The specialist who manages everything from oxygen to ventilators.
A respiratory therapist is a clinician who specializes in your lungs and airway. They manage the equipment that helps you breathe when your own lungs need extra support. If you are in the intensive care unit, they are the ones who check your settings to ensure your body gets the right amount of oxygen.
When a patient cannot breathe on their own, a doctor orders a mechanical ventilator. The therapist sets up this machine and programs it to match your specific respiratory needs. They monitor the machine around the clock to make sure it functions safely and responds to any changes in your lung health.
Therapists frequently give medications that go directly into your lungs. They often use a nebulizer, which turns liquid medicine into a fine mist you inhale through a mask or mouthpiece. This is a common way to deliver drugs that open your airways during an asthma attack or a bout of bronchitis.
Your doctor may order tests to measure how much air your lungs can hold or how quickly you can move air in and out. The respiratory therapist performs these pulmonary function tests and gathers the data for your medical team. This information helps us decide if your treatment plan is working or if we need to adjust your medications.
Before you go home, the therapist teaches you how to use your home oxygen or inhalers. They ensure you feel confident managing your equipment without constant help from a nurse. Their goal is to make sure your lungs are stable so you can return to your daily activities safely.