“Collaborative Roles of Respiratory Therapists and Nurses in Optimizing Patient Care: A Comprehensive Review of Practices, Challenges, and Interprofessional Outcomes in Acute and Chronic Care Settings”

Abstract

Interprofessional collaboration between respiratory therapists (RTs) and nurses is essential in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, particularly in managing respiratory conditions across acute and chronic healthcare settings. This comprehensive review examines the evolution of RT and nursing roles, current collaborative practices, challenges faced in diverse clinical environments, and the impact on patient outcomes. Literature published from 2015 onwards was systematically analyzed to identify effective collaborative interventions and models. Findings indicate that in acute care settings, such as intensive care units and emergency departments, RT-nurse collaboration enhances ventilation management, reduces complications, and shortens hospital stays. In chronic care settings, including pulmonary rehabilitation and home care, joint educational and care planning initiatives improve self-management, reduce readmissions, and enhance quality of life for patients with chronic respiratory diseases. However, barriers such as role ambiguity, communication challenges, limited interprofessional training, and organizational constraints continue to hinder optimal collaboration. Strategies to overcome these challenges include implementing interprofessional education programs, establishing clear role definitions, and fostering organizational cultures that prioritize teamwork. This review underscores the need for healthcare policies and educational curricula to strengthen RT-nurse collaboration to achieve better patient outcomes, increase system efficiency, and enhance professional satisfaction. Future research should explore innovative models of integrated care, particularly in community and telehealth settings, to further advance collaborative respiratory care practices.