About Respiratory Therapists

Breathing is something most people do without even thinking about it, just like blinking. But for thousands of Canadians, it’s much harder. Some struggle because of injuries, while others have health conditions like asthma or emphysema that make breathing difficult. Premature babies with underdeveloped lungs, as well as heart attack or stroke patients, also often need help to breathe. That’s where respiratory therapists come in—they are important members of the healthcare team who specialize in helping people with breathing problems. They provide treatments, support, and care to make sure patients can breathe as easily as possible. Respiratory Therapists play a vital role on the healthcare team.

Respiratory therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in helping people with cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) problems. They take care of patients with heart and lung issues by using advanced medical tools and techniques. Their job is to support people who are critically ill, provide treatment and education to those with chronic conditions, and assist in emergencies.

Here's what they do:

• Treat patients that have experienced trauma or are in surgery or intensive care
• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Make sure high-risk patients being moved by air or ground ambulance are stable
• Assist at difficult births when newborns struggle to breathe
• Help with anesthesia during surgeries
• Give patients medicine and oxygen therapy
• Perform lung function tests
• Provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Provide respiratory care to adults and children and babies at hospitals, clinics, and even at home
• Provide education to patients, members of other healthcare professions, and the public

Where do Respiratory Therapists work?

Respiratory therapists work in many different places, including hospitals, clinics, labs, and even in patients' homes. You’ll find them caring for newborns in nurseries, helping during surgeries in operating rooms, and assisting patients in intensive care units and emergency departments. They also provide treatment in rehabilitation centers and community healthcare clinics. Because they often work in high-pressure situations, they need to make quick, smart decisions, communicate well with others, and stay calm even in emergencies.