What does a respiratory therapist do?

A respiratory therapist helps people with breathing problems manage their condition and their equipment. They check and correct inhaler technique, perform and explain breathing tests such as spirometry, assess and set up oxygen therapy and devices like CPAP and nebulisers, and teach breathing techniques and pulmonary rehabilitation. Much of their work is practical and educational, focused on helping you breathe more easily and use your treatments effectively, which is why bringing your actual devices to the appointment is so useful.

Why is inhaler technique so important?

Many people do not use their inhalers correctly, which means the medicine does not reach the lungs properly and the condition stays poorly controlled despite the right prescription. A respiratory therapist can watch you use your inhaler, spot errors, and show you the correct technique — often a quick fix that makes a big difference to symptom control. Bringing your own inhalers and spacer lets them check your actual technique rather than a demonstration device.

Should I bring my breathing devices to the appointment?

Yes. Bring your inhalers, spacer, nebuliser, CPAP machine, or home oxygen equipment, because a large part of a respiratory therapist's role is checking that you are using them correctly and that they are set up for your needs. Also bring any home readings from a pulse oximeter or peak flow meter. Seeing your real devices and technique — rather than standard demonstration equipment — allows for advice that is specific to you.

What is the difference between a respiratory therapist and a pulmonologist?

A pulmonologist is a medical doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating lung diseases, prescribing medication, and ordering investigations. A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who focuses on the practical management of breathing — performing lung function tests, optimising inhaler and device technique, managing oxygen and CPAP, and delivering breathing rehabilitation. They often work together: the pulmonologist directs medical treatment, while the respiratory therapist helps you carry it out effectively day to day.

How to Prepare for a Respiratory Therapist Appointment

Quick answer: Before seeing a respiratory therapist, note your breathing symptoms — breathlessness, cough, wheeze, sputum — and what triggers or eases them. Bring your inhalers or breathing devices, a list of medications, and any recent lung test or oxygen results. If you use a home pulse oximeter or peak flow meter, bring the readings. A respiratory therapist helps you breathe better and use your devices correctly, so bring the actual devices.

A respiratory therapist helps people with breathing problems — from asthma and COPD to sleep and oxygen needs — breathe more easily and get the most from their inhalers and devices. Because so much of the visit is practical, the single best thing you can do is bring your actual devices and a record of your symptoms.

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What to Bring and Track

Your devices: inhalers, spacers, nebuliser, CPAP, or home oxygen equipment
Symptoms: breathlessness (and what you can/can’t do), cough, wheeze, sputum colour and amount
Triggers: exertion, cold air, allergens, smoke, infections
Home readings: pulse oximeter (oxygen) and peak flow, if you use them
Medications and history: including smoking history. A appointment notebook keeps it together.

What a Respiratory Therapist Does

Inhaler technique: checking and correcting how you use inhalers — a very common, fixable problem
Breathing tests: spirometry and other lung function measurements
Oxygen and devices: assessing oxygen needs, CPAP for sleep apnoea, nebulisers
Education and rehab: breathing techniques and pulmonary rehabilitation

Helpful for this appointment

fingertip pulse oximeter — to monitor your blood-oxygen levels at home
peak flow meter — to track your lung function between visits

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Questions to Ask

Am I using my inhaler or device correctly?
What do my breathing test results mean?
Do I need oxygen or a different device, and how do I use it safely?
What breathing techniques or rehab would help me?
What should I do if my breathing suddenly worsens?

Regional Notes

Singapore: Respiratory therapists work within hospital respiratory services and sleep units, supporting inhaler technique, oxygen, and CPAP.

Australia: Respiratory function and rehabilitation services are available through hospitals and clinics; pulmonary rehab is well established.

United States: Respiratory therapists work in hospitals, clinics, and home care; covered by most insurers as part of respiratory care.

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Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and preparation purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional for guidance specific to your situation.