This is a general FAQ for the Scope of Practice of a Respiratory Therapist. Obviously some states do not allow some RTs to do things and allows others to, and some states allow RTs to do literally anything. Scope of Practice hinges on Education Preparation/Personal Competency, Legal Allowance and most importantly for an RT is the 3rd part which is institution allowance. An RT may not be permitted to perform these skills at their institution but this list is a demonstration of what is a standard scope for an RT.
Respiratory Therapists:
- Administer medications including narcotics.
- Diagnose acute emergencies using diagnostic tools (ie pneumothorax)
- Insert chest tubes
- Perform a chest decompression
- Maintain a patent airway by the most appropriate means (Intubate, etc)
- Start IV, Arterial or central accesses (all access, including IO)
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