Respiratory therapist

A respiratory therapist treats patients with breathing and lung problems, managing ventilators, oxygen, airway care, and breathing treatments in settings from intensive care to the home. The work is hands-on and often urgent, responding to patients in respiratory distress and adjusting support in real time.

The role combines technical mastery of equipment with bedside clinical judgement at high stakes. Protocols can automate some ventilator weaning, but airway management and physical bedside care keep the role resistant.