Essential Technical and Professional Standards for Respiratory Therapy Students

The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Health Related Professions (UMDNJ-SHRP) is committed to the education of all students, including those with disabilities, who with or without reasonable accommodations, are capable of performing the essential functions inherent in being a respiratory care student and eventually a respiratory therapist.

The following standards are described to assist each prospective student in evaluating his/her abilities to perform these essential functions.  It is important to read each standard carefully. Upon acceptance to the program, the student will be required to acknowledge that he/she have read, understood and can successfully meet all of the standards described in the following paragraphs.

Observational Standards:

1. Review existing data, collect additional data, and recommend obtaining data to evaluate the respiratory status of patients. Develop the respiratory care plan and determine the appropriateness of the prescribed therapy.
2. Observe/see patient conditions such as skin color, work of breathing mist flowing through tubing.
3. Discern colors/color changes (e.g., skin color, work of breathing mist flowing through tubing).
4. Perceive high and low pitched sounds of variable intensities against significant background noise (e.g., blood pressure/Korotkoff sounds, breath sounds, heart sounds, equipment sounds and alarms).
5. Hear/respond to verbal directions; communicate verbally in English to patients and coworkers.

Communication Standards:

1. Document necessary information in the patient’s medical records and on other forms, and communicate the information to members of the health care team.
2. Speak and write effectively to communicate in English pertinent information (e.g., patient evaluation data, therapy outcomes).

Intellectual/Conceptual Standards:

1. Utilize the application of scientific principles for the identification, prevention, remediation, research and rehabilitation of acute or chronic cardiopulmonary dysfunction, thereby producing optimum health and functions.
2. Read typed, handwritten or computer information in English.
3. Use problem solving to identify and correct malfunctions of respiratory care equipment.
4. Maintain confidentiality and upholds the ethical standards of the profession.
5. Perform frequent practical, oral and written examinations and/or demonstrations
6. Attend and participate in classroom, lab and clinical education and training, on and off campus.

Motor Skill Standards:

1. Initiate, conduct and modify prescribed therapeutic and diagnostic procedures such as:  administering medical gases, humidification and aerosols, aerosol medications, postural drainage, broncho pulmonary hygiene, cardiopulmonary resuscitation; providing support services to mechanically ventilated patients; maintaining artificial and natural airways; performing pulmonary function testing, hemodynamic monitoring and other physiologic monitoring; and collecting specimens of blood and other materials.
2. Work lengthy and irregular hours attending to patients.
3. Obtain, assemble, calibrate and check necessary equipment.
4. Lift up to 50 pounds to assist in moving patients or equipment.
5. Scoop, kneel and/or crouch to perform procedures (CPR) or adjust equipment.
6. Reach at least five and one-half feet (66”) above the floor to attach equipment to wall outlets.
7. Push/pull and move large, wheeled equipment, e.g., mechanical ventilators, beds and stretchers.
8. Grasp and manipulate with precision and safety small equipment (syringes, needles, laryngoscopes, etc.).
9. Walk/stand for prolonged periods of time (e.g., deliver therapy, make rounds, respond to calls).
10. Manipulate with precision any knobs, dials, keypads or touch screens used with diagnostic/therapeutic devices.
11. Palpate/feel with precision the location and character of normal/abnormal anatomic structures (e.g., pulses, artery locations, subcutaneous emphysema).

Behavioral and Social Standards:

1. Demonstrate consistent ability to be punctual for all classes, laboratory and Program activities.
2. Demonstrate appropriate interpersonal skills to work productively with patients, families, staff and co-workers.
3. Accept and follow through on directives and instruction.
4. Function safely, effectively and calmly under stressful situations (life-threatening emergencies, dealing with terminally ill patients and their families).
5. Prioritize multiple tasks; maintain composure while managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
6. Exhibit the social skills needed to interact effectively with patients, families, supervisors and coworkers of the same or different cultures; exhibit respect, politeness, tact, collaboration, teamwork and discretion.
7. Maintain personal hygiene consistent with close personal contact associated with patient care.
8. Display attitudes/actions and behaviors consistent with the ethical standards of the profession.

For more info visit: AARC Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct