What is the Role of the Respiratory Therapist?
• Evaluating and monitoring the proper operation of the resident’s ventilator and artificial airway. • Overseeing and assessing the resident’s progress with weaning. Weaning is the process of reducing a resident’s dependence on the Ventilator • Administering medications that improve and maximize lung function • Ensuring the resident’s changing oxygen needs are met Additionally, in conjunction with the rest of the care team, the Respiratory Therapists set weaning schedules, work with the resident and their family to maximize their goals and also assist the residents with their daily activities and outings. What is a Ventilator? A Ventilator or Vent is a machine that breathes for someone that can’t breathe for themselves. There are several reasons why someone may not be able to breathe on their own: • A neuromuscular disease that weakens the respiratory muscles • Paralysis • Respiratory weakness as a result of a major surgery What Does Weaning Mean? Weaning is the process of helping a pa
