WEBVTT

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When it comes to health, there’s

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nothing more fundamental than breathing.

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Respiratory therapists support all aspects of

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patients’ breathing and lung functions.

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Respiratory therapists work with patients to

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make sure they are breathing

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as comfortably as possible and

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receiving adequate oxygen…

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whether patients have a chronic lung disease…

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underdeveloped lungs at birth…

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or are recovering from trauma

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such as a heart attack or near-drowning.

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Respiratory therapists monitor

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and perform tests to assess

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patients’ lung capacity, and

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assist with treatments such as

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nebulizers -- devices that administer

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medications into the lungs.

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They also assist with placement of

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breathing tubes and with drawing arterial

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blood to assess patient oxygen levels.

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Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals.

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There, much of their time is spent

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operating mechanical ventilators

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for patients with breathing tubes.

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They also work in long-term care facilities.

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These healthcare professionals generally

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work full time, and may work

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evenings, weekends, and serve on call.

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Respiratory therapists generally need

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at least an associate’s degree in

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respiratory therapy, and a license to practice.

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Some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree.