Introduction to Respiratory Therapy: An Open Workbook for the Entry to Practice Student

When Taylor’s grandfather was hospitalized with pneumonia, she spent long hours by his bedside. One afternoon, a respiratory therapist entered the room with a calm presence and a portable ventilator. Within minutes, the therapist assessed his breathing, adjusted his oxygen, and patiently explained each step to the family. The change was almost immediate—her grandfather relaxed, and so did Taylor. That moment sparked a question in her mind: “What exactly does a respiratory therapist do?” It wasn’t long before Taylor enrolled in a respiratory therapy program, ready to be that same reassuring presence for someone else’s loved one.

This Respiratory Therapy textbook is your gateway into the dynamic, life-saving world of respiratory care. Designed to give you a broad overview of the field, it will introduce you to essential roles, responsibilities, tools, and treatment methods that respiratory therapists use in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings. You’ll explore key concepts in pulmonary anatomy and physiology, medical gas therapy, airway management, and the critical thinking skills that define the profession. Whether you’ve already seen the impact of this career firsthand or are just beginning to explore it, this book will lay the foundation for your success—and your future patients’ breath of relief.