RTMatters

In this episode of RTMatters, Patrick sits down with Carri McClure, MBA, RRT, Clinical Supervisor of Respiratory Care at WellStar North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, GA. Carri shares her professional journey in respiratory therapy and discusses how advancing her education helped shape her current leadership role.   The conversation takes a candid look at the growing trend of delegating so-called “routine basic inpatient tasks”—including MDI and nebulizer treatments—to non-RT personnel. Carri highlights why these activities are far more than simple tasks and explains the critical role RTs play in monitoring, teaching, coaching, and assessing patients, especially outside of the critical care environment.   Carri also raises important patient safety concerns regarding a recent proposal, shared on AARConnect, suggesting that PACU nurses perform mechanical ventilation liberation and extubation—procedures traditionally and appropriately managed by respiratory therapists.   This episode underscores the need for RTs to stay actively engaged as the healthcare landscape continues to shift post-pandemic. Carri and Patrick explore how RTs can help shape these changes to protect patient safety and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality, effective respiratory care.   Have any questions or suggestions? Please email us at feedback@RTMatters.com   #RTMatters #RespiratoryTherapists #PatientSafety #ScopeOfPractice #RespiratoryCare #HealthcareChanges #RTLeadership #ProfessionalAdvocacy

In this episode of RTMatters, host Patrick Dunne continues the conversation with Dr. Robert Joyner, PhD, RRT-ACCS, FAARC, Director of the Richard A. Henson Research Institute at Tidal Health in Salisbury, MD, on the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in respiratory care. Dr. Joyner discusses how AI can enhance clinical practice through data analysis, workflow support, and individualized patient management—particularly for COPD patients with complex comorbidities. He also explores the importance of maintaining the respiratory therapist’s critical role in interpreting data, making informed clinical decisions, and ensuring patient-centered care. The discussion addresses both the opportunities and challenges of implementing AI in healthcare, including the need for transparency, bias mitigation, data security, and informed consent. Tune in to learn how AI can complement—not replace—the expertise and judgment of skilled respiratory therapists at the bedside.

Get ready for the world’s largest gathering of respiratory care professionals! In this episode, host Patrick Dunne talks with Amanda Nickel, MSc, RRT-NPS, RRT-ACCS, Respiratory Research Clinical Expert at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Chair of the AARC 2025 Program Committee, for an exclusive preview of the 71st AARC International Respiratory Congress taking place December 6–9, 2025, in Phoenix, AZ. Amanda shares details on what attendees can expect, including: ✅ Over 80 stand-alone presentations and 14 symposiums spanning every domain of respiratory care ✅ Opportunities to earn up to 20 continuing-education credits ✅ More than 120 exhibitors featuring the latest technology and innovations in patient care ✅ Networking and special events you won’t want to miss If you’re planning to attend—or want to stay informed on the latest in respiratory therapy—this episode will help you make the most of #AARC2025. #RTMatters #AARC2025 #RespiratoryTherapy #RespiratoryCare #ProfessionalDevelopment #HealthcareEducation #TeamMonaghan

In this episode of RTMatters, Dr. Brian Walsh, PhD, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS, RPFT, FAARC, shares his journey in respiratory therapy and explores the many pathways for career advancement in the profession. From specialty credentials to the emerging role of the Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT), Dr. Walsh highlights the value of formal education, networking, and degree advancement programs. The discussion also dives into UTMB’s Master of Science in Respiratory Therapy (MSRT) programs, including the entry-to-practice option and the fully online degree advancement program with tracks in Administrative Leadership, Educational Leadership, and Research Leadership. Feedback? Questions? Submit them here: feedback@rtmatters.com #RTMatters #RespiratoryTherapists #ProfessionalDevelopment #HealthcareLeadership #QualityImprovement #PatientSafety #HumanFactors #RTCareerGrowth #RespiratoryCare

In this episode, we’re joined by Kevin McQueen, MHA, RRT-ACCS, CPPS, FAARC, System Lead Director of Respiratory Care at the University of Colorado Health System. Kevin shares his career journey in respiratory therapy, including his military service, education, and leadership roles in professional societies. The conversation explores the evolving role of respiratory therapists in healthcare, highlighting the expanding scope of practice being considered by various state licensing boards. Kevin emphasizes the value of specialty credentials, continuous professional development, and the opportunities for RTs to engage in peripheral areas of healthcare such as quality improvement, patient safety, risk management, and human factors. Tune in to hear insights on advancing your career, broadening your professional skill set, and embracing the growing opportunities available to respiratory therapists today. Remember, send in your questions or feedback to feedback@rtmatters.com #RTMatters #RespiratoryTherapists #ProfessionalDevelopment #HealthcareLeadership #QualityImprovement #PatientSafety #HumanFactors #RTCareerGrowth #RespiratoryCare

Remember, send in your questions or feedback to feedback@rtmatters.com In this episode of RTMatters, we’re joined by Dr. Robert Joyner, PhD, RRT-ACCS, FAARC, Director of the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Research Institute in Salisbury, MD. With years of experience directing and coordinating clinical research studies, Bob shares valuable insights into the importance of basing respiratory therapy practices on strong clinical evidence—especially as the healthcare system transitions to value-based care. Bob and host Patrick Dunne explore how respiratory therapists can advocate for evidence-based protocols within hospital committees and work alongside physician leaders to improve patient care. They dive into the hierarchy of clinical research evidence, from expert opinion to prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and the critical role of eliminating bias and peer review in ensuring the credibility of research. Bob also discusses the different types of clinical research reviews—systematic reviews, meta-analysis, and scoping reviews—and addresses why many RTs are hesitant to engage in research. Despite the initial challenges, Bob emphasizes that research becomes more manageable with practice and can be incredibly rewarding. The episode concludes with a brief discussion on the potential impact of A.I. in healthcare, particularly in RT practice, with plans to explore this further in future episodes. #RTMatters #ClinicalResearch #EvidenceBasedCare #RespiratoryTherapists #HealthcareInnovation #ResearchInRespiratoryCare #ValueBasedCare #AInHealthcare #RandomizedControlledTrials #EvidenceBasedPractice

In this first part of a multi-episode series, we delve into the growing role of artificial intelligence (A.I.) in respiratory therapy practice. While A.I. has seamlessly integrated into our personal lives through technologies like Siri, Alexa, and navigation apps, its introduction into the workplace—especially healthcare—has raised concerns about clinical efficacy, patient safety, and job security. In this episode, we introduce the basics of A.I., explaining how it works and why it’s being called the "eventual inevitability" in respiratory care. While A.I. in healthcare can feel intimidating, we aim to address the fears and misconceptions surrounding this technology. As A.I. continues to make its mark on respiratory care, this is just the beginning of an ongoing conversation that will explore its impact, benefits, and challenges in future episodes. Join us for this insightful discussion and stay tuned for more on A.I. in respiratory care. We want to hear from you! Write in with your questions or episode topic suggestions at feedback@rtmatters.com #RTMatters #ArtificialIntelligence #RespiratoryTherapists #HealthcareInnovation #AIinHealthcare #RespiratoryCare #ClinicalEfficacy #PatientSafety

In this episode of RTMatters, we’re joined by Kellianne Fleming, Director of Pulmonary Services at Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin and Interim Executive Director of Froedtert Bluemound Rehabilitation Hospital. Kellianne, also the lead author of the influential article "Optimizing Respiratory Therapy Resources by De-Implementing Low-Value Care" from the May 2023 edition of RESPIRATORY CARE, discusses her team’s journey to eliminate a non-evidence-based respiratory care procedure. Kellianne walks us through the process of addressing a problematic physician order set, the challenges of insufficient staffing, and the negative impacts on patient safety. She dives into the concept of confirmation bias and how it can hinder innovation in healthcare, while also explaining how peer-reviewed data was used to demonstrate the lack of efficacy for aerosolized medications in treating secretion retention. Learn how Froedtert tackled this issue hospital-wide through a quality improvement initiative, the importance of having an engaged medical director, and the positive outcomes for both RT staff and patients. This episode also explores how this success serves as a model for evaluating and improving other low-value respiratory care procedures. For more information, and to submit questions and feedback, email us at feedback@rtmatters.com. #RTMatters #LowValueCare #RespiratoryTherapists #PatientSafety #HealthcareInnovation #RespiratoryCare #QualityImprovement #EvidenceBasedCare

In this episode of RTMatters, we’re joined by Wendy Fascia, Manager of Respiratory Care, EEG, and ECMO Programs at Crouse Health in Syracuse, NY, and a founding member of the Lung Partners Program. Wendy discusses the gaps in COPD continuing care and how the Lung Partners program at Crouse Health is addressing them. Lung Partners is an innovative COPD disease management program where respiratory therapists (RTs) play a central role in the care of COPD patients from admission to discharge. Wendy highlights how RTs ensure correct treatment orders, facilitate spirometry for accurate diagnosis, and provide ongoing support for smoking cessation and inhaler technique. The program’s collaborative approach ensures continuity of care by sharing information with physicians and community providers. Tune in to learn more about how Lung Partners is improving COPD care and the essential role RTs play in managing this chronic disease. For more information, and to submit questions and feedback, email us at feedback@rtmatters.com.   #RTMatters #COPD #RespiratoryTherapists #LungPartners #ContinuityOfCare #HealthcareInnovation #SmokingCessation #ChronicCareManagement

In this episode of RTMatters, we’re joined by Ed Coombs, Senior Director of Marketing (Clinical Affairs & Intensive Care) at Draeger, Inc., to explore why some respiratory therapists, including recent grads and seasoned professionals, feel that respiratory therapy is not a viable long-term career. A key theme of this episode is combating the feeling of being under-appreciated and the frustration of not being able to practice at the top of one's licensed scope. Ed offers valuable insights on how success in any career - especially RTs - depends on the commitment to growth. He discusses the various career paths available to RTs and emphasizes the importance of mentorship and continuous education. Many higher-level positions in respiratory therapy require more than just an associate degree, and Ed talks about available online programs and financial support for degree advancement. We also tackle the topic of "quiet quitting" - simply going through the motions without engaging fully - and why it’s crucial to avoid this mindset. Instead, Ed encourages RTs to re-invest in themselves and their careers, urging them to view their time and experience in the field as a foundation for future growth. If you’ve ever wondered whether respiratory therapy can be a sustainable long-term career, this episode is a must-listen! For more information, and to submit questions and feedback, email us at feedback@rtmatters.com.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of RTMatters, a podcast dedicated to the respiratory therapy community! Hosted by Patrick Dunne, this first episode sets the stage for candid conversations about what matters most to respiratory therapists. In this episode, Patrick discusses the challenges facing the profession today, including staffing shortages, increased workloads, and the need for work-life balance. He also highlights the importance of recognizing the true value of respiratory therapists in healthcare, especially in critical care settings. RTMatters aims to provide a platform for RTs to share their stories, discuss career paths, and explore ways to navigate the demands of the profession. You’ll hear from a variety of guests who will share their own journeys and offer insights into overcoming professional challenges. Join us as we begin this journey to support, inspire, and uplift respiratory therapists everywhere! 🔗 Visit our website: www.rtmatters.com #RTMatters #RespiratoryTherapists #Healthcare #RTCommunity #WorkLifeBalance #RespiratoryCare #CriticalCare