From Here to There: Vision, Value, and the Advancement of Respiratory Care

Practice of Respiratory Therapists in Pennsylvania: A Statewide Survey

“…This finding suggests opportunities for our state to enhance perceptions of the profession, and the number of protocolized treatments and procedures provided by respiratory therapists also highlight the importance of the care that respiratory therapists provide to patients. 2,3,5,6 As health care has changed in the last decade, it has been suggested that there is a need for respiratory therapy to transition from the associate's degree to the bachelor's degree for entry into practice. 2,4 A survey by Smith et al 4 of practitioners in the state of New York reported that without advancement we are at risk of losing people from the profession.…”

“…Our data supports the idea that hospitals have room to grow in relation to the practice of respiratory therapy, such as with expansion of respiratory therapist-driven protocols, clinical ladders, and alternative care roles. 4,5,[7][8][9] Nontraditional procedures performed by respiratory therapists opens yet another avenue to display our value. Exploring opportunities to expand professional roles for respiratory therapists within health systems may have a major impact on the profession as a whole.…”

“…Exploring opportunities to expand professional roles for respiratory therapists within health systems may have a major impact on the profession as a whole. 4,5 This survey differs from other surveys with regard to state-level practice because it seeks to determine what current practice is from the perspective of department leadership. The survey from Smith et al 4 showed the viewpoint of the practitioners within the state of New York and their desire for advancement of the profession.…”