Respiratory therapists test, treat and provide care to patients experiencing pulmonary difficulties. Respiratory therapists take primary responsibility for all pulmonary care, but practice under a physician. Patients may be suffering from disease- emphysema or cystic fibrosis, a chronic problem - asthma, or an emergency problem - drowning, smoke inhalation. Patient ages and lifestyles also vary dramatically from newborns to senior citizens.
Respiratory therapists evaluate patients by taking medical histories and administering tests using blood or lung capacity tests. Treatment can take the form of oxygen, chest therapy or medication. Respiratory therapists also administer and maintain ventilators for patients who can't breathe on their own.
RTs also provide patient care during surgery to maintain or retain proper lung capacity and breathing.
Eighty percent of respiratory therapists work in hospitals, though more and more are working in home care and long term care facilities. Many respiratory therapists work two jobs, partially due to a short work week.
A career as a respiratory therapist is one of the specialty job opportunities in the medical field. This job offers a great salary and very flexible hours. This career is a great choice for people who like to give direct patient care.
