Laura M. Smith, RCP

Certified Critical Care Respiratory Therapist

Ms. Laura M. Smith is a Certified Critical Care Respiratory Therapist in Los Angeles, CA with special training and skill in respiratory care during critical illness. As a Certified Critical Care Respiratory Therapist, Laura M. Smith, RCP performs respiratory treatments in intensive care units. Critical Care Respiratory Therapy - Certified is the treatment of critically ill or injured patients with cardiopulmonary system disorders. Significant diseases and conditions treated by Certified Critical Care Respiratory Therapists include asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, pneumonia, lung infections, trauma, and cancer. Medical tests, procedures and therapies provided by Certified Critical Care Respiratory Therapists include imaging tests, sputum tests, prescription medication, and mechanical ventilation.

Respiratory emergencies are commonplace in the treatment of critical care patients. Included in the assessment measurements conducted by the respiratory therapist in the critical care settings are arterial blood gas puncture and analysis, intrarterial monitoring, bedside measurements of lung mechanics, hemodynamic monitoring, and inspired and expired gas measurements. This is coupled with the initiation and management of mechanical ventilation patients.