American Association for Respiratory Care

11030 Ables Lane, Dallas, TX 75229

Position Statement

Respiratory Care Scope of Practice

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: (1) obtaining and analyzing physiological specimens; (2) interpreting physiological data; (3) performing tests and studies of the cardiopulmonary system; (4) performing neurophysiological studies; and (5) performing sleep disorder studies.

Therapy includes but is not limited to application and monitoring of: (1) medical gases (excluding anesthetic gases) and environmental control systems; (2) mechanical ventilator support; (3) artificial airway care; (4) bronchopulmonary hygiene; (5) pharmacological agents related to respiratory care procedures; (6) cardiopulmonary rehabilitation; and (7) 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.

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