Evaluating the Role of Respiratory Therapists in Pulmonary Function Testing: Impact on Diagnostic Accuracy and Patient Care

Authors: Wafa M. Al-Malack, Hoda A. Khoutan, Eman M. Alanizi, Saja A. Almarhoun, Abdullah G. Alshubaili, Aishah R. Alanazi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13682523

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt9jmv

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Pulmonary function testing (PFT) is essential for diagnosing and managing respiratory diseases. Respiratory therapists (RTs) play a crucial role in conducting and interpreting these tests, but their impact on diagnostic accuracy and patient care has not been thoroughly evaluated.
Objective: This study evaluates the impact of respiratory therapists on the accuracy of pulmonary function testing and subsequent patient care, comparing outcomes in settings with and without RT involvement.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 400 patients in a large tertiary care hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: those whose PFTs were performed and interpreted with RT involvement (RT Group) and those without RT involvement (Non-RT Group). Diagnostic accuracy, patient management decisions, and 12-month patient outcomes were analyzed.
Results: The RT Group demonstrated significantly higher diagnostic accuracy (92.5% vs. 81.0%, p < 0.001) and more appropriate treatment adjustments (75.0% vs. 60.0%, p = 0.005) compared to the Non-RT Group. Additionally, the RT Group had lower hospitalization rates (15.0% vs. 25.0%, p = 0.018) and reduced disease progression (10.0% vs. 18.0%, p = 0.022).
Conclusion: Respiratory therapists significantly enhance the accuracy of pulmonary function testing, leading to better patient management and outcomes. Integrating RTs into the PFT process is essential for optimizing respiratory care.

Keywords: Pulmonary function testing, respiratory therapists, diagnostic accuracy, patient outcomes, spirometry, respiratory care

Paper Id: 231121

Published On: 2017-08-08

Published In: Volume 5, Issue 4, July-August 2017

Cite This: Evaluating the Role of Respiratory Therapists in Pulmonary Function Testing: Impact on Diagnostic Accuracy and Patient Care - Wafa M. Al-Malack, Hoda A. Khoutan, Eman M. Alanizi, Saja A. Almarhoun, Abdullah G. Alshubaili, Aishah R. Alanazi - IJIRMPS Volume 5, Issue 4, July-August 2017. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13682523

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