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.

  • Determine requirements for treatment, such as type, method and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, or medication and dosages, compatible with physicians' orders.
  • Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and allay fears.
  • Perform endotracheal intubation to maintain open airways for patients who are unable to breathe on their own.
  • Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.

  • Treat chronic diseases or disorders.
  • Treat medical emergencies.
  • Operate diagnostic or therapeutic medical instruments or equipment.
  • Assist healthcare practitioners during examinations or treatments.
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment.
  • Examine medical instruments or equipment to ensure proper operation.
  • Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
  • Move patients to or from treatment areas.
  • Verify that medical activities or operations meet standards.