A Day in the Life of a Respiratory Therapist

Summary

In this video, respiratory therapists Anna Kaye Bouy and Rob share their experiences working in intensive care and neonatal units, highlighting the critical role they play in patient care. Anna emphasizes the emotional connection with her colleagues, describing them as a supportive and dynamic team that thrives on collaboration. Rob discusses the advanced technology used in caring for micro preemies and reflects on his growth as a therapist since joining the team during the COVID pandemic. Together, they illustrate the dedication and passion that drive their profession, making a profound impact on their patients' lives.

Takeaways

• 😀 Anna Kaye Bouy is a respiratory therapist with over five years of experience, viewing her role as crucial for patients' airways.
• 😀 Respiratory therapists witness the full spectrum of life, from the first breath of newborns to end-of-life care.
• 😀 No two days are the same in respiratory therapy, highlighting the importance of adaptability and readiness.
• 😀 Collaboration among coworkers is vital, with trust and support being key components of effective teamwork in the respiratory department.
• 😀 Anna emphasizes the dedication and passion of her colleagues, describing them as special individuals with strong personalities.
• 😀 The respiratory team values each other's contributions, which enhances their ability to provide high-quality care.
• 😀 Rob, another respiratory therapist, shares his experience working with micro preemies and the importance of the oscillator in delivering care.
• 😀 The work environment at Inspira fosters respect for the opinions and knowledge of respiratory therapists.
• 😀 Both Anna and Rob express gratitude for their job opportunities, especially during the challenges posed by COVID-19.
• 😀 The supportive atmosphere at Inspira encourages professional growth and a sense of belonging among staff.

Q & A

What is the primary role of a respiratory therapist as described by Anna Kaye Bouy?

The primary role of a respiratory therapist, according to Anna Kaye Bouy, is to support patients' airways and respiratory functions throughout various stages of life, from newborns taking their first breaths to patients in end-of-life care.

How long has Anna Kaye Bouy been a respiratory therapist?

Anna Kaye Bouy has been a respiratory therapist for over five years.

What types of patients do respiratory therapists typically care for in the ICU?

In the ICU, respiratory therapists may care for patients on ventilators, BiPAP machines, or high-flow oxygen systems, with each patient requiring different types of respiratory support.

What does Anna mention about teamwork and her coworkers?

Anna emphasizes the importance of teamwork, stating that she loves her coworkers, finds them to be special people with great personalities, and feels that their collaborative efforts are crucial for effective patient care.

What specific equipment does Rob mention for treating micro preemies?

Rob mentions the oscillator, a piece of equipment that can deliver up to 600 breaths a minute, which is crucial for providing adequate respiratory support to micro preemies.

How does Rob feel about the respect for their opinions and knowledge in the NICU?

Rob feels that their opinions and knowledge are highly respected in the NICU, which contributes to a positive working environment.

What significant event led Anna to return to the workforce?

Anna returned to the workforce during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which provided her the opportunity to re-enter her profession and meet new people.

What does Anna say about the work environment at her facility?

Anna describes the work environment at her facility as supportive, noting that both her coworkers and management create a safe and encouraging atmosphere, which makes her want to stay.

How does Anna view the dynamics of her team?

Anna views the dynamics of her team as strong and effective, stating that they bounce off each other’s strengths and can rely on one another during challenging shifts.

What personal reflections do Anna and Rob share about their experiences as respiratory therapists?

Both Anna and Rob reflect positively on their experiences, expressing gratitude for their roles, the supportive colleagues they work with, and the opportunities for professional growth within their field.