How do they match: Respiratory Therapists

  • Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.

  • Educate patients and their families about their conditions and teach appropriate disease management techniques, such as breathing exercises or the use of medications or respiratory equipment.
  • Perform endotracheal intubation to maintain open airways for patients who are unable to breathe on their own.
  • Read prescription, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition.
  • Teach, train, supervise, or use the assistance of students, respiratory therapy technicians, or assistants.
  • Use a variety of testing techniques to assist doctors in cardiac or pulmonary research or to diagnose disorders.

  • Implement advanced life support techniques.
  • Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
  • Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
  • Train patients, family members, or caregivers in techniques for managing disabilities or illnesses.