Respiratory Care Technical Standards
Core Performance Standards for Admission and Progression
| ISSUE | STANDARD | EXAMPLES OF NECESSARY ACTIVITIES (not all inclusive) |
|---|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | Critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgment |
Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations Develop care plans Make rapid decisions under pressure Handle multiple priorities in stressful situations Assist with problem solving |
| Interpersonal | Interpersonal abilities sufficient to interact with individuals, families, and groups from a variety of social, educational, cultural, and intellectual backgrounds |
Establish rapport with patients/clients and colleagues Cope effectively with high levels of stress Cope with anger/fear/hostility of others in a calm manner Cope with confrontation Demonstrate high degree of patience |
| Communication | Communication abilities sufficient for interaction with others in verbal and written form |
Explain treatment procedures Initiate client education Document and interpret nursing actions and patient/client responses |
| Mobility | Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room, to maneuver in small spaces and to perform procedures necessary for emergency intervention |
Move around in patient’s rooms, workspaces, and treatment areas Administer cardio-pulmonary resuscitation procedures Walk the equivalent of 5 miles per day Remain on one’s feet in upright position at a workstation without moving about Climb stairs Remain in seated position |
| Motor Skills | Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe and effective patient care |
Calibrate and use equipment Position patients/clients, manage a 200 lb. patient Perform repetitive tasks Able to grip Bend at knee and squat. Reach above shoulder level Lift and carry 25 lbs., with assistance 50 lbs. Exert 20-50 pounds of force (pushing/pulling) |
| Hearing | Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess health needs |
Hear monitor alarms, emergency Hear tape recorded transcriptions Hear telephone interactions |
| Visual | Visual ability sufficient for observation and assessment necessary in nursing care |
Observe patient/client responses Identify and distinguish colors |
| Tactile | Tactile ability sufficient for physical assessment |
Perform palpation, functions of physical examination and/or those related to therapeutic intervention, e.g., insertion of a catheter |
| Environmental | Ability to tolerate environmental stressors |
Adapt to shift work Work with chemicals and detergents Tolerate exposure to fumes and odors Work in areas that are close and crowded |