Respiratory Extern

The Respiratory Extern assists licensed respiratory therapists by providing the most basic respiratory
therapy treatments and procedures. The Respiratory Extern performs patient and family care and
documentation at the most basic performance level under the direct, immediate, and on-premise
supervision of a licensed respiratory therapist. The Respiratory Extern performs airway clearance,
administers aerosolized medications, and assists with oxygen therapy administration/transport.
SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Under direct supervision of a KBRC-mandatorily certified Respiratory Therapist and in accordance with
physician orders, facility policies, and the student’s documented competencies, the Student Respiratory
Therapist may:
● Assess patients’ cardiopulmonary status within trained scope.
● Administer oxygen therapy, humidity therapy, aerosol therapy (medicated and non-medicated),
gas therapy, incentive spirometry, airway clearance techniques, and chest physiotherapy.
● Set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot basic respiratory equipment for which training has
been received.
● Deliver ordered respiratory treatments and monitor patient response.
● Assist with equipment processing, cleaning, reprocessing, supply management, and
departmental support functions.
● Document care accurately in the medical record per facility policy.
● Participate in emergency response activities consistent with training (e.g., basic CPR support)
when directed.
● Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work environment.
● Demonstrate professionalism, patient-centered communication, and adherence to ethical
standards of respiratory care
STANDARD JOB DUTIES
● Responds to all reasonable requests in an appropriate and timely manner and communicates in a
concise and effective way with others. Demonstrates flexibility to fluctuating workload and
effectively prioritizes assignments.
(Collaborative, Accountable, Competent)
● Demonstrates Sacred Work philosophy in all work interactions. Exhibits a positive attitude as a
Partner in Caring in support of the mission of Baptist Hospital of Southeast Texas.
(Compassionate, Respectful, Accountable)
● Embraces diversity within the work environment and consistently deals with all customers in a
friendly and respectful manner. Supports teamwork and cooperation with work partners,
volunteers to assist co-workers. (Compassionate, Respectful, Collaborative)

2
● Has a wealth of knowledge about all job facets and is considered competent. Understands job
responsibilities and is able to deal with multiple competing demands. Accepts liability for errors
and makes corrections willingly. Embraces continuous learning.
(Competent, Accountable)
● Adheres to all policies and procedures related to safety, infection control, confidentiality and
corporate compliance, including personal demeanor, appearance and hygiene that are
appropriate for the work environment. (Accountable, Competent)
● Observe and/or listen to achieve detailed results or detect subtle flaws/errors.
● Continually challenge existing conditions and activities in order to identify discrepancies that
might result in error or inappropriate action.
● Effectively transfer (handoff) essential information (along with authority and responsibility during
transitions in care; to include an opportunity to ask questions, clarify and confirm.
● Successfully work together with peers and management to achieve a desired outcome.
● Adhere to rules and best practices for safety concerns for patients, staff and yourself.
Qualifications:

Education/Experience:
Currently enrolled and in good standing in an accredited Respiratory Therapy Program or successfully
graduated from program and awaiting licensure from the state respiratory governing body.
Computer Skills:
Knowledge of basic computer skills and word processing.
Certificates and Licenses:
Current BLS (CPR)
Supervisory Responsibilities:
None
Work Environment:
The work environment is representative of that which an employee encounters while performing the
essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands of this job are representative of those that must be met by an employee to
successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to
a qualified individual with a disability who can perform the essential functions of this position with or
without reasonable accommodation.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this
job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus
while performing the duties of this job. The employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to
finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk; and hear.
Acknowledgement of Receipt and Acceptance of Job Description
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work required in this
position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills
required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time
to time and as needed