Respiratory Care Links
The NKU Respiratory Care Program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.
Breathe easier...
Most people take breathing for granted. It's second nature, an involuntary reflex. But for thousands of Americans who suffer from breathing problems, each breath is a major accomplishment. Those people include patients with chronic lung problems such as:
- asthma
- bronchitis
- emphysema
- heart attack victims
- accident victims
- premature infants
- people with cystic fibrosis
- people with lung cancer
- people with AIDS
In each case, the person will most likely receive treatment form a respiratory care practitioner under the direction of a physician.
Respiratory care practitioners, work to evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. They are members of the health care team that provides treatment for patients with heart and lung disorders. Tasks, for example, include application of sophisticated life support mechanic ventilation to:
- premature infants with under developed lungs
- giving oxygen and drugs to children with asthma
- measuring lung capacity for individuals with emphysema
- The level of illness and setting of patients can vary widely from the emergency room to the patients home environment.
- The work in science and technology are well balanced with interpersonal skills.
Respiratory care practitioners are a vital part of the health care team and work in a variety of clinical settings including:
- critical care
- home care
- rehabilitation
- diagnostics
- subacute care
Operating in conjunction with other members of the team, such as doctors, nurses and allied health professionals, you help make the decision concerning the patient's welfare.
More Info:
To find out even more information about this field visit the American Association for Respiratory Care.