Understanding of basic chemical and physical principles Pay attention to detail, follow instructions, and work as part of a team. Operating complicated respiratory therapy equipment requires mechanical ability and manual dexterity. Typical Work Activities Back to Top Evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Respiratory therapists perform chest physiotherapy on patients to remove mucus from their lungs to make it easier for them to breathe. Keep records of the materials used and charges to patients.
Some therapists teach or supervise other respiratory therapy personnel.
Provide temporary relief to patients with chronic asthma or emphysema and emergency care for heart failure, stroke, drowning, or shock victims. Respiratory therapists most commonly use oxygen or oxygen mixtures, chest physiotherapy, and aerosol medications 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. These publications must be used in the Career Services Office. However there are many brochures and magazines such as Resume Writing, Interviewing and Job Choices that you may take with you. Respiratory Therapist information from Occupational Outlook Handbook.