Let’s take the time to celebrate our Respiratory Therapists for their dedication, hard work, service, support, for the critical role that they played during the pandemic, and for the role that they continue to play throughout the world.
I would like to celebrate one student, in particular Glenda Moffett, she is in pursuance of an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Respiratory Therapy at St. Louis College of Health Careers, her expected graduation is December of 2022.
Glenda has been in the healthcare industry for over fifteen years. She is natural at helping others, and she is comfortable with taking care of babies. She has a way of connecting with her peers and patients with her loving and caring spirit.
History of Respiratory Therapists
In 1982, nearly 40 years after the first group of Inhalation Therapists (now known as Respiratory Therapists) started working, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation dedicating National Respiratory Care Week. Today Respiratory Care Week is held the last full week in October.
Caring for a President
How was it that respiratory therapists happened to get onto President Reagan’s radar? Well unfortunately in 1981, President Reagan was shot and rushed to George Washington University Hospital where he underwent left lung surgery for a gunshot wound. Among other healthcare workers, respiratory therapists played a key role in his recovery. A year later he proclaimed Respiratory Care Week and leaders in Respiratory were invited to the signing at the White House.
What is Respiratory Care?
Respiratory care is the health care discipline that specializes in the promotion of optimal cardiopulmonary function, health, and wellness. Respiratory therapists diagnose, manage and work to control illnesses affecting the lungs. They can branch off into many areas within our field from inpatient care managing vents, intubations, breathing treatments, secretion management, pulmonary hygiene, etc., to outpatient care which involves home oxygen, home Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) set up and management, as well as sleep disorders. Respiratory care also extends to long-term care facilities for vent management, weaning, and tracheostomy care.
Reference
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