Checklists
Tap to check things off. Your checks save on this phone or computer so you can come back to them.
Heads up: every facility and agency has its own requirements. Use these as a starting point and go by your agency's compliance list. Items marked RT are just for respiratory therapists.
📁 Documents to have ready State license(s) for where you're going, plus your home-state license and verification printouts Certifications that apply to you: BLS, plus ACLS / PALS / NRP / others your unit asks for (check the expiration dates) RT NBRC credential (CRT or RRT) and your credential number. Verify it at nbrc.org Immunization records (MMR, varicella, hep B, Tdap, flu, plus anything else the facility requires) TB test or chest X-ray results, and titers if you have them Recent physical / fit-for-duty form (if required) Drug screen. Your agency usually sets this up, so watch for the deadline Updated resume with dates, unit types, bed counts and charting systems Skills checklists for your specialty References: 2 to 3 recent managers or charge staff, with phone and email Photo ID (driver's license) I-9 paperwork: a U.S. passport alone, OR a driver's license plus your Social Security card or birth certificate. Bring the originals, no copies Direct deposit info, plus proof of your permanent (tax home) address Car insurance and registration Clear checks
🧳 Packing list for a 13-week contract Scrubs, at least 4 to 5 sets (find out if the unit requires a color) Two pairs of good work shoes and compression socks Stethoscope, penlight, trauma shears, pens, badge reel RT Your own pocket reference, plus anything you like having (O2 / vent quick cards, ABG cheat sheet)Warm layer or scrub jacket (hospitals run cold) Lunch bag, water bottle, travel mug Everyday clothes for the season, plus a rain jacket Bedding and towels (if not provided), plus your own pillow Laptop or tablet and chargers, plus a power strip Meds, a basic first aid kit, and copies of prescriptions A folder (paper or phone) of all your documents from the list above Small toolkit, flashlight and duct tape Something that makes it feel like home: photos, a favorite mug, a blanket Clear checks
🚐 Optional: RV / camper travelers Only if you're pulling a camper. Renting? Skip this and see the Housing page.
Clear checks
🏥 First week on contract Get your start time, where to report, and who to ask for in writing before day 1 Bring your ID, license and certification cards to orientation Figure out parking: where staff park, any permit or fee, and where the night-shift entrance is Get your badge, computer logins and charting access, and test them before your first shift Know how you clock in and how timecards get approved (and who signs them) Save the numbers for your unit, charge nurse or lead, manager, staffing office and recruiter Learn where the supplies, crash cart, Pyxis or med room, and break room are RT Find the RT department, the vent and equipment room, the ABG analyzer, and the RT protocolsFind the closest pharmacy, grocery store, gas station, urgent care and laundromat Do a practice drive at your shift time to see the real traffic Check your first paycheck: hours, rate and stipends should match your contract Write down your requested days off and confirm them with the manager Clear checks
👋 Before you leave an assignment Sources: USCIS: Form I-9 acceptable documents ; NBRC ; USPS change of address . The checklists are general guides, so always follow your agency's and facility's own lists. Last checked Oct 2026.