeking a Respiratory Therapy Technician - Non-Certified to support basic respiratory care under supervision in a clinical setting.

You will assist therapists with treatments, monitor patients, and help maintain equipment, while upholding infection control and safety standards. The role requires following department protocols and documenting patient responses, with opportunities to gain experience in respiratory care procedures and patient education.

Qualifications

• Completion of a Respiratory Therapy Technician training program or coursework in a related healthcare field preferred.
• 0-1 years of experience in respiratory care or a related field preferred.
• Experience in respiratory therapy, pulmonary function testing, or oxygen therapy support preferred.
• Basic understanding of respiratory therapy principles and practices.

Responsibilities

• Assists licensed respiratory therapists in the preparation and administration of basic respiratory treatments, including oxygen therapy, aerosol treatments, and incentive spirometry.
• Observes and monitors patients during respiratory therapy treatments, reporting any adverse reactions or unusual observations to the supervising therapist or physician.
• Cleans, maintains, and sets up respiratory equipment following established infection control and safety protocols.
• Records treatment administration and patient responses in the medical record as directed.
• Prepares necessary supplies and equipment for respiratory procedures, ensuring proper stock levels and equipment functionality.
• Educates patients and families on basic respiratory exercises and therapies under the guidance of licensed personnel.
• Adheres to all departmental policies, safety regulations, and infection prevention protocols to maintain a safe patient care environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Basic respiratory care

Communication skills

Infection control

Time management

Education

Respiratory Therapy Technician training program

Job description

Job Summary

The Respiratory Therapy Technician - Non-Certified provides basic respiratory care services under the direction of a licensed respiratory therapist or physician. This role involves assisting with respiratory treatments, monitoring patients, and maintaining respiratory equipment. The technician supports patient care by ensuring a clean, safe, and organized environment and follows all departmental protocols and procedures.

Essential Functions

• Assists licensed respiratory therapists in the preparation and administration of basic respiratory treatments, including oxygen therapy, aerosol treatments, and incentive spirometry.
• Observes and monitors patients during respiratory therapy treatments, reporting any adverse reactions or unusual observations to the supervising therapist or physician.
• Cleans, maintains, and sets up respiratory equipment following established infection control and safety protocols.
• Records treatment administration and patient responses in the medical record as directed.
• Prepares necessary supplies and equipment for respiratory procedures, ensuring proper stock levels and equipment functionality.
• Educates patients and families on basic respiratory exercises and therapies under the guidance of licensed personnel.
• Adheres to all departmental policies, safety regulations, and infection prevention protocols to maintain a safe patient care environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of a Respiratory Therapy Technician training program or coursework in a related healthcare field preferred
• 0-1 years of experience in respiratory care or a related field preferred
• Experience in respiratory therapy, pulmonary function testing, or oxygen therapy support preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Basic understanding of respiratory therapy principles and practices.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and work under supervision.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
• Knowledge of infection control practices and equipment maintenance protocols.
• Ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks in a busy clinical setting.

Licenses and Certifications

• BCLS - Basic Life Support obtained within 30 days of hire required