What does a Respiratory Therapist do?
Respiratory therapists, also known as respiratory care practitioners, evaluate, monitor, and manage patients with breathing disorders and/or cardiovascular problems.
All of the respiratory therapist employed at Doctors Memorial Hospital are licensed by the state of Florida and are required to obtain 24 hours of continuing education every two years with their license renewal.
Which patient types commonly need Respiratory Therapy?
Those who struggle with breathing difficulties to include: asthma, COPD, emphysema, sleep apnea, and congestive heart failure.
Services provided include the following:
- Oxygen Therapy
- Aerosol Therapy
- Incentive Spirometry
- Breathing exercises
- Chest Physiotherapy
- Sputum Induction and/or collection
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Pulse Oximetry
- Arterial Blood Gases
- Intubations
- Nasotracheal, Endotracheal, and Tracheostomy tube suctioning
- Electrocardiograms (EKG)
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFT)
- BIPAP/CPAP
- Tracheostomy care and teaching
- Holter Monitors (3 to 28 days)
- Patient education regarding all aspects of respiratory care
Director – Regina Culbreath, RRT
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8-4:30
Department Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week