The work experiences and career development expectations of Chinese respiratory therapists: a descriptive qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Respiratory therapists (RTs) play a vital role in healthcare, specializing in the treatment and management of heart and lung conditions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the importance of RTs, little attention has been paid to RTs in the Chinese health system. This study aimed to understand and describe the work experiences and career development expectations of RTs in China.

Methods

This study utilized a qualitative research design and conducted semi-structured, in-depth, audio-recorded interviews with 16 RTs aged 28-40 years, purposively selected from six regions in mainland China from May to June 2024. Qualitative thematic content analysis was conducted to identify and group the themes that emerged from the discourse. Interviews were transcrib

SUBMITTER: Xu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11390457 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature