Respiratory Therapy

The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment.

Diffusion is the process by which oxygen moves from the alveoli to the bloodstream across the alveolar-capillary membrane.

Spirometry is a common respiratory assessment technique used to measure lung volumes and capacities, such as vital capacity, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in one second.

Forced vital capacity is the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled after a maximal inspiration.

Oxygen therapy is a common therapeutic intervention used to deliver oxygen to patients with respiratory distress, either through nasal cannula, face mask, or mechanical ventilator.

Chest physiotherapy is a technique used to remove secretions from the airways through various maneuvers, such as postural drainage, percussion, and vibration.

Beta-agonists are commonly used to treat bronchospasm in patients with asthma or COPD by relaxing the airway smooth muscles.

Tracheostomy is the surgical creation of an opening in the trachea to facilitate breathing, often used in patients with prolonged respiratory failure or upper airway obstruction.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a common complication associated with mechanical ventilation, caused by the colonization and infection of the lower respiratory tract.

Hypoxemia is the condition characterized by abnormally low levels of oxygen in the blood.

Arterial blood gas analysis is a common respiratory assessment technique used to measure the partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide in arterial blood.

Hypercapnia is the condition characterized by abnormally high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood.

Bronchoscopy is a common respiratory assessment technique used to visualize the airways and diagnose respiratory conditions by inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the airways.

Apnea is the condition characterized by the absence of breathing.

Respiratory muscle strength testing is a common respiratory assessment technique used to evaluate the function of the respiratory muscles.