RESPIRATORY CARE SERVICES
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Respiratory Care services at YRMC are available 24/7 to all age groups and to both inpatients or outpatients. Respiratory Care is the health care discipline that specializes in the promotion of optimum cardiopulmonary function and health. Respiratory Therapists apply scientific principles to prevent, identify, and treat acute or chronic dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system. Knowledge of the scientific principles underlying cardiopulmonary physiology and pathophysiology, as well as biomedical engineering and technology, enable Respiratory Therapists to effectively assess, educate and treat patients.
The practice of Respiratory Care encompasses activities in: diagnostic evaluation, therapy, and education of the patient, family and public. These activities are supported by education, research, and administration. Diagnostic activities include but are not limited to:
- Obtaining and analyzing physiological specimens;
- Interpreting physiological data;
- Performing tests and studies of the cardiopulmonary system;
- Performing neuropsychological studies;
- Performing sleep disorder studies.
Therapy includes but is not limited to the application and monitoring of:
- Medical gases (excluding anesthetic gases) and environmental control systems;
- Mechanical ventilator support;
- Artificial airway care;
- Bronchopulmonary hygiene;
- Pharmacological agents related to respiratory care procedures;
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation;
- Hemodynamic cardiovascular support.
The focus of patient and family education activities is to promote knowledge of disease process, medical therapy and self-help. Public education activities focus on the promotion of cardiopulmonary wellness. Respiratory Care is practiced under medical direction. Respiratory Care is focused on the assessment, treatment, management, control, diagnostic evaluation, education, and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system as well as on prevention of the development of these deficiencies. Critical thinking, patient/environment assessment skills, and evidence –based clinical practice guidelines enable Respiratory Therapists to develop and implement effective care plans, patient-driven protocols, disease-based clinical pathways, and disease management programs.