What does a respiratory therapist do on a daily basis?

A respiratory therapist performs patient assessments and devises treatment plans, conducts respiratory treatments, and documents patient care on a daily basis. Here are some details on the common daily activities of a respiratory therapist:

• Performs patient assessments. Respiratory therapists evaluate and assess patients that have breathing issues, disorders, and cardiopulmonary problems. This often involves physical exams, breathing tests, reviewing patient histories, and ordering and interpreting diagnostic exams.
• Develops treatment plans. Using the results of the patient assessments, respiratory therapists create treatment plans to help patients manage or improve their breathing functions. This might include oxygen therapy, chest physiotherapy, and mechanical ventilation. They must also monitor all active patient treatment plans.
• Conducts respiratory treatments, and documents patient care. During the repository treatment process, it is important for respiratory therapists to document the progress and status of the patient. This is a daily activity, and one that might involve detailed notes of treatment plans, medical histories, progress notes, and medication notes.