Respiratory Therapists are healthcare specialists who work with a variety of patients suffering from cardiopulmonary disorders. With technological and scientific advances in the healthcare industry, traditional practices of respiratory therapy through on the job training are no more accepted as an educational pathway for the respiratory therapist (RT). As part of the healthcare team, Respiratory Therapists assist in the evaluation, treatment, management and rehabilitation of respiratory and cardiopulmonary disorders. They learn to care for and treat patients ranging from premature infants to the elderly.