Respiratory Therapist Intern

Respiratory Therapist Intern

Overview:

This internship introduces high school students to the field of respiratory therapy. Interns will observe respiratory therapists as they assess and treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary conditions. The experience provides exposure to patient care, medical equipment, and the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in respiratory care.

Responsibilities May Include:

· Shadow respiratory therapists during patient assessments, treatments, and procedures (observation only; interns will not perform therapy)

· Assist with non-clinical tasks such as organizing equipment, restocking supplies, or maintaining clean workspaces

· Learn about respiratory equipment, patient monitoring, and safety protocols

· Observe communication and collaboration with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare staff

· Gain exposure to patient education, treatment planning, and professional documentation

· Completing assignments, reflection journals, or internship workbook entries as required by the program

Learning Outcomes:

· Understand the role of respiratory therapists in patient care and healthcare teams

· Learn about respiratory conditions, treatment methods, and medical equipment

· Gain awareness of patient safety, confidentiality (HIPAA), and professional standards

· Develop observation, communication, and organizational skills

· Explore educational and career pathways in respiratory therapy, healthcare, and allied health fields

Preferred Skills/Interests:

· Interest in healthcare, respiratory care, or patient services

· Strong observation, attention to detail, and willingness to learn

· Respect for patient privacy and professionalism

· Good communication and teamwork skills

Additional Information:

· Interns will primarily observe and assist with support tasks; they will not provide direct patient care

· Compliance with dress code, safety protocols, and hospital policies is required

· Some placements may require health screenings, immunizations, or background checks prior to starting

Notice on Internship Opportunities

Please note that internship opportunities will vary by host site and county.

· Not all career areas or placements will be available in every location.

· Host sites may have different requirements, schedules, responsibilities.

· Opportunities depend on local partnerships, availability, and community resources.

Students are encouraged to remain flexible and open to a variety of learning experiences. Each internship is designed to provide valuable workplace skills, career exploration, and professional growth - regardless of the specific placement.

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.

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