Technical Standards

The respiratory therapist specializes in the application of scientific knowledge and theory to practical clinical problems as outlined in a description of the occupation found in the guidelines and essentials of the accredited educational program for the respiratory therapist. Therefore, in order to be successful in the program, all applicants should possess:

• Sufficient visual acuity such as is needed in the accurate monitoring of life support systems and for the observation necessary for patient assessment.
• Sufficient auditory perception to receive verbal communication from patients and members of the health care team and to assess health needs of people through the use of monitoring devices such as cardiac monitors, stethoscopes, fire alarms, etc.
• Sufficient gross and fine motor coordination to respond promptly and to implement respiratory care skills including the manipulation of equipment to meet health needs.
• Sufficient communication skills (verbal, nonverbal and written) to interact with individuals and to communicate their needs promptly and effectively.
• Sufficient intellectual and emotional functions to plan and implement respiratory care.