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By Kate Hunger

A group of second-year respiratory care students recently participated in a respiratory health module on asthma for Long School of Medicine students.

Held Feb. 22, the session emphasized the need for and importance of protocols, said Kristina Ramirez, MPH, RRT, CHES, Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education.
The program also offered respiratory care students the opportunity to observe how medical students were taught about an asthma case.

In addition to viewing a video on the role of respiratory therapists, medical students were given demonstrations and key information on the proper use of various inhalers to deliver medication, including a peak flow meter, metered dose inhaler (MDI) with and without spacer, soft mist inhaler (SMI), and dry powder inhalers, as well as nebulizers.

Respiratory care student Megan Adkins-Blanch presented on the MDI, both with and without a spacer. She said that illuminating the perspective and role of respiratory therapists will foster strong teamwork among doctors and respiratory therapists in the future. 
“I think it will really improve connections,” she said.

The presentation also included a discussion of the respiratory therapist’s role in discharge planning, the need for and proper use of asthma action plans to help patients manage their asthma, as well as the role of respiratory therapists during all stages of asthma care, including the emergency room, hospitalization, ICU, discharge and home care.