Will AI replace registered respiratory therapists?

Why AI struggles to replace this job

• Physical airway management and suctioning require tactile feedback and precision.
• Responding to a 'Code Blue' requires rapid, physical movement and manual skills.
• Adjusting ventilator settings based on a patient's lung compliance requires clinical intuition.
• Teaching patients and families how to use home equipment involves human education skills.

Tasks AI could automate

• Monitoring oxygen saturation levels and adjusting delivery flow within set limits.
• Analyzing arterial blood gas results and suggesting protocol-based changes.
• Inventory management of ventilators and oxygen tanks.
• Standardized charting of treatment responses.

The 10-year outlook

Job growth is very strong due to the prevalence of respiratory illnesses. Therapists will use AI to better predict which patients are at risk for weaning failure, making the job more focused on precision medicine.

Common questions