PRN Respiratory Care Assistant-Cardiopulmonary

Respiratory Care Assistant (RCA)

Cardiopulmonary Services | Ashe Memorial Hospital | West Jefferson, NC

At Ashe Memorial Hospital, our mission guides everything we do:
“To meet the needs of the community by delivering patient-centered, high-quality health care.”

Recognized as Ashe’s Best Place to Work from 2022 through 2025, we are proud to provide a collaborative, supportive environment where healthcare professionals are empowered to deliver exceptional care within a close-knit community.

Position Overview

The Respiratory Care Assistant (RCA) works under the direct supervision of a licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner to support the delivery of respiratory therapy services. This role involves performing a range of routine respiratory care procedures while ensuring safe, effective, and age-appropriate care across the patient lifespan.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer routine respiratory therapy treatments in accordance with established clinical protocols
• Monitor and document patient vital signs, breath sounds, and oxygen saturation levels
• Perform non-invasive monitoring to support patient safety and clinical decision-making
• Instruct patients in breathing techniques, including coughing and deep breathing exercises
• Identify and report changes in patient condition to appropriate clinical staff
• Recognize and respond to emergent situations within scope of practice
• Operate and maintain respiratory care equipment in accordance with departmental standards
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation and charge capture
• Communicate patient status and updates to ensure continuity of care
• Deliver age-appropriate care across neonatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations
• Maintain competency in age-specific and respiratory care practices

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED – required
• Current enrollment in a CoARC-accredited Respiratory Care program, in good standing
• Successful completion of at least one (1) year of the program

Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of respiratory care experience in a student capacity

Licensure & Certifications:

• Current registration with the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board (NCRCB) as a Respiratory Care Assistant – required
• Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) certification – required
• Successful completion of required competency evaluations

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and clinical accuracy
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to recognize and respond to patient needs
• Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care
• Ability to function effectively in a fast-paced clinical environment

Why Join Ashe Memorial Hospital

• Supportive, team-oriented work environment
• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience while completing your respiratory program
• Meaningful work that directly impacts patient care
• Recognition as a multi-year Best Place to Work
• Professional growth and development opportunities

Benefits

Eligible employees may participate in the organization’s benefits program beginning the first day of the month following employment, in accordance with hospital policy. Additional details are available through Human Resources.

Employment Requirements

• Compliance with all hospital policies, including vaccination requirements (approved exemptions considered)
• Successful completion of a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening (post-offer)

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit:

• Completed application
• Resume
• Cover letter

For additional information, please contact Human Resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ashe Memorial Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Start Your Career with Purpose

Gain hands-on clinical experience while making a meaningful impact—supporting patients and building your future in respiratory care.