What can RT's do that RN's can't?

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It seems nurses can do everything an RT does plus their own duties... is that true?

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Specializes in Cardiac/Progressive Care.

Depends on the facility. Where I used to work, RTs intubated during codes. Where I am now, RNs are able to give MDIs, but only if RT has written an order (per protocol) saying the RN can, but at my previous facility, MDIs were automatic for RNs to do. And we only give nebs if RT is in the middle of an emergency and calls and asks us. Only RT can do percussive therapy. And generally everywhere Ive worked, the docs let RT dictate vent settings, though some RNs could adjust accordingly. So it really depends on the facility.

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Specializes in Family Nursing & Psychiatry.

RTs really just help us RNs out.

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UCLA FNP Class of 2016

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Specializes in MICU - CCRN, IR, Vascular Surgery.

It depends on your facility. At mine, RNs don't intubate, do percussive therapy, respiratory treatments, or arterial sticks. We also don't touch anything on the vent except the silence alarm button and the 100% button.

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At my facility RT's are highly respected for their advanced knowledge of vents and airway issues. They give respiratory meds, advanced respiratory treatments, tweak vents according to ABG's and VBG's (with MD input), assist with intubation, and help trouble-shoot a patient who is declining along with the MDs and RNs. I don't know what we would do without them! At least in the Peds ICU and pulmonary unit.

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RTs really just help us RNs out.

Really? Is this is all you can say about the RT members of your team?

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

I would not want to live in a world without RTs!!

PS: My son is in RT school.

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.
RTs really just help us RNs out.

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UCLA FNP Class of 2016

I laughed out loud.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.
RTs really just help us RNs out.

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UCLA FNP Class of 2016

Surely this is a joke??

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
It seems nurses can do everything an RT does plus their own duties... is that true?

Depends on the setting.

In the home care setting; nurses ARE the nurse and the RT in the home; in sub-acute and Rehab, I have been the "Respiratory Nurse" when there is no RT present.

I know how to troubleshoot vents; know how to use a cough assist device, respiratory vests; etc.

I have received training from nurses and RTs how to teach nurses how to use and troubleshoot vents and have passed the knowledge on successfully.

As other posters have explained, RTs provide a role that is very complementary to the healthcare team.

I currently work with very knowledgable RTs and have done so in the past as well; good RTs are certainly worth their weight in gold :yes:

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Technically in many states the job of an RRT is within the scope of an RN and in some states LPN.

However, the RRT is specialized education on the respiratory system and a valuable resource with often high level skills in airway and respiratory management. Many nurses do not have that level of experience and continuing education.

Legally/technically an orthopedic surgeon can perform a c-section but would you even think of asking the guy who did the ORIF on your ankle to deliver your child?

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Great...another one of these threads. As a critical care nurse I highly value a RT's knowledge base and the duties they perform. If you want to do it all yourself go ahead.

Next in, NPs will start saying we don't need surgeons anymore....

Seriously there are other healthcare team members besides RNs.

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