Respiratory Care Week is October 23 through October 29, 2016, giving us a chance to recognize our dedicated respiratory therapists. A Respiratory Therapist is a licensed professional who works closely with other disciplines as a vital member of the health care team. They are trained with critical thinking and assessment skills. They manage mechanical ventilation systems and artificial airways; administer aerosol-based medications; and obtain arterial blood samples and breathing tests to ascertain lung function.