Role Model Statement

As health care professionals engaged in the performance of cardiopulmonary care, respiratory therapists must strive to maintain the highest personal and professional standards. In addition to upholding the code of ethic, the respiratory therapist shall serve as a leader and advocate of public health.

The respiratory therapist shall participate in activities leading to awareness of the causes and prevention of pulmonary disease and the problems associated with the cardiopulmonary system. The respiratory therapist shall support the development and promotion of pulmonary disease awareness programs, to include smoking cessation programs, pulmonary function screenings, air pollution monitoring, allergy warnings, and other public education programs.

The respiratory therapist shall support research to improve health and prevent disease.

The respiratory therapist shall provide leadership in determining health promotion and disease prevention activities for students, faculty, practitioners, patients, and the general public.

The respiratory therapist shall serve as a physical example of cardiopulmonary health by abstaining from tobacco use and shall make a special personal effort to eliminate smoking and the use of other tobacco products from the home and work environment.

The respiratory therapist shall strive to be a model for all members of the health care team by demonstrating responsibility and cooperating with other health care professionals to meet the health needs of the public.

Effective 3/90
Revised 3/00