Q: What's a typical workday like for you?
A: I do patient assessments, evaluate the patients, and manage and provide treatment for patients who have breathing disorders or illnesses. I administer oxygen therapy, nebulizer-aerosolized medications and non-invasive ventilation care to patients on the medical floors. I also do vest therapy - an airway clearance treatment. I am supervised by a respiratory therapist.
Q: How does your role fit into the bigger health care picture?
A: I help manage and educate patients with their disease to live better lives. I work closely with other individuals in the health care team such as nurses and physicians, and I recommend therapy based on my patient assessment.
Q: Who do you interact with during the course of the day?
A: I mostly interact with nurses and senior respiratory therapists, sometimes with physicians, as well as with patients and their families.
Q: Why did you become a respiratory therapy assistant?
A: I am a senior at St. Catherine University studying for a bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy. I wanted to get my toes wet and have a learning experience. I also love working with people and providing care for people who need my help.
