History
Respiratory Care Week, celebrated annually from October 20-26, highlights the vital role of respiratory therapists in healthcare. Respiratory Care week was officially declared by President Ronald Reagan in 1982. Also established in the 1980s by the American Association for Respiratory Care, this week serves to recognize the critical contributions these professionals make to patient care, particularly for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. Over the years, the observance has grown to include educational initiatives that raise awareness about respiratory health and promote best practices in respiratory therapy.
Respiratory therapists are essential in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with breathing disorders by employing advanced technology and therapeutic techniques. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home care, and provide life-saving interventions like mechanical ventilation and aerosol therapies. Their expertise is crucial, especially in times of respiratory crises, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. As respiratory therapists continue to navigate challenges in respiratory health, the need for skilled respiratory care professionals remains more important than ever, underscoring the significance of this dedicated week in honoring their work.
What is Respiratory Care?
Respiratory therapy is a specialized healthcare field where therapists are trained in pulmonary medicine. These types of therapists may be found working at a patient’s bedsides, in a helicopter (transporting patients), research labs, education, pulmonary function testing or as a department manager. They will work with patients from their first breath through all stages of life. Respiratory therapists play a vital role in the healthcare system by providing support to patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary matters.
The demand for respiratory therapists is increasing as the aging population grows and the prevalence of respiratory diseases becomes more apparent through statistics and facts. Respiratory therapist are an integral part of our healthcare system as they work with chronic pulmonary patients, critical patients on ventilatory support, neonatal population, sleep apnea patients.
Tips that are helpful for lungs
The health of our lungs directly influences our lung capacity as we grow older.
Exposure to substances like pollutants, smoke, pet dander, and cleaning products can cause damage to the lungs.
What can we do to keep the lungs healthy?
Protect lungs by avoiding dust, pollutants (indoor and outdoor) and smoke.
Get regular checkups from your health team. Make sure medications are taken correctly, including inhalers and any prescribed medication.
Breathing exercises help strengthen abdominal and chest muscles. (For example pursed lip breathing, abdominal breathing, controlled coughing)
Staying up to date on vaccinations.
Staying active helps overall health.
Exercise is good for our lung health, as well as our overall health. Physical fitness improves lung function, allowing them to absorb more oxygen from the air and transfer it to the bloodstream, where it is then circulated to all parts of the body. Scientific research has shown that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may have positive effects on lung health, such as reducing airway inflammation and improving lung capacity. Research suggests that playing a wind instrument, like the harmonica, can be a fun and effective way to exercise the lungs.
Honoring the Heros of Respiratory Care
Respiratory Care Week is a time to honor the resilience and expertise of respiratory therapists. They navigate complex medical challenges, often under demanding circumstances, to provide essential respiratory care. Their dedication to patient care, even in the face of adversity, is truly inspiring. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their invaluable contributions to the healthcare field.
If you or your loved one are facing chronic or critical illness, you may need to evaluate your estate plan, including your health care advance directives. If you need assistance with estate planning, please contact your local elder law attorney. Should you want to schedule a meeting with our office, contact us at (850) 894-0152.
