Definition of Occupation

Respiratory therapy technicians evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders under the direction of respiratory therapists and physicians. They follow specific, well-defined respiratory care procedures. In clinical practice, many of the daily duties of therapists and technicians overlap, although therapists generally have greater responsibility than technicians. Technicians provide temporary relief to patients with chronic asthma or emphysema, as well as emergency care to patients who are victims of heart attack, stroke, drowning, or shock.