Independence and Respiratory Therapists

Of the Requirements for the Degree of

ASSESSING THE NEED FOR AN ENHANCED INDEPENDENT PRACTICE ROLE FOR RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS

At one time, almost all respiratory care was provided in institutional settings. Within that context, RTs worked exclusively under the guidance of physicians. In a rapidly changing health care environment, however, RTs are required to provide care in a wide variety of settings. In the expanded care delivery environment, there is a greater need for RTs to engage in independent practice. There exists, however, both opposition to and support for enhanced independence practice opportunities for RTs. Thus, most RTs continue to be required by regulatory authorities to practice under the direct guidance of physicians. This situation limits the opportunities for RTs and limits access to needed care for many patients.

Effective educational requirements and credentialing criteria could be effective in eliminating the restrictions on independent practice for qualified RTs. This research study assessed the need for an enhanced independent practice role for

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s. Definition of Terms Respiratory care: 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. Their knowledge of the scientific principles underlying cardiopulmonary physiology and pathophysiology, as well as biomedical engineering and technology, enable them to effectively assess, educate, and treat patients with cardiopulmonary disorders. Qualified respiratory therapist: A qualified respiratory therapist is a graduate of an accredited educational program who has successfully passed the respiratory care qualifying examination in the governing jurisdiction where they practice. Enhanced independent practice: Enhanced independent practice is the prerogative of respiratory therapists who have met specified educational and testing requirements to deliver respiratory therapy to patients suffering from specified conditions without the direct guidance of a physician. Overview of the Methodology The methodology that was employed in this study included the collection of the data required to investigate the researc
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Approximate Word count = 9169
Approximate Pages = 37 (250 words per page)

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