Respiratory Therapists

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
2. 02Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions occur.
3. 03Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.
4. 04Work as part of a team of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties.
5. 05Maintain charts that contain patients' pertinent identification and therapy information.
6. 06Read prescription, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition.
7. 07Relay blood analysis results to a physician.
8. 08Inspect, clean, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently, ordering repairs when necessary.
9. 09Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and allay fears.
10. 10Make emergency visits to resolve equipment problems.
11. 11Determine requirements for treatment, such as type, method and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, or medication and dosages, compatible with physicians' orders.
12. 12Enforce safety rules and ensure careful adherence to physicians' orders.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading