Some of these therapists work in home care. They teach patients and families to use ventilators and other life support systems. They visit several times a month to inspect and clean equipment. They must make sure it is being used properly. They also make emergency visits if there are problems with the equipment.
Respiratory therapists perform chest physiotherapy on patients.
This is to remove mucus from their lungs and make it easier for them to breathe. Respiratory therapists also administer aerosols and teach patients how to inhale the aerosol. Aerosols are liquid medications that are suspended in a gas that forms a mist. The patient then inhales the mist. Therapists often work under the supervision of nurses.