Question

How much do you know about respiratory therapy? For this discussion, describe some

aspect of a respiratory therapists's work. Avoid information already stated in the

classroom or by other students.  Your response should be a minimum of 100 words,

Answer 1

Medical Definition of respiratory therapy

Therapy that is concerned with the maintenance or improvement of respiratory functioning (as in patients with pulmonary disease).

Respiratory therapy takes proven strategies and applies them to patients in need of immediate respiratory care. ... The goal of a respiratory therapist is to ensure that a patient's breathing functions are operating at the highest levels of performance.

Respiratory therapists typically do the following:

• Interview and examine patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders
• Consult with physicians to develop patient treatment plans
• Perform diagnostic tests, such as measuring lung capacity
• Treat patients by using a variety of methods, including chest physiotherapy and aerosol medications
• Monitor and record patients' progress
• Teach patients how to take medications and use equipment, such as ventilators

Respiratory therapists use various tests to evaluate patients. For example, therapists test lung capacity by having patients breathe into an instrument that measures the volume and flow of oxygen when they inhale and exhale. Respiratory therapists also may take blood samples and use a blood gas analyzer to test oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Respiratory therapists perform chest physiotherapy on patients to remove mucus from their lungs and make it easier for them to breathe. Removing mucus is necessary for patients suffering from lung diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, and involves the therapist vibrating the patient's rib cage, often by tapping the patient's chest and encouraging him or her to cough.

Respiratory therapists may connect patients who cannot breathe on their own to ventilators that deliver oxygen to the lungs. Therapists insert a tube in the patient's windpipe (trachea) and connect the tube to ventilator equipment. They set up and monitor the equipment to ensure that the patient is receiving the correct amount of oxygen at the correct rate.

Respiratory therapists who work in home care teach patients and their families to use ventilators and other life-support systems in their homes. During these visits, they may inspect and clean equipment, check the home for environmental hazards, and ensure that patients know how to use their medications. Therapists also make emergency home visits when necessary.