Pulmonary Therapist
A pulmonary therapist is trained to help patients maintain or improve lung function. The initial training can be completed in two years, but pulmonary therapists advance in their field with a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. Pulmonary therapists are medical professionals who work under the supervision of a treating physician and may help patients either in the hospital or at home. A pulmonary therapist can be an important part of the medical team responsible for treating patients suffering with mesothelioma.
Since mesothelioma occurs most frequently in the pleural cavity, pulmonary therapists are commonly involved in treating mesothelioma patients.
Prior to any chest surgery, a physician may recommend that a mesothelioma patient work with a pulmonary therapist to strengthen lung function. After surgery, a pulmonary therapist can assist with the patient’s recovery.
Even where surgery is not advised, pulmonary therapists can help mesothelioma patients to strengthen their lungs and learn to compensate for lung function lost to cancer. Pulmonary therapists also teach mesothelioma patients techniques for clearing their lungs through special coughing methods, to avoid the need to have this process done medically.
Pulmonary therapists also perform pulmonary function tests to measure how effectively a patient’s lungs use air, and how the lungs move oxygen through the patient’s blood. The results of such tests can be used to assess the effectiveness of the pulmonary therapy.
A pulmonary therapist cannot cure mesothelioma. Oncologists and radiologists work to treat the cancer; a pulmonary therapist focuses on slowing the decline of lung function. The better a patient’s lungs are working, the easier it is to perform and enjoy everyday activities.
Pulmonary therapists are usually employed by hospitals. Mesothelioma patients may wish to ask their oncologist or treating physician for the assistance of a pulmonary therapist if one is not provided. Pulmonary therapists work with patients in the hospital on an inpatient or outpatient basis, and also visit patients in the home. Such therapy is generally covered by insurance for patients with mesothelioma, though patients should verify this with their individual carriers.