Yet for thousands of Americans who suffer from breathing problems, each breath is a major accomplishment. Respiratory therapists work under the direction of a physician and assist in the diagnosis, treatment and management of patients with these types of breathing disorders. To view this video, you will need to download RealPlayer, if you don't already have it. The Role of the Respiratory Therapist Respiratory therapists work with patients of all ages and in many different care settings. Respiratory therapists are vital members of the hospital's lifesaving response team.
Respiratory therapists perform procedures that are both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Obtain and analyze sputum and breath specimens. Draw and analyze blood samples to determine the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide and other gases in order to assess the best course of treatment for a patient Measure the capacity of a patient's lungs to determine if there is impaired function. Perform stress tests and other studies of the cardiopulmonary system. Study disorders of people with disruptive sleep patterns. Employ mechanical ventilation for treating patients who cannot breathe adequately on their own.