Is the testing and demonstration of respiratory care equipment considered respiratory care practice?

The testing and demonstration of respiratory care equipment is not considered respiratory care practice when it is done outside the scope defined for respiratory care practitioners. Respiratory care practice specifically refers to the assessment, treatment, management, control, and care of patients with respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders, which necessitates formal training and the appropriate licensure to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.

While understanding how to operate and demonstrate the use of respiratory care equipment is essential, it does not fall within the licensed act of providing respiratory care unless these activities directly contribute to patient care in a therapeutic setting. Testing and demonstrating equipment may be part of education or training processes but does not encompass the clinical practice that licensed respiratory care practitioners engage in.

In licensed practice, actions must align with the job role that impacts patient care and outcomes. Therefore, the assertion that the testing and demonstration of such equipment is never included ensures clarity about the boundaries of respiratory care practice defined by law and professional standards.