Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders.

Respiratory therapists treat patients who have trouble breathing, including:

• Premature babies with underdeveloped lungs
• People with chronic diseases such as asthma or emphysema
• Elderly patients with lung disease

In some cases, respiratory therapists give care to patients during emergencies such as heart attacks.

Respiratory therapists evaluate new patients before they treat them. They talk to patients and explain what they are doing. They test patients' lung capacity by having them breathe into an instrument that measures oxygen. They compare the reading with the norm for the patient's age, height, weight, and sex. Therapists also use blood gas analyzers to measure the levels of oxygen and acidity in patients' blood.

Respiratory therapists consult with a physician to make a treatment plan. Treatment options include:

• Aerosol medications
• Chest physiotherapy
• Ventilation

Therapists monitor patients' conditions, and consult with the doctor if there are bad reactions.

Some patients use ventilators and other life support systems at home. Therapists teach patients how to use them and make sure the equipment is working correctly. They also teach patients how to inhale medications properly so that the medicine is most effective.

Respiratory therapists maintain patients' charts as they treat them. They record the results of evaluations and all treatment notes. They make sure that all safety precautions are followed. In addition, therapists with experience may train and supervise new therapists and other staff.

Respiratory therapists may perform procedures that test heart and lung function, such as stress tests. They may also draw blood samples from patients.