Respiratory Therapy Scope of Practice (HLTH 408)

Question-and-answer flashcards covering key points of the Respiratory Therapy scope of practice, including controlled acts, CRTO role, authorization, orders, delegation, standards of practice, and collaborative care principles.

Under Ontario’s RHPA, how many controlled acts are recognized across all health professions?

14 controlled acts.

Name three controlled acts Respiratory Therapists are specifically authorized to perform.

Any three of: (1) Prescribed procedures below the dermis or mucous membrane (e.g., arterial puncture, intubation); (2) Administering a substance by injection or inhalation; (3) Tracheal suctioning of a tracheostomy, endotracheal, or nasotracheal tube; (4) Inserting an instrument, hand, or finger into a natural body opening; (5) Applying prescribed forms of energy such as oxygen or mechanical ventilation.

What controlled act allows RTs to perform arterial punctures or intubation?

Performing a prescribed procedure below the dermis or mucous membrane.

Which controlled act covers bronchodilator or oxygen administration by RTs?

Administering a substance by injection or inhalation.

What professional body regulates Respiratory Therapists in Ontario?

The College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario (CRTO).

List two key functions of the CRTO.

Protecting the public by (1) ensuring practitioners meet entry-to-practice competencies, (2) overseeing registration, quality assurance, and enforcement of standards and ethics.

What document outlines expectations for safe, ethical, and effective respiratory care?

The Standards of Practice.

In what two ways can an RT receive authority to perform a controlled act besides direct legislation?

Delegation or medical directives.

Before carrying out a controlled act, what must an RT verify about an order?

That it is valid, appropriate for the patient, within the RT’s scope and competence, and clearly documented.

Define delegation in the context of respiratory therapy.

The legal transfer of authority to perform a controlled act from one regulated professional to another.

What is the primary benefit of collaborative practice among healthcare providers?

Enhanced patient outcomes and safety through effective communication, shared decision-making, and role clarity.

Give two examples of controlled acts generally NOT performed by RTs.

Setting or casting fractures and prescribing or dispensing medication (other acceptable answers include psychotherapy management).

Under Ontario’s RHPA, how many controlled acts are recognized across all health professions?

14 controlled acts.

Name three controlled acts Respiratory Therapists are specifically authorized to perform.

Any three of: (1) Prescribed procedures below the dermis or mucous membrane (e.g., arterial puncture, intubation); (2) Administering a substance by injection or inhalation; (3) Tracheal suctioning of a tracheostomy, endotracheal, or nasotracheal tube; (4) Inserting an instrument, hand, or finger into a natural body opening; (5) Applying prescribed forms of energy such as oxygen or mechanical ventilation.

What controlled act allows RTs to perform arterial punctures or intubation?

Performing a prescribed procedure below the dermis or mucous membrane.

Which controlled act covers bronchodilator or oxygen administration by RTs?

Administering a substance by injection or inhalation.

What professional body regulates Respiratory Therapists in Ontario?

The College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario (CRTO).

List two key functions of the CRTO.

Protecting the public by (1) ensuring practitioners meet entry-to-practice competencies, (2) overseeing registration, quality assurance, and enforcement of standards and ethics.

What document outlines expectations for safe, ethical, and effective respiratory care?

The Standards of Practice.

In what two ways can an RT receive authority to perform a controlled act besides direct legislation?

Delegation or medical directives.

Before carrying out a controlled act, what must an RT verify about an order?

That it is valid, appropriate for the patient, within the RT’s scope and competence, and clearly documented.

Define delegation in the context of respiratory therapy.

The legal transfer of authority to perform a controlled act from one regulated professional to another.

What is the primary benefit of collaborative practice among healthcare providers?

Enhanced patient outcomes and safety through effective communication, shared decision-making, and role clarity.

Give two examples of controlled acts generally NOT performed by RTs.

Setting or casting fractures and prescribing or dispensing medication (other acceptable answers include psychotherapy management).

How does an RT gain authority to perform a controlled act via a medical directive?

A medical directive is a written order by a physician or other authorized prescriber allowing an RT to perform a controlled act for a patient without a direct individual order, provided specific conditions are met.

What principles guide an RT in determining if a controlled act is within their scope of practice?

An RT must always ensure they have the necessary knowledge, skill, and judgment to safely and competently perform any controlled act, adhering to their professional standards and educational preparation.

Who bears primary accountability when an RT performs a controlled act under a medical directive or delegation?

The RT performing the controlled act is accountable for their actions and ensuring they meet all regulatory requirements for its safe and competent execution, even when acting under delegation or a medical directive.