Respiratory therapists work under the supervision of a medical doctor. They are responsible many therapeutic treatments and diagnostic procedures. They work with patients who have conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. They also work with patients who have lung infections that result from chemical and smoke, as well as patients who are recovering from patients that have had strokes, heart attacks, shock, or drowning. Hence, a primary responsibility is to ensure that they maintaining the patients oxygen levels.
Respiratory therapists also perform diagnostic tests and procedures. They provide breathing treatments and respiratory care, and intensive care services, care for chronically ill patients and those on life support. They also train their patients to use respiratory equipment. In other cases they may be required to supervise other staff for example respiratory technicians and respiratory assistants.
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