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\"Respiratory Therapists: A Practical Career Guide, which includes interviews with professionals in this field book, covers the following medical technician careers: emergency respiratory therapy, adult respiratory therapy, pediatric respiratory therapy, and geriatric respiratory therapy\"-- Provided by publisher.

Purpose This national study aimed to investigate the lung ultrasound (LUS) training and practice of respiratory therapists (RTs) in mainland China. Methods A cross-sectional multicenter survey was conducted from May 22, 2021 to August 12, 2021, through online platforms. This survey included RTs in mainland China. The survey was divided into four sections: (1) demographic characteristics and basic information; (2) basic information about LUS training and practice; (3) LUS practice details; and (4) Other ultrasound training and practice. Results A total of 514 responses were received, and 494 valid responses were included in the analysis. 81.2% (401/494) participants’ highest degree of education was a bachelor’s degree, and 43.1% (213/494) participants were at level II in terms of job ranking. 99.2%(490/494) participants agreed that the RTs needed to learn lung ultrasound, but only 12.3% (61/494) participants had received a LUS training course. Further, 66.2% (327/494) experienced participants responded to Sect. 3. Most of RTs used LUS when the patient had hypoxia (265/327, 81%) or dyspnea (260/317, 79.5%); they also used it during spontaneous breathing trial(SBT) (191/327, 58.4%) or in prone position (177/327, 54.1%). The A-line (302/327, 92.4%), B-line (299/327, 91.4%), lung slide (263/327, 80.4%), and bat sign (259/327, 79.2%) were well known as LUS signs. Also, 30.6% (100/327) participants did not use the LUS protocol in their clinical practice, and only 25.4%(83/327) participants said they had used LUS scores. Moreover, 55.7% (182/327) participants frequently changed the respiratory therapy strategy according to LUS results. Conclusions We should improve the number and workplace of RTs in mainland China in the future. We should also standardize the application of LUS practice and training for RTs in mainland China and establish corresponding certification pathways.

Health care systems were subjected to an unprecedented surge of critically ill patients with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which required management by Respiratory Therapists (RTs). Despite the high level of burnout reported in this health care professional group, we have limited knowledge about the lived experience of RTs during the pandemic. This study aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 on RTs in Ontario, Canada. We conducted a qualitative exploratory, descriptive study by conducting virtual semi-structured interviews and focus groups with RTs between March 2023 and June 2023. Two coders analyzed the data using thematic analysis. Twenty-seven RTs participated in the study, with the majority being female (n = 25), averaging 16.4 years of practice (range 4 to 36 years), primarily in acute care settings (n = 23). We identified four themes and lessons learned from the perspective of RTs: (1) Working in the shadow and suffering in silence reflecting varying perceptions of recognition; (2) Flying blind amidst the buzz reflecting the rapid pace of changing policies and practices as COVID-19 gained global attention; (3) Putting out fires in the face of overflowing hospitals reflecting increased workload and staffing issues; and (4) Managing tensions , both external and internal reflecting how RTs coped with distressing workplace situations and their mental well-being. Finally, lessons learned from the RTs include 1) Mobilizing early and consistently during an emergency, which addresses staff concerns; 2) Prioritizing and investing in the mental health and well-being of RTs; 3) Implementing strategies to retain experienced staff in healthcare; and 4) Involving RTs in leadership discussions. The COVID-19 stressors of RTs have illuminated the detrimental impact of the pandemic on this understudied health care profession. With this knowledge, targeted interventions can be developed to address RT recognition and staff retention and provide mental health support.

Background Respiratory therapy services commenced in Saudi Arabia (SA) in the mid-1970s. Since then, respiratory therapists have become integral members of the healthcare team. However, data about the characteristics and distribution of the respiratory therapy workforce in SA are limited. Therefore, the primary objective of this investigation is to examine the characteristics and distribution of respiratory therapy practitioners in SA. Methods This is a cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) database as of January 10, 2024. This includes all registered respiratory therapy practitioners. The available data include age, gender, highest qualification, professional ranking, geographical distribution, and employment status of respiratory therapy practitioners. Results The SCFHS database reveals that there are 5462 respiratory therapy practitioners registered with SCFHS. Females constitute 48% of respiratory therapy practitioners, and 85% of the entire workforce is under the age of 40. A Bachelor of Science degree is the highest academic qualification for 90% of these practitioners, with 75% professionally classified as specialists. The geographical distribution of the respiratory therapy workforce is uneven, with approximately 65% located in two regions: Riyadh and the Eastern province. Employment within this field is high, with 92% of practitioners currently employed. Conclusion The respiratory therapy workforce is witnessing steady growth, with the majority of respiratory therapy practitioners possessing a bachelor’s degree and classified as specialists professionally. Importantly, there is a clear imbalance in the distribution of these professionals across regions in SA.

Background Respiratory therapists (RT) are healthcare professionals who receive specialized training to apply evidence-based practices in managing pulmonary disorders. Despite global expansion of RT programs across Asia, there is only limited RT-specific research, compelling practitioners to often rely on research from other disciplines. This study explores research barriers among Asian RTs, investigates priority research topics, and examines perceptions regarding research involvement. Methods A cross-sectional survey, adapted with permission from a previously used US instrument, was conducted between November 2024 and March 2025. The questionnaire comprised five sections with 45 items covering demographics, research involvement, training, perceived barriers, motivators, and perceptions, including a 4-item scale assessing RTs’ roles and engagement in research. The instrument underwent expert review for content relevance and clarity but was not formally validated. Licensed RTs currently practicing in academic, clinical, or combined roles within Asian countries were eligible, while non-licensed individuals, students, and RTs practicing outside Asia were excluded. Recruitment occurred through professional organizations, academic and clinical institutions, and social media networks. Results Of 402 respondents from 11 Asian countries, 54.2% were female and 48.0% held bachelor’s degrees. Staff therapists comprised 58.8%, with 43.3% working in adult critical care. Although 54.5% had formal research training, only 35.6% reported mentorship, and half spent < 1 h weekly on research. Formal training was linked to higher publication output ( p  ≤ 0.001). Major barriers included lack of training ( n  = 109) and limited opportunities ( n  = 70), while lung ultrasound ( n  = 85) was the top priority and improving patient outcomes ( n  = 125) the strongest motivator. The perception scale demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.76). Male gender was a negative predictor (OR = 0.05; p  < 0.0001), whereas Master’s (OR = 21.37; p  < 0.001), Doctorate degrees (OR = 37.04; p  < 0.001), faculty positions (OR = 20.91; p  = 0.004), research funding (OR = 25.02; p  < 0.001), on-the-job training (OR = 36.07; p  = 0.01), and self-directed learning (OR = 7.30; p  = 0.03) significantly increased engagement. Conclusion Limited training, time constraints, and lack of mentorship are key barriers to research among RTs in Asia, along with a gap between research priorities and available resources. Given the study’s cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, the results should be interpreted cautiously. Nonetheless, the findings emphasize the need for institutional support, mentorship, and research development initiatives to strengthen evidence-based practice and improve patient outcomes across the region.

Background Tracheostomy care is a critical aspect of respiratory therapy, requiring specialized knowledge and adherence to standardized protocols to ensure optimal patient outcomes. However, variations in practice and a lack of formalized guidelines may contribute to inconsistencies in tracheostomy management. Therefore, this study aimed to assess clinical practices, self-confidence, and perceived barriers in tracheostomy care among respiratory therapists (RTs) in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey was distributed from June to October 2024 among RTs in Saudi Arabia. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to identify key trends and associations. Results A total of 1,012 RTs participated in the study, with the majority being male (588, 58.1%). Tracheostomy care was available in 90.7% of hospitals, although 22.4% reported the absence of specific protocols. Formal training in tracheostomy care was limited, with only 42.3% of RTs receiving 1–5 h of instruction. Attitude of evidence-based practices was generally positive, as 59.9% of respondents felt up to date with current guidelines. Confidence levels in managing tracheostomy patients were notably low (20.9%) and slightly higher for ventilator-assisted patients (23.6%). To enhance skills, 53.6% of RTs visited specialist centers, and many participated in conferences (52.2%) and workshops (49.2%). The most significant barriers to incorporating tracheostomy care into RT services included lack of knowledge (70.7%), inadequate training (59.7%), and the absence of standardized protocols (59.6%). Conclusion Although RTs demonstrated a solid understanding of tracheostomy care, variations in clinical practices and confidence levels were observed, primarily due to the absence of standardized protocols and formal training. Implementing targeted educational initiatives and developing clear protocols could significantly improve the quality of tracheostomy care and enhance patient outcomes.

Respiratory care is a relatively new field of study that emerged in the last century, focusing on the provision of diagnostic, management, and treatment services for patients with respiratory diseases. Given its significance, expanding research in this field is essential to better understand the impact of management and treatment strategies, as well as the role of education. This study aims to explore perceived barriers that hinder Saudi respiratory therapists from conducting research within the respiratory care field in Saudi Arabia. This study was employed a cross-sectional design to examines the obstacles to respiratory care research in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaires contained three parts: demographic profile, 18 statements measured via 5 points-Likert's scale and three open-ended questions. A total of 124 respiratory therapist were participated in this study. SPSS was utilized for part one and two, while thematic analysis was utilized for open-ended questions. The findings reveal that insufficient institutional resources, time constraints, and the lack of incentives and recognition were the major barriers for conducting research. The participants proposed solutions to overcome these barriers such as financial support, reduced workload, continuous workshops to enhance research skills, and organizational recognition through incentives and rewards. Our study offers a holistic view of the barriers encountered by individuals working in the field of respiratory care who wish to conduct research.

Respiratory therapists (RTs) play a vital role in healthcare, specializing in the treatment and management of heart and lung conditions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the importance of RTs, little attention has been paid to RTs in the Chinese health system. This study aimed to understand and describe the work experiences and career development expectations of RTs in China. This study utilized a qualitative research design and conducted semi-structured, in-depth, audio-recorded interviews with 16 RTs aged 28-40 years, purposively selected from six regions in mainland China from May to June 2024. Qualitative thematic content analysis was conducted to identify and group the themes that emerged from the discourse. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified: (1) \"Complex Career Motivation\" delves into the career trajectories and role adaptations of RTs; (2) \"Positive Career Feedback\" explores feelings of job satisfaction and career accomplishments; (3) \"Uncertain Career Predicament\" sheds light on the negative impact of multidimensional career challenges; (4) \"Demand-Driven Future Outlook\" reflects RTs' urgent expectations for professional advancement. The barriers and facilitators in the professional journey of Chinese RTs maintain a fragile balance, and the future development of the profession may determine whether they can persist in their careers. Healthcare managers and leaders should pay attention to the real needs of RTs, enhance their professional confidence, and adopt effective coping strategies to avoid the loss of human resources and promote the development of the professional team.

Introduction Nurses and respiratory therapists working on the frontline during the pandemic surge were short-staffed and worked extended hours while adding new tasks to already demanding workloads. As the world watched news covering COVID-19's effect, nurses and respiratory therapists lived through the daily stress of treating each patient with care, dignity, and compassion. Limited studies have focused on this population, which is vital to providing care and saving lives; research is needed to understand nurses’ and respiratory therapists’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective The study aimed to understand nurses’ and respiratory therapists’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A qualitative descriptive study, informed by naturalistic philosophy, was designed to obtain a detailed account of participants’ experiences during the pandemic surge. A purposive sample was recruited and enrolled from the community through professional organizations and snowball sampling from December 2021 to September 2022. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Participants were seven registered nurses and six respiratory therapists employed full-time in an intensive care unit, step-down intensive care unit, emergency department, or medical-surgical unit; seven (53.8%) with an associate degree, and six (46.2%) with a bachelor's degree. Eight (66.7%) self-identified as White, one Asian, one non-Hispanic Black, and two Pacific Islanders. The mean age was 40, and 10 (76.9%) were female. Six primary themes emerged: (a) the work–life experience before the COVID-19 pandemic, (b) the work–life experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, (c) the personal life experience during COVID-19, (d) the coping period, (e) the professional role change, and (f) the work and personal life experiences post COVID-19 surge. Conclusion The knowledge gained from this study can help improve understanding of the professional quality of life, the need for organizational and community support, and for healthcare professionals to seek help and practice self-care to prevent burnout and secondary traumatic stress.

Background/Objectives: Studies have demonstrated significant morbidity and mortality associated with airway management, especially when provided outside of the operative setting. The goal of this study was to compare baseline measurements of airway management procedures between anesthesia providers (CRNAs and anesthesiologists) and respiratory therapists using high-fidelity manikins. Methods: This prospective study assessed anesthesia providers and respiratory therapists performing direct laryngoscopy (DL), video laryngoscopy (VL), and LMA placement. The same Laerdal SimMan high-fidelity manikin (Laerdal, Stavanger, Norway) was used in all assessments, with the detection of end-tidal “carbon dioxide” serving as evidence of success for each procedure. Each procedure was performed twice, once under “Healthy Patient” SimMan settings, and once under the “Limited Cervical Range of Motion (ROM)” (DL), “Pharyngeal Obstruction” (VL), and “Full Tongue Edema” (LMA) settings, respectively, to simulate a moderately difficult airway. The order in which the techniques were performed was randomized for each participant. Completion time and number of attempts were recorded for each procedure and compared between the groups. Results: Sixty-two providers (30 anesthesia providers and 32 respiratory therapists) were enrolled. There were no significant differences in average time to completion for any procedure, except respiratory therapists took longer than anesthesia providers in VL with simulated pharyngeal obstruction (p = 0.0004). There were no differences in number of attempts needed for successful completion. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that while completion times for DL and LMA placement were similar amongst provider groups, average time to completion of VL for respiratory therapists was longer under difficult simulated settings. These results reflect potential areas of improvement for other provider groups that may have airway privileges at their respective institutions.