Respiratory Therapists administer oxygen, humidity, aerosols, and mechanical ventilation and use technologically sophisticated monitoring devices and treatment techniques to enhance the survival of patients in intensive care units. Respiratory therapists may also perform pulmonary function testing.

Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Acquiring and evaluating clinical data;
2. Assessing the cardiopulmonary status of patients;
3. Performing and assisting in the performance of prescribed diagnostic studies such as: obtaining blood samples, blood gas analysis, pulmonary function testing, and polysomnography;
4. Evaluating data to assess the appropriateness of prescribed respiratory care;
5. Establishing therapeutic goals for patients with cardiopulmonary disease; 
6. Participating in the development and modification of respiratory care plans;
7. Case management of patients with cardiopulmonary and related diseases;
8. Initiating prescribed respiratory care treatments, evaluating and monitoring patient responses to such therapy and modifying the prescribed therapy to achieve the desired therapeutic objectives;
9. Initiating and conducting prescribed pulmonary rehabilitation;
10. Providing patient, family, and community education;
11. Promoting cardiopulmonary wellness, disease prevention, and disease management;
12. Participating in life support activities as required; and promoting evidence-based medicine; research; and clinical practice guidelines.