Respiratory Therapy 
Pulmonary rehabilitation helps control many symptoms of respiratory impairment and teaches patients how they may achieve the best possible capacity to perform activities of daily living. Pulmonary function tests performed in the Pulmonary Laboratory give objective data regarding the course of a disorder. The information helps the physician determine whether or not a specific treatment is beneficial. Patients are taught to recognize symptoms indicating medical attention is needed. They are instructed in breathing techniques, effects of disease on breathing, medications and their usage, use and care of respiratory equipment, basic exercise physiology, postural drainage at home, hazards of smoking, and social and psychological problems associated with chronic lung disease.

Respiratory therapists specialize in the assessment and treatment of breathing disorders including chronic lung problems. They are specialists in airway management, mechanical ventilation, blood acid/base balance, and critical care medicine.