Respiratory therapy technicians assist doctors and surgeons to treat respiratory problems. They work in hospitals and medical facilities where they operate medical equipment to test patients' respiratory conditions and aid in their treatment. Respiratory therapy technicians also tend to breathing equipment and machines during surgery.

Tasks

In such cases tasks would include:
(a) Interviewing and examining patients to obtain information on their health status and the nature and extent of injury, illness or other physical or mental health condition;
(b) Providing information and counselling to patients and families about certain health conditions, prevention and treatment options, treatment adherence, and personal behaviours that can affect health outcomes;
(c) Administering therapeutic care and treatment to patients;
(d ) performing certain basic clinical procedures, such as administration of hiv antibody tests or insertion of intrauterine devices;
(e) Dispensing and advising on dietary supplements, antiretroviral and prophylaxis medications, and other healthcare products
(f) Monitoring patients' progress through treatment plans, and identifying signs and symptoms requiring referral to a medical doctor or other health professional;
(g) Recording information on patients' health status and responses to treatment in medical records-keeping systems;
(h) Sharing information with other health care providers when required to ensure continuing and comprehensive care.