INTRODUCTION

For several decades, Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) have worked alongside anesthetists in Ontario operating rooms, providing technical support on the proper use and maintenance of the anesthetic gas machine in addition to airway management. Since the implementation of the Anesthesia Care Team model in 2009, the role of Respiratory Therapists practicing under the supervision of an anesthesiologist has evolved to include several additional activities, such as the provision of conscious sedation, administration of anesthetic gas medications, insertion and management of arterial lines and the assessment of the depth of anesthesia. The locations where RRTs now provide these services have also expanded to include labor and delivery, emergency departments, and specialty suites such as endoscopy and private dental practices.