§ 8501. Definition of the practice of respiratory therapy. The
practice of the profession of respiratory therapy, which shall be
undertaken pursuant to the direction of a duly licensed physician, is
defined as the performance of cardiopulmonary evaluation, respiratory
therapy treatment techniques, and education of the patient, family and
public.

1. Evaluation shall include the acquisition, analysis and
interpretation of data obtained from physiological specimens, performing
diagnostic tests, studies and research of the cardiopulmonary system and
neurophysiological studies related to respiratory care.

2. Therapy shall include the application and monitoring of medical
gases (excluding anesthetic gases) and environmental control systems,
mechanical ventilatory support, artificial airway care, bronchopulmonary
hygiene, pharmacologic agents related to respiratory care procedures,
and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation related and limited to respiratory
care.

3. Respiratory therapy services may be performed pursuant to a
prescription of a licensed physician or certified nurse practitioner.