Respiratory Therapist

Cancer Terms -> NCI Administrative Concepts -> Occupation or Discipline -> Occupation -> Allied Health Profession -> Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist Definition

A person trained and qualified to perform technical work concerned with administering therapeutic and diagnostic respiratory care and life support to patients with cardiopulmonary deficiencies and abnormalities. The work involves: operating and monitoring respiratory equipment such as ventilators, medical gas delivery apparatus, environmental control systems, incentive breathing/hyperinflation and aerosol devices; administering medical gases, humidification, and respiratory medications; maintaining clearance of patient natural and artificial airways; obtaining blood samples and interpreting blood gas data; and providing primary assistance in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.