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Respiratory Therapy Extern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision fo a Licensed Respiratory Thearpist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision of a Licensed Respiratory Therapist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision fo a Licensed Respiratory Thearpist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

The Respiratory Therapy Extern works directly under the general supervision of a Licensed Respiratory Therapist and assists with stabilizing, preventing and remedying patient respiratory problems in ...

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Respiratory Therapy Extern information

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$43

$72

How much do respiratory therapy extern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for respiratory therapy extern in the United States is $43.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.29 and $53.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Respiratory Therapy Extern vs Respiratory Therapist?

AspectRespiratory Therapy ExternRespiratory Therapist
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed respiratory therapy programLicensed and certified respiratory therapist
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, assisting licensed therapistsIndependent practice in healthcare settings
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with patient care, learning proceduresPerforming assessments, administering treatments

The main difference is that a Respiratory Therapy Extern is a student or trainee gaining hands-on experience, while a Respiratory Therapist is a licensed professional providing independent patient care. Externs support the team and learn skills, whereas licensed therapists perform full responsibilities in patient treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Respiratory Therapy Extern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Respiratory Therapy Extern, you need foundational knowledge of respiratory care principles, typically gained through enrollment in an accredited respiratory therapy program and completion of core coursework. Familiarity with respiratory therapy equipment, such as ventilators and oxygen delivery systems, and basic proficiency in electronic medical records (EMRs) are important. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills for collaborating with healthcare teams and supporting patient care. These abilities help ensure safe, effective care delivery and provide essential preparation for advancement as a licensed respiratory therapist.

How do Respiratory Therapy Externs typically collaborate with licensed respiratory therapists and other healthcare professionals during their clinical rotations?

Respiratory Therapy Externs work closely under the supervision of licensed respiratory therapists, often assisting with patient assessments, administering therapeutic treatments, and learning to operate respiratory equipment. They are also exposed to interdisciplinary teamwork by interacting with nurses, physicians, and other allied health staff to ensure coordinated patient care. This collaborative environment helps externs develop communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of their role within the healthcare team, preparing them for future independent practice.

What are Respiratory Therapy Externs?

Respiratory Therapy Externs are students or recent graduates from accredited respiratory therapy programs who work under supervision in clinical settings to gain hands-on experience. They assist licensed respiratory therapists in providing care to patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. This role involves tasks such as administering oxygen, monitoring ventilators, and performing basic respiratory care procedures. The externship helps prepare individuals for professional certification and future employment in the field.
More about Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs? The most popular types of Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs are:
What states have the most Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs? States with the most job openings for Respiratory Therapy Extern jobs include:
Infographic showing various Respiratory Therapy Extern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 3% Internship, 5% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $89,915 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Respiratory Therapy Extern - Southfield

Henry Ford Providence Hospitals

Southfield, MI

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Location: Henry Ford Providence Southfield Hospital

GENERAL SUMMARY 

A Respiratory Therapy Extern is defined as a person who is a full-time student in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS, and works at the hospital in addition to their clinical studies.  

Under supervision of Registered Respiratory Therapists, the extern performs basic tasks, which have been learned in class and practiced in the School Laboratory setting. These tasks have also been practiced with demonstrated competency during clinical rotations at area hospitals.  

The extern follows all HFH Departmental Policies and Procedures and performs tasks only after successful passing of theoretical tests and practical competencies, administered by HFH Departmental leadership. As the externs progress in knowledge and experience, their job scope widens, as they demonstrate more skills and proficiencies. 

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Performs patient assessment, delivers basic Oxygen and aerosolized medication therapy.  

  • Performs CPR, Whole Blood analysis, Sputum induction, and other basic diagnostic tests, as assigned.  

  • Distributes respiratory supplies. Washes, cleans and disinfects soiled medical equipment. Tests and assembles various life-support, diagnostic, monitoring and therapy equipment.  

  • Adequately documents delivered patient care and all other assigned tasks.  

  • Functions as a team member in the care of patients. 

  • Communicates with coworkers, and other professionals, including physicians and nurses as needed to assist with quality patient care.  

  • Maintains high standards of clinical excellence, according to Departmental policies.  

  • Maintains clinical productivity standards.  

  • Maintains technical clinical expertise through educational activities.  

  • Maintains awareness of patient safety issues within the clinic and in the use of equipment. 

  • Maintains patient confidentiality according to HFHS HIPAA policies. 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED 

Full-time student in good standing in an accredited Respiratory Therapy program, preferably affiliated with HFHS.  

Extending their expected graduation date, due to failing grades or dropping out of a Respiratory Therapy program is a condition for automatic termination as a Respiratory Therapy Extern.  

After graduation, the extern may apply for employment as a respiratory therapist and may be hired, based on meeting the educational and experience criteria, as well as availability of position openings for the Registered Respiratory Therapist job description. In either case, their employment as a Respiratory Extern will cease after graduation. 

Additional Information
  • Organization: Henry Ford Providence Hospitals
  • Department: HFPSH Respiratory Therapy
  • Shift: Rotating
  • Union Code: Not Applicable