Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory care already uses smart tools for some tasks. For example, modern blood‐gas analyzers can quickly interpret test results using AI algorithms and alert doctors ^[1]. Likewise, continuous monitors and smart ventilators can track breathing, oxygen levels, and other vitals in real time, sending alerts if something changes ^[1].

Patient charts are often digital now, and AI-powered software can organize data and even flag errors in notes ^[1]. However, the personal parts of therapy remain to humans. Things like performing CPR, instructing breathing exercises, or gently explaining treatments are still done by trained therapists.

In fact, experts emphasize that AI in respiratory care is meant to help clinicians – it “augments the expertise” of respiratory therapists rather than replacing them ^{[1] [1]}.

Adopting AI tools in respiratory care depends on many factors. On the plus side, demand for respiratory therapists is growing fast (projected 12% job growth by 2034 ^[2]), so tools that ease their workload can be attractive. Also, some systems (like telemedicine monitoring) became common after COVID, so hospitals are more open to tech.

On the cautious side, healthcare must meet strict safety and trust standards. Reviews note that even useful AI helpers (for charting or monitoring) are not yet 100% accurate, so clinicians and patients need time to trust them ^{[1] [1]}. Hospitals also weigh costs: advanced AI equipment can be expensive, so they compare that to hiring skilled staff.

In practice, this means AI will likely spread incrementally. For now, computers handle data and alerts, but human therapists keep the hands-on care and personal connection. In short, AI is a promising assistant, but the human skills of respiratory therapists – judgment, empathy, and physical care – remain essential ^{[1] [2]}.