Therapists place patients in positions to help drain mucus, thump and vibrate patients' rib cages, and instruct them to cough. Respiratory therapists also administer aerosols generally liquid medications suspended in a gas that forms a mist which is inhaled and teach patients how to inhale the aerosol properly to assure its effectiveness. Therapists are increasingly working under the supervision of nurses and are being asked to perform tasks that fall outside of their traditional role. They are expanding into cardiopulmonary procedures like electrocardiograms and stress testing but also perform other tasks like drawing blood samples from patients. They also keep records of the materials used and charges to patients.
Some therapists teach or supervise other respiratory therapy personnel.
Because hospitals operate around the clock, therapists may work evenings, nights, or weekends. They spend long periods standing and walking between patients' rooms. In an emergency, they work under a great deal of stress. Gases used by respiratory therapists are potentially hazardous because they are used and stored under pressure. However, adherence to safety precautions and regular maintenance and testing of equipment minimize the risk of injury.