The 25+ Tools Used by Respiratory Therapists at Work (2025)

Respiratory therapists are vital healthcare professionals who specialize in treating patients with breathing disorders, ranging from chronic conditions like asthma and COPD to acute emergencies such as trauma and COVID-19.

To effectively manage and treat these conditions, they rely on a diverse array of tools and equipment, each designed to assist in diagnosing, monitoring, and providing therapeutic care.

This article explores the essential tools and equipment used by respiratory therapists, highlighting how these instruments contribute to better patient outcomes and enhanced healthcare delivery.

List of Tools and Equipment Used by Respiratory Therapists

Here is a detailed list of the tools and equipment that respiratory therapists use, each serving a distinct purpose in diagnosing, managing, and treating breathing disorders:

1. Stethoscope

A stethoscope is an essential tool for respiratory therapists, used to listen to the sounds of the lungs and heart.

It helps detect abnormalities such as wheezing, crackles, and diminished breath sounds, which can indicate conditions like pneumonia, asthma, or other respiratory disorders.

By providing an auditory assessment of a patient’s respiratory status, the stethoscope aids in the accurate diagnosis and monitoring of breathing issues.

2. Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like device typically placed on a patient’s finger to measure oxygen saturation levels in the blood.

This tool provides real-time data on oxygen levels, which is crucial for assessing respiratory function and monitoring patient status.

It allows respiratory therapists to quickly adjust treatments and ensure that patients receive adequate oxygenation, especially in critical care settings.

3. Mechanical Ventilator

A mechanical ventilator is a life-saving device used when patients are unable to breathe independently. It delivers pressurized air to the patient’s lungs, helping maintain adequate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Respiratory therapists are experts in managing mechanical ventilators, adjusting settings to meet individual patient needs, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.

Note: This tool is essential in intensive care units and during anesthesia for surgeries.

4. Scrubs

Scrubs are the standard uniform for respiratory therapists and are designed for comfort and hygiene during long shifts.

Made from easy-to-clean materials, scrubs help maintain a sterile environment and are often changed frequently to prevent the spread of pathogens. They also provide comfort and flexibility, allowing therapists to move freely while performing their duties.

5. Lab Coat

Lab coats are worn over scrubs as an additional protective layer against bodily fluids and contaminants. With multiple pockets for storing essential tools like pens, notepads, and small medical instruments, lab coats offer convenience and functionality.

They are an important part of infection control, helping to protect both the therapist and the patient from potential exposure to infectious agents.

6. Nebulizer

A nebulizer is a device that delivers medication in the form of a mist that patients inhale directly into their lungs.

This method is particularly effective for treating conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where medication needs to reach the airways quickly to reduce inflammation and ease breathing.

Nebulizers are commonly used in both acute care settings and for at-home treatments, providing respiratory therapists with a reliable method for administering bronchodilators and other medications.

7. Inhaler

Inhalers are handheld devices that deliver medication directly to the lungs in a compact and portable form. They are essential for the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.

Inhalers come in different types, such as metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) and dry powder inhalers (DPIs), each requiring proper technique for maximum effectiveness.

Respiratory therapists educate patients on how to use inhalers correctly to ensure they receive the full benefit of their prescribed medications.

8. Clipboard

A clipboard is a simple yet indispensable tool for respiratory therapists, providing a sturdy writing surface for taking notes and keeping patient records organized.

It allows therapists to carry essential paperwork, treatment plans, and patient information efficiently as they move between patient rooms.

During rounds or assessments, a clipboard ensures that important details are recorded accurately and are easily accessible when needed.

9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes items such as masks, gloves, goggles, and gowns that are critical for protecting respiratory therapists from exposure to infectious diseases and harmful substances.

Given the close contact therapists often have with patients and the handling of respiratory secretions, PPE is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing the spread of infections.

Proper use of PPE ensures the well-being of both healthcare providers and patients in various clinical settings.

10. Shoes

Comfortable and supportive shoes are essential for respiratory therapists who spend long hours on their feet in fast-paced environments.

These shoes often have non-slip soles for safety and are made of materials that can be easily cleaned to maintain hygiene in clinical settings. Good footwear helps prevent foot fatigue, supports overall posture, and reduces the risk of injuries during busy shifts.

11. Compression Socks

Compression socks are specialized hosiery that apply gentle pressure to the lower legs, promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling.

For respiratory therapists who often spend long shifts on their feet, compression socks can help alleviate leg fatigue and prevent conditions like varicose veins.

By improving venous return, these socks enhance comfort and endurance, allowing therapists to focus on delivering patient care without the distraction of leg discomfort.

12. Syringe

Syringes are crucial tools used by respiratory therapists, particularly when performing arterial blood gas (ABG) tests. These tests involve drawing a sample of arterial blood using a syringe to measure oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, as well as acid-base balance.

The data obtained from ABG tests are vital for assessing a patient’s respiratory status and guiding treatment decisions, especially in critical care settings.

13. Watch

A reliable wristwatch, often with a second hand, is a must-have for respiratory therapists. It is used to time a patient’s heart rate and respiratory rate accurately and helps keep track of treatment schedules during busy shifts.

Watches enable therapists to measure vital signs precisely, ensuring they provide timely and effective interventions to their patients.

14. Badge Reel

Badge reels are handy accessories for respiratory therapists, used to carry ID cards and access cards. They attach to clothing, such as scrubs or lab coats, allowing the card to be easily pulled out for use and then retracted back into place.

Badge reels keep essential identification and access tools secure and convenient, ensuring therapists can navigate healthcare facilities efficiently and safely.

15. Laryngoscope

A laryngoscope is a medical device used to visualize the larynx and facilitate intubation procedures. During intubation, an endotracheal tube is inserted into a patient’s trachea to secure the airway, especially in emergency or surgical situations.

Respiratory therapists are skilled in using laryngoscopes to ensure proper placement of the tube, providing critical airway management and ventilation support for patients in need.

16. Spirometer

A spirometer is a diagnostic tool used to measure lung function by assessing the volume and flow of air that a patient can inhale and exhale.

This information is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other restrictive lung diseases.

Respiratory therapists use spirometers to conduct pulmonary function tests (PFTs), which help evaluate the effectiveness of treatment plans and monitor disease progression.

17. Nasal Cannula

A nasal cannula is a device used to deliver supplemental oxygen to patients who need assistance maintaining adequate oxygen levels. It consists of a flexible tube with two small prongs that fit into the nostrils, allowing for continuous oxygen flow.

Respiratory therapists are responsible for ensuring the correct oxygen flow rate and monitoring the patient’s response, making nasal cannulas a vital tool in both acute and chronic care settings.

18. Suction Catheter

A suction catheter is a medical tool used to remove mucus and other secretions from a patient’s airways. It is particularly useful for patients who have difficulty clearing their airways due to conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, or sedation.

Respiratory therapists use suction catheters to maintain airway patency and prevent respiratory complications by ensuring the airways remain clear of obstructions.

19. Penlight

A penlight is a small, portable flashlight used by respiratory therapists for various assessments and examinations. It is commonly used to check pupil response, examine the throat and mouth, and assess skin integrity.

The compact size and ease of use make penlights a convenient tool for quick, on-the-spot evaluations, helping therapists gather important clinical information about a patient’s condition.

20. Bronchoscope

A bronchoscope is a specialized instrument used for visualizing the inside of a patient’s airways and lungs.

This tool is often used in procedures known as bronchoscopies, where respiratory therapists assist physicians in diagnosing and treating airway abnormalities, obstructions, or infections.

Bronchoscopes can also be used to obtain tissue samples or remove foreign bodies, making them a critical component of respiratory care.

21. Flutter Valve

A flutter valve, also known as an acapella device, is a handheld tool used to help clear mucus from the airways. It creates positive expiratory pressure (PEP) and vibrations that loosen mucus, making it easier for patients to cough it up.

This device is particularly useful for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or other conditions that lead to mucus buildup.

Respiratory therapists often instruct patients on how to use the flutter valve effectively as part of their airway clearance therapy.

22. Electrocardiogram (EKG)

An electrocardiogram (EKG) machine records the electrical activity of the heart and is an essential tool for monitoring cardiac function in patients with respiratory issues.

Respiratory therapists may use EKG machines to assess heart rhythm and detect any cardiac abnormalities that could impact a patient’s respiratory status.

This tool is crucial for identifying conditions such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other heart-related issues that may require immediate intervention.

23. Oxygen Tanks

Oxygen tanks are portable containers that store compressed oxygen, providing a critical supply for patients who require supplemental oxygen therapy.

These tanks are used in various settings, from hospital rooms to emergency transport, ensuring that patients have access to life-saving oxygen whenever needed.

Respiratory therapists manage the use of oxygen tanks by setting appropriate flow rates and ensuring patient safety during therapy.

24. Ambu Bag

An Ambu bag, also known as a bag-valve-mask (BVM), is a manual resuscitation device used to provide positive pressure ventilation to patients who are not breathing adequately.

They are essential for emergency situations, allowing respiratory therapists to deliver breaths to patients in respiratory distress or cardiac arrest.

Ambu bags are used in conjunction with other airway management tools, providing immediate and effective ventilation support when needed.

25. Egan’s Textbook

Egan’s Fundamentals of Respiratory Care is a comprehensive textbook that serves as a foundational resource for respiratory therapists. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic science and respiratory care principles to advanced clinical practices.

This textbook is an essential tool for both students and practicing therapists, offering up-to-date information and guidelines that support effective patient care and professional development.

FAQs About the Tools Used by Respiratory Therapists

What Accessories Do Respiratory Therapists Use?

Respiratory therapists use a variety of accessories to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Some common accessories include stethoscopes for auscultating lung sounds, penlights for examinations, and badge reels for carrying identification and access cards.

They also use clipboards to organize patient records and take notes, and watches with second hands to monitor vital signs accurately.

Comfortable, supportive shoes and compression socks are also essential accessories that help therapists withstand long hours on their feet.

What Medical Devices Do Respiratory Therapists Use?

Respiratory therapists utilize a wide range of medical devices to diagnose, monitor, and treat respiratory conditions.

These devices include mechanical ventilators for providing life-supporting ventilation, pulse oximeters for measuring oxygen saturation, and nebulizers and inhalers for administering medication.

Other important devices include spirometers for assessing lung function, CPAP and BiPAP machines for managing sleep apnea and respiratory distress, and bronchoscopy equipment for examining the airways.

Note: Each of these devices plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal respiratory care.

What Tools are Needed for Respiratory Assessment?

For an effective respiratory assessment, several tools are essential. A stethoscope is crucial for listening to lung sounds and identifying abnormalities.

A pulse oximeter is used to measure oxygen saturation levels, providing insights into a patient’s respiratory function. A spirometer is employed to conduct pulmonary function tests, assessing lung volumes and airflow.

Additionally, penlights are used for examining the throat and mouth, and a blood pressure cuff is often included to check vital signs. These tools collectively enable respiratory therapists to conduct thorough assessments and make informed clinical decisions.

What Tools are Used to Measure Respiration?

To measure respiration effectively, respiratory therapists use a variety of tools that assess different aspects of breathing. A spirometer is commonly used to measure lung volumes and airflow, helping diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD.

A pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation in the blood, providing insight into how well a patient is breathing. Capnographs are used to measure end-tidal carbon dioxide levels, indicating how effectively carbon dioxide is being expelled from the body.

Do Respiratory Therapists Use Needles?

Yes, respiratory therapists do use needles, particularly when performing arterial blood gas (ABG) tests. This procedure involves using a needle and syringe to draw a sample of arterial blood, which is then analyzed to assess oxygen, carbon dioxide levels, and acid-base balance.

The information obtained from ABG tests is crucial for evaluating a patient’s respiratory status and guiding treatment decisions.

In some settings, respiratory therapists may also assist with other procedures that involve needles, such as administering certain medications or participating in research.

What are the Most Essential Respiratory Therapy Tools?

The most essential respiratory therapy tools include stethoscopes for auscultating lung sounds, pulse oximeters for monitoring oxygen saturation, and mechanical ventilators for providing life-supporting ventilation to patients who cannot breathe independently.

Spirometers are vital for conducting pulmonary function tests, while nebulizers and inhalers are crucial for delivering medications directly to the lungs.

Additional essential tools include CPAP and BiPAP machines for managing sleep apnea, and suction catheters for clearing airway obstructions.

Note: These tools are indispensable for diagnosing, monitoring, and treating patients with respiratory conditions, enabling therapists to deliver effective and efficient care.

Final Thoughts

These tools and equipment are among the most common and essential items used by respiratory therapists to diagnose, monitor, and treat patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

While this list highlights the critical instruments that enable respiratory therapists to provide effective care, it only scratches the surface of what they actually use on the job.

With advancements in technology and the evolving landscape of healthcare, respiratory therapists continuously integrate new tools and techniques into their practice to improve patient outcomes and adapt to the demands of modern medicine.

The comprehensive skill set of respiratory therapists, combined with their extensive toolkit, makes them indispensable members of the healthcare team.