Respiratory Therapy

When people experience respiratory (breathing) difficulties, respiratory therapists (RT) are often the first health care professionals involved.

As members of patient care teams, respiratory therapists bridge advanced technology with direct “hands on” care. We provide assessment and treatment for all types of patients, ranging from premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed to elderly people whose lungs are diseased.

Respiratory therapists are a core member of the critical care team, responsible for mechanical ventilation.  They are also members of specialized response teams such as cardiac arrest, high risk newborn delivery, trauma, critical patient transport and code rapid response. In addition, respiratory therapists complete pulmonary function testing and Methacholine Challenge Testing, as well as asthma and COPD education clinics.

Respiratory therapy is a regulated profession in Newfoundland and Labrador. All RTs in Western Health are required to be registered with the NL Council of Health Professionals and perform to the standards of practice as set by the NL College of Respiratory Therapists.

For more information, call:

Western Memorial Regional Hospital (709) 784-6621 

Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital (709) 643-5111, Ext. 7211