Unleashing the Potential: Respiratory Therapists at the Crossroads of Public and Digital Health in India
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: the application of oxygen therapy, bronchodilator therapy, chest physiotherapy, and mechanical ventilation in acute care as well as chronic care setup.Their competence in administering these therapies and monitoring their impact on patients is vital for ensuring optimal care.For prevalent respiratory conditions like asthma, respiratory therapists provide comprehensive support, educating patients on inhaler techniques, identifying environmental triggers, and advising on lifestyle modifications.In managing COPD, they offer holistic care, incorporating pulmonary rehabilitation programs and providing smoking cessation support to enhance the quality of life for the affected individuals.Critical skills in intubation and mechanical ventilation empower respiratory therapists to manage patients with severe respiratory failure, adjust ventilator settings, and closely monitor ventilated patients to ensure optimal outcomes.Proficiency in arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis enables respiratory therapists to interpret results accurately, assessing a patient's acid-base balance and ventilation and oxygenation status.This diagnostic capability enhances the precision of their interventions.An indispensable aspect of their role lies in patient education, where they impart knowledge on respiratory conditions, medications, inhaler techniques, and lifestyle modifications, ultimately improving patient compliance and outcomes.Given their integral position in healthcare, respiratory therapists possess expertise in infection control practices.This includes adherence to hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and maintaining aseptic conditions during procedures.Their competence extends to the management and troubleshooting of respiratory equipment, such as oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, and ventilators, ensuring optimal functionality and safety.Trained
Authors: Madhuragauri Shevade, Swapnil Gadhave
Institution: IIHMR University
Language: English
Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4390948383