Which of the following best describes the duties of a respiratory therapist?

The duties of a respiratory therapist are best summarized by treating, managing, and evaluating cardiorespiratory system issues. This encompasses a broad range of responsibilities that are critical to the care of patients with respiratory diseases and conditions. Respiratory therapists evaluate patients' lung function, develop treatment plans, administer respiratory therapies such as oxygen and aerosol therapy, and offer assistance in rehabilitative practices. This role is integral in optimizing patients' respiratory health and includes continuous assessment of their condition to ensure appropriate interventions are made when necessary.

In contrast, the other choices do not capture the full scope of practice for respiratory therapists. Providing only medication and monitoring vital signs is a limited view, as it excludes the crucial aspects of assessment and the management of respiratory conditions that are fundamental to the role. Additionally, while injecting medications and inserting catheters might be part of a broader healthcare team’s duties, they do not specifically reflect the core responsibilities of a respiratory therapist. Providing only educational materials to patients overlooks the direct clinical interventions and evaluations that therapists perform; education is an important aspect, but it is just one part of a comprehensive patient care strategy in respiratory therapy.