Medscape: The Expanding Scope of the Respiratory Therapist

Sophia Morris, EVP of client fulfillment, discussed the need for respiratory therapists.

“At Aya Healthcare, a California-based staffing and workforce solutions company, hospitals and other healthcare facilities are currently seeking more therapists due to increased prevalence of chronic respiratory issues in middle-aged and older patients.”

Benjamin is originally from South Dakota and he’s been an Aya traveler since November 2020. He discussed how RTs have evolved from being just task-oriented individuals to becoming key clinical decision-makers.

“Among their providers is Benjamin Cisneros, RT, who, over the past 10 years said his duties and influence as a member of the care team have continued to progress.

Respiratory therapists are the Swiss army knives of the hospital, said Cisneros, a per-diem therapist working in Los Angeles. Many hospitals are now encouraging, or even requiring, bachelor’s or master’s degrees. With expanded autonomy, we’re shaping care plans, making critical recommendations, and being recognized as the pulmonary experts that we are. We respond to emergencies, assist in diagnoses, manage chronic respiratory conditions, educate patients, and support special procedures.

He said the experience that he’s acquired combined with his education continues to open doors to various employment opportunities. I can become a preceptor or a mentor, he said. Or I could pursue being a resource or team leader.”

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