Creation of an Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapy Education Program

Area of Science:

• Cardiopulmonary Medicine
• Healthcare Practitioner Education
• Advanced Practice Providers

Background:

• The registered respiratory therapist (RRT) provides essential respiratory care.
• The evolving healthcare landscape necessitates expanded roles for respiratory therapists.
• Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) are increasingly integrated into patient care teams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the scope of practice and educational requirements for the new Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) role.
• To outline the competencies and training necessary for APRTs.
• To establish the APRT as an integral part of the physician-led healthcare team.

Main Methods:

• Accredited APRT education programs incorporate six competency domains: medical knowledge, communication, patient care, professionalism, practice-based learning, and systems-based practice.
• Didactic, laboratory, simulation, and extensive clinical coursework (minimum 1,200 hours) are integral to APRT training.
• Preclinical education includes interprofessional coursework and specialized training in competency domains, utilizing various simulation methods.

Main Results:

• APRTs are trained to provide advanced diagnostic and therapeutic patient care services.
• The APRT scope of practice exceeds that of the RRT and aligns with the APP role.
• APRTs are prepared to assess patients, develop care plans, and manage treatment based on patient response.

Conclusions:

• The Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) is a new healthcare practitioner with an expanded scope of practice.
• APRTs are trained to deliver comprehensive cardiopulmonary patient care across diverse healthcare settings.
• The APRT role offers a valuable addition to physician-led teams, enhancing patient management and outcomes.