Cardiopulmonary pathology is the study of diseases that affect the heart and lungs. Some examples include: Congestive heart failure (CHF) Asthma COPD Pneumonia Cystic fibrosis Respiratory therapists are responsible for treating patients with these conditions, which is...
An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in a patient’s blood. It is used to check the acid-base balance and oxygen saturation of arterial blood. It should go without saying that respiratory therapists (and students) must be...
Respiratory therapists are known for diagnosing and treating adults, but they must also provide care for neonatal and pediatric patients. This involves learning the key differences in how the respiratory system develops and functions at various stages in life. It also...
Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is a set of noninvasive diagnostic tests used to measure how well the lungs are functioning. Respiratory therapists are responsible for administering these tests and interpreting the results, which is why students must develop an...
Patient assessment refers to the process of gathering information about a patient’s health status in order to make an informed decision about their care. This usually includes: Taking a medical history Performing a physical examination Ordering diagnostic tests...
Respiratory pharmacology is the study of the effects of drugs on the lungs and pulmonary system. Respiratory therapists are required to know which drugs should be administered to patients with certain respiratory diseases. This means that respiratory therapy students...
