Respiratory therapist

Respiratory Therapist

A Respiratory Therapist (pronunciation: /rɪˈspɪrətɔːri θɛrəpɪst/) is a specialized healthcare professional who has received education and training in pulmonology and cardiopulmonary medicine in order to work therapeutically with people suffering from acute or chronic respiratory diseases.

Etymology

The term "Respiratory Therapist" is derived from the Latin word 'respirare' meaning 'to breathe' and the Greek word 'therapeia' meaning 'healing'.

Roles and Responsibilities

A Respiratory Therapist is responsible for the assessment and treatment of patients with both acute and chronic dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system. Their duties include, but are not limited to, the administration of oxygen, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, management of mechanical ventilators, administering drugs to the lungs, monitoring cardiopulmonary systems, measuring lung function and providing patient education.

Education and Certification

In order to become a Respiratory Therapist, one must complete a degree from an accredited program in Respiratory Therapy. After graduation, they must pass a national examination to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Further specialization can be achieved by becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).