The latest announcement from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) heralds a momentous occasion in the realm of healthcare education and professional licensure. With 1,077 successful candidates out of 1,383, the February 2024 Respiratory Therapists Licensure Examination, administered by the Board of Respiratory Therapy across various key locations including N. C. R., Baguio, Cebu, Davao, and Zamboanga, paints a portrait of triumph and dedication among aspiring respiratory therapists.
At the forefront of this success stands Cagayan State University - Andrews Campus, proudly claiming the top position with a flawless performance. The campus exhibited an extraordinary 100% passing rate among its cohort of 82 examinees, solidifying its reputation as a bastion of academic excellence. San Pedro College-Davao City, not to be outdone, secured the second position with an impressive 89.86% passing rate among its 148 examinees, reflecting a commitment to nurturing competent healthcare professionals.
This achievement is not merely a testament to individual efforts but also a reflection of the quality education and training provided by these esteemed institutions. Under the provisions of the PRC Modernization Act of 2000, the performance of schools is closely monitored and transparently reported, reinforcing the principles of accountability and integrity within the licensure process. Such initiatives serve as pillars of trust and confidence in the healthcare sector, ensuring that only the most qualified professionals serve the needs of the populace.
Beyond institutional triumphs, the spotlight shines brightly on the exemplary performances of individual candidates who have surpassed expectations with their stellar achievements. Adrian Justin Gallo Marasigan from Perpetual Help College of Manila emerges as the vanguard of excellence, securing the top rank with an outstanding rating of 91.75%. His remarkable feat is closely followed by Jhunry Sajonia Gauiran from Cagayan State University - Andrews Campus, whose notable rating of 91.50% underscores the caliber of education imparted by the institution.
San Pedro College-Davao City further asserts its dominance with two candidates, Hannah Acosta Sakay and Tricia Kaye Burlaza Sobrecarey, both securing the joint third position with an impressive rating of 91.25%. These individuals epitomize the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment required to excel in the field of respiratory therapy.
As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, it is essential to acknowledge the collective effort invested by educators, administrators, and aspiring professionals alike. Their relentless pursuit of excellence serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, driving the continuous advancement of healthcare standards and practices.
Looking ahead, these successes pave the way for a brighter future, characterized by a robust healthcare workforce equipped to address the evolving needs of society. As the respiratory therapy landscape evolves, fueled by innovation and emerging technologies, these achievements serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of professionalism and dedication that defines the healthcare industry.
In conclusion, the February 2024 Respiratory Therapists Licensure Examination not only marks a milestone in the careers of aspiring professionals but also underscores the collective commitment to excellence within the healthcare sector. Through collaboration, perseverance, and a shared vision for a healthier tomorrow, we stand poised to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities on our journey towards a brighter, healthier future.
SOURCE:
PRC Philippines
PRC Philippines
Functions Overview of the Respiratory Therapist Profession
Respiratory therapists (RTs) are healthcare professionals specializing in the assessment, treatment, and care of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and patients' homes. Here’s an overview of their functions:
1. Patient Assessment
- History and Physical Examination: RTs gather medical histories and perform physical examinations focused on the cardiopulmonary system.
- Diagnostic Testing: They conduct and interpret tests such as pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gases (ABGs), and oximetry.
2. Therapeutic Interventions
- Oxygen Therapy: Administering oxygen to patients with low blood oxygen levels.
- Aerosol Medication Administration: Delivering medications via inhalers or nebulizers to manage respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.
- Mechanical Ventilation: Setting up and managing life-support ventilators for patients who cannot breathe independently.
- Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV): Providing CPAP or BiPAP for patients with obstructive sleep apnea or respiratory failure.
3. Airway Management
- Intubation: Inserting tubes into the trachea to maintain an open airway.
- Tracheostomy Care: Maintaining and caring for patients with tracheostomies.
- Suctioning: Removing secretions from the airway to ensure patency.
4. Emergency Care
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Participating in resuscitation efforts during cardiac or respiratory arrest.
- Rapid Response Team: Being part of teams that respond to acute patient decompensations in hospitals.
5. Patient Education
- Disease Management: Educating patients on managing chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis.
- Smoking Cessation: Providing resources and counseling to help patients quit smoking.
- Breathing Exercises: Teaching techniques to improve lung function and breathing efficiency.
6. Rehabilitation
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs: Designing and implementing exercise and education programs for patients recovering from respiratory illnesses or surgeries.
7. Health Promotion and Prevention
- Community Education: Engaging in community outreach to educate the public on respiratory health and prevention of respiratory diseases.
- Vaccination Advocacy: Promoting vaccines such as influenza and pneumococcal to prevent respiratory infections.
8. Administrative and Leadership Roles
- Policy Development: Contributing to the development of clinical policies and protocols.
- Quality Improvement: Participating in or leading initiatives aimed at improving patient care quality and safety.
- Staff Training: Educating and training new RTs or other healthcare staff.
9. Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Clinical Research: Engaging in or supporting research studies to advance the field of respiratory care.
- Implementation of Evidence-Based Practices: Applying the latest research findings to clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
10. Specialized Care Areas
- Neonatal and Pediatric Care: Providing respiratory care for newborns and children, often in NICUs and PICUs.
- Sleep Disorders: Assisting in diagnosing and treating sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea.
Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in the healthcare team, ensuring that patients with respiratory issues receive the best possible care through a combination of clinical expertise, patient education, and therapeutic interventions.