Absolutely, licensed respiratory therapists are not only capable, but also specially trained to perform intubation. They play a crucial role in emergency response teams precisely because of their expertise in establishing an artificial airway for patients who cannot breathe independently. This skill is a fundamental component of a respiratory therapist's scope of practice, empowering them to act swiftly and efficiently in critical moments to safeguard patient health
The proficiency of respiratory therapists in intubation extends across a wide range of clinical circumstances. Their comprehensive training encompasses advanced methodologies and adherence to best practices, ensuring they are thoroughly equipped to manage the intricate process of inserting artificial airways. Furthermore, research and comparative studies affirm that respiratory therapists exhibit a level of adeptness in successful intubations that parallels that of their physician counterparts (source: Pubmed).
Intubation is a procedure performed to establish an artificial airway in a patient. An artificial airway may need to be placed in emergent situations and prior to surgery so a patient can be hooked up to a mechanical ventilator. This allows trained healthcare professionals to control a person’s breathing and provide oxygenation when they aren’t able to themselves.
A patient may need to be intubated for many reasons, the most common being:
Intubating a patient allows medical staff to oxygenate and ventilate a patient with a ventilator when the patient is unable to effectively do it themselves.
Before a patient is intubated, several steps are necessary to ensure a smooth and safe procedure:
Once all the preparation is complete, an RT will stand at the head of the bed with a tool called a laryngoscope that allows them to see the patient’s airway and vocal chords. A registered nurse administers the proper medications so the patient is completely comfortable and asleep. The airway (also called an endotracheal tube) is inserted and the patient is connected to a ventilator that will breathe for them via positive pressure ventilation.
For a successful intubation, the proper equipment should be prepared (with backups available!) including:
In most cases, the respiratory therapist prepares all the equipment for the procedure. An RT is responsible for making sure equipment is tested, not expired, and functional prior to intubating a patient.
Various techniques and approaches can be used to place an endotracheal tube including:
Depending on the hospital’s protocol, a respiratory therapist may be able to perform some, but not all, of these techniques independently.
Every state has their own set of guidelines when it comes to nursing scope of practice. Additionally, each medical facility has policies and protocols in place about who can intubate. Most states allow registered nurses to intubate, though it’s generally not needed when physicians and respiratory therapists are present.
Nurse anesthetists and nurse practitioners often intubate in hospital settings like the operating room or neonatal intensive care unit.
In the field, paramedics or flight nurses may be trained to handle intubations in emergent situations. Sometimes special airways are used in place of endotracheal tubes that are easier and safer to insert, like laryngeal mask airways (LMA).
Intubation is just one skill RTs are trained to do during school and on the job. Respiratory therapists have a diverse skill set that makes them critical to the patient care team.
Additional job duties of respiratory therapists:
RTs play a vital role in the healthcare setting. If you’re looking for a change of pace, let Trusted Health help you find your dream RT job. Find positions with great pay while enjoying the excellent benefits offered by Trusted including health, dental, vision starting on day one.
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