Respiratory Physiotherapist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Respiratory Physiotherapist
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Practice Now »What is a Respiratory Physiotherapist?
A Respiratory Physiotherapist focuses on providing therapeutic treatments and exercise programs to patients who suffer from lung and respiratory conditions. You would be involved in alleviating symptoms, improving breathing techniques and increasing overall physical endurance through hands-on treatment, movement, and equipment usage.
Skills
- Strong knowledge of respiratory anatomy and physiology
- Proficiency in assessing and diagnosing respiratory conditions
- Ability to develop and implement effective respiratory treatment plans
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work with patients and healthcare professionals
- Competence in using respiratory therapy equipment and techniques
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to adapt treatment plans as needed
- Empathy and patience to support patients through their respiratory rehabilitation journey
- Strong record-keeping and documentation skills for accurate patient records
- Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest advancements in respiratory therapy
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team
Qualifications & Education
- GCSEs/S grades
- A levels/H grades
- Up to four years training on an approved degree scheme
- State registration as a physiotherapist
- Eligibility for accelerated two-year pre-registration MSc degree programmes in Physiotherapy or Rehabilitation Science for some science and other graduates
- Passing a medical examination
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, physiotherapy can help with breathing. Physiotherapists can teach correct breathing techniques and provide exercises to increase the amount of oxygen in the lungs.
To measure chest expansion, a tape measure is used. The examiner's hands are placed on the posterolateral segment of both bases, with the thumbs touching in the midline posteriorly. The examiner then observes the movement of both sides of the chest, which should move equally. The normal displacement is typically 3-5cm.
A respiratory physiotherapist assesses and treats individuals with respiratory system disorders, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis. They use various techniques and exercises to help improve lung function and breathing.
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