Lung ultrasound: The emerging role of respiratory therapists

Abstract

Lung ultrasound is a point-of-care imaging tool that is routinely used in acute care medicine. Traditionally, radiology physicians were the primary practitioners of diagnostic ultrasound, but with the recognition of its importance in intensive care medicine, critical care physicians have also adopted this practice. Within the intensive care unit inter-professional team is the respiratory therapist, who participates actively in the care of ventilated patients. Their scope of responsibility is expanding with newer technologies being brought into clinical use on a regular basis. This review focuses on the scope and benefits of ultrasound training within respiratory care–related areas.