J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 111(4): 235-240, 2010

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Feature topic

THE ROLE OF CO-MEDICAL STAFF IN SURGICAL TREATMENT FROM THE VIEWPOINT OF RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS

Appropriate perioperative assessment of respiratory function and subsequent respiratory therapy are mandatory to reduce postoperative pulmonary complications and restore pulmonary reserve function after surgery. Preoperative instructions on smoking cessation, expectoration of sputum or coughing, and respiratory training are also useful to shorten hospital admissions. A respiratory support team (RST) composed of physicians and special co-medical staff is necessary to achieve the optimal results for patients. Certified respiratory therapists approved by the Joint Committee on Respiratory Therapy have a particularly important role in performing respiratory therapy. In the near future, interdisciplinary organization and cooperation between various medical staff will be necessary for the smooth management of RSTs in medical institutions.

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