"Respiratory Care Student Intern"

Position Summary

The Advising, Counseling, and Support Services Department is recruiting for Student Interns to work in Respiratory Care at Post Acute Medical (PAM). This 12-week Respiratory Therapy Internship is part of the Texas Internship Initiative Grant, offered in partnership with Workforce Solutions Golden Crescent and Victoria College. Tailored for students in their final semester of the Respiratory Care Program, this internship offers practical experience in a hospital setting under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists.

Interns will work 8-12 hours per week, depending on departmental needs.

To participate, students must meet Texas Internship Initiative Grant eligibility criteria. Interns will receive a stipend from Victoria College to support transportation, childcare, and tuition/fees. This opportunity helps students strengthen their clinical skills, gain confidence in patient care, and prepare for the transition to a licensed professional role.

Duties & Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Assist with oxygen therapy, aerosol treatments, chest physiotherapy, and inhaled medication administration;
2. Observe and perform arterial blood gas collection and analysis;
3. Monitor patients on ventilators and other respiratory support systems under supervision;
4. Learn to troubleshoot respiratory equipment and ensure proper functionality;
5. Assist in emergency responses, such as code blues and rapid response calls;
6. Document therapy sessions and patient progress in the electronic health record (EHR);
7. Follow strict infection control and patient safety protocols;
8. Participate in interdisciplinary care meetings and patient education;
9. Other duties as assigned by the supervising therapist.

INTERN LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Apply classroom knowledge to clinical situations in a supervised healthcare environment.
• Gain hands-on experience with respiratory equipment, treatment protocols, and monitoring.
• Understand the role of respiratory therapists in acute and chronic care settings.
• Strengthen professional communication with healthcare teams and patients.
• Develop confidence and competence in preparation for board exams and licensure.

Qualifications

1. Currently enrolled in the final semester of the Respiratory Care Program at Victoria College
2. Knowledge of basic respiratory care products and patient assessment
3. Effective interpersonal and teamwork skills
4. Ability to follow hospital policies and maintain confidentiality (HIPPA compliance)
5. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
6. Selected interns are required to obtain liability insurance prior to their start date
7. Additional information will be provided to selected students

GRANT ELIGIBILITY:

To qualify for this grant funded internship opportunity, students must be able to provide the following upon request. This information will be requested when necessary and is not required to complete the online application;

1. Proof of income threshold by submitting a Form 1040
2. For male applicants, verification of Selective Service registration

Physical Demands

The intern must be able to perform physical tasks typical of a hospital environment, including standing, walking, and assisting patients for extended periods. This role may require lifting or repositioning patients and handling medical equipment. Interns must have the dexterity to perform clinical tasks and respond quickly to patient needs or emergencies. The ability to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and work in a fast-paced clinical setting is required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.