Did you know that more than 100 million Americans have been diagnosed with a respiratory disorder? That equates to about 1 in 3 Americans suffering from a respiratory condition.¹

Respiratory therapists are essential in providing the necessary treatment and care for those with respiratory illnesses. In order for respiratory therapists to provide great care for their patients, the proper equipment must be used. Here is more information on respiratory therapy and the equipment respiratory therapists work with.

What is Respiratory Therapy?

Respiratory therapy is the treatment and management of pulmonary diseases by trained respiratory therapists. Respiratory therapy can be done at long-term care facilities, clinics, and hospitals.² Some examples of the conditions that can be treated with respiratory therapy include:

• Acute Respiratory Failure
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Lung Cancer
• Pneumonia
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Bronchitis³

Respiratory therapy treatment varies based on the type of respiratory condition the patient has. For example, those who have chronic respiratory conditions can receive oxygen therapy, medication management, aerobic and resistance exercises, walking, and deep breathing exercises.⁴

What Equipment Do Respiratory Therapists Work With?

The equipment that respiratory therapists work with can vary based on the disease and condition they are being treated for. Here are some examples of the equipment that respiratory therapists work with.

Pulse Oximeters. Pulse oximeters are small devices that clip onto a person’s finger and are used by respiratory therapists to gain a better understanding of their patient’s blood oxygen levels.

Breathing Trainers. Breathing trainers consist of a tube and ball in which the patient blows into the tube, causing the ball to go upwards. Respiratory therapists can gauge how well their patient’s lung function is by seeing how high the ball goes.

Inhalers. Inhalers are a way for patients to get powered medication into their lungs. Based on assessment and respiratory conditions, respiratory therapists will determine which type of inhaler they need.⁵

Nebulizers. Nebulizers are larger versions of inhalers that deliver liquid medication into the patient’s lungs. Respiratory therapists are trained on how to properly use this equipment and help their patients dispense the medication into their lungs.

Ventilators. Ventilators are used for respiratory therapy patients who are unable to breathe on their own. Respiratory therapists have knowledge of how to properly prepare and use this equipment, monitor their patient’s condition while on the ventilator, and be aware of any signs of leaks.⁶