Respiratory Therapist

Duke Health is a leading healthcare provider in the United States, committed to delivering compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community.

We are seeking a Respiratory Care Assistant to join our team at Duke University Hospital. As a Respiratory Care Assistant, you will work under the supervision of a Registered Respiratory Therapist to perform diagnostic and therapeutic clinical procedures.

• Verify physician orders for appropriateness and accuracy
• Understand pharmacological indications, dosages, and response to adverse drug reactions
• Consult with providers based on patient care assessments and in accordance with accepted protocols
• Provide education to patients, families, physicians, nursing, and other members of the healthcare team
• Monitor response to all therapy and document in the patient medical record
• Communicate all pertinent clinical information during patient rounds and handoff
• Perform diagnostic cardiopulmonary procedures, including nasotracheal and artificial airway suctioning and samples, arterial blood gas punctures, pulse oximetry, and EtCO2 monitoring
• Recognize life-threatening situations and initiate appropriate response, perform CPR, and bag-mask ventilation
• Assure correct set-up, safety, and function of all equipment and supplies necessary in the provision of patient care
• Assure adherence to all infectious disease standards in the delivery of all patient care procedures
• Participate in quality improvement activities
• Maintain all necessary safety and life support certifications per required

• Active enrollment in a 2-year approved respiratory care program (Associates Degree or the equivalent) and is in good standing
• Completion of the first semester of the respiratory care program
• None required beyond clinical affiliation of the respiratory program
• The student RCP must register with the Board before providing Respiratory Care procedures as a Respiratory Care Assistant and will receive an approval letter from the Board
• Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and any other certifications applicable to the institution

Duke University Health System is a comprehensive healthcare system that includes Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, and Duke Raleigh Hospital. We are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care to our patients and their families.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from diverse candidates. We are committed to creating a workplace that is inclusive and respectful of all employees.