Respiratory therapist (RT)

A Respiratory Therapist (RT) is a healthcare professional who specialists working with patients suffering from either acute or chronic respiratory problems. These specialists are termed Respiratory Practitioners in most places internationally but may also be referred to as Respiratory Scientists. Respiratory therapists work independently and as part of a team to plan, integrate, and evaluate cardiac and pulmonary care. Respiratory therapists also recommend intervention and therapeutic methods and serve as a consultation resource for physicians in treatment of patients with respiratory conditions. In the United States oxygen and other medical gas systems, both portable and installed are under the management of the Department of Respiratory Care and subsequently by the Respiratory Therapists within that hospital.

See also: Registered Respiratory Therapist

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