"A respiratory therapist is a specialized healthcare practitioner trained in critical care and cardio-pulmonary medicine in order to work therapeutically with people who have acute critical conditions, cardiac and pulmonary disease."
Study of the therapeutic interventions used to manage respiratory tract disorders such as oxygen therapy, airway clearance techniques and breathing exercises.
Anatomy of the respiratory system: Explores the structure and function of the lungs, bronchi, trachea, diaphragm, and other respiratory organs. It includes the various parts of the respiratory system, such as the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, and trachea.
Physiology of the respiratory system: Delves into how the respiratory system works, including the processes of ventilation, oxygenation, and carbon dioxide removal, as well as the role of the nervous system and other factors that influence breathing.
Respiratory mechanics: Looks at the physical principles that govern the movement of air in and out of the lungs, such as pressure differentials, gas laws, and lung compliance.
Gas exchange: Examines how oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in the lungs and the body's tissues, including the role of respiratory gases in cellular metabolism.
Pulmonary function tests: Discusses the various diagnostic tests and procedures used to assess lung function, such as spirometry, peak flow measurement, and arterial blood gas analysis.
Common respiratory diseases: Covers the most common diseases of the respiratory system, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, pneumonia, and lung cancer. It also includes the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for these conditions.
Respiratory therapy modalities: Looks at the different clinical interventions used to manage respiratory diseases and improve lung function, including oxygen therapy, secretion clearance techniques, mechanical ventilation, and positive airway pressure.
Pharmacology of respiratory therapies: Explores the medications used to treat respiratory diseases and improve lung function, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and antifungal agents.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: Discusses the multidisciplinary approach to managing chronic respiratory diseases, including exercise, nutrition, education, and psychosocial support.
Current research and practice guidelines: Looks at the latest advances in respiratory therapy research, as well as the evidence-based guidelines for diagnosing, managing, and preventing respiratory diseases.
Oxygen therapy: Oxygen is administered to the patient through a mask or nasal cannula to increase oxygen levels in the blood.
Bronchodilator therapy: Medications such as albuterol are administered either through a nebulizer or inhaler to relax the smooth muscles in the airway, allowing for easier breathing.
Chest physiotherapy: This involves techniques such as percussion, vibration, and postural drainage to help loosen and remove mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe.
Positive pressure ventilation: A machine delivers air or oxygen to the lungs under pressure to help the patient breathe.
BiPAP/CPAP therapy: Patients with sleep apnea use a machine that delivers air under continuous pressure to keep the airway open while sleeping.
Lung transplant: For patients with end-stage lung disease, a transplant may be necessary to improve respiratory function.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: An exercise program designed to improve lung function and overall fitness in patients with chronic respiratory conditions.
Artificial lung: In cases where lung function is severely compromised, an artificial lung may be used to provide respiratory support until the patient's lungs recover or a transplant can be performed.
Mechanical ventilation: This involves a machine that breathes for the patient through a tube inserted into the airway.
Tracheostomy: A surgery to create a hole in the neck and insert a tube directly into the trachea, bypassing any upper airway obstruction.
Oxygen supplementation: Additional oxygen is delivered through nasal cannula, or high pressure mask.
Antibiotics: Administered to treat bacterial infections that affect the respiratory system.
Anti-inflammatory medicines: To reduce the inflammation and irritation of the airways.
Expectorants: Help patients expel mucus from the respiratory tract.
Antitussive: To suppress a cough.
Analgesics: Medication to manage pain.
Mucolytics: To facilitate the removal of mucus from the airways.
Anti-allergens: To reduce allergic reactions.
Immunoglobulins: Helps the body fight infections by boosting the immune system.
Diuretics: To help get rid of excess fluids in the body.