Respiratory therapists use respiratory therapy equipment, gas analyzers and medical gas systems to improve patient health. They take samples (blood-gas analyses, bronchial secretions, etc.). They perform diagnostic testing (for example, pulmonary capacity and electrocardiogram). As part of their work in a hospital setting, they may need to perform quality control procedures on treatment equipment and perform clinical surveillance. It is an essential profession that requires an aptitude for science and a good ability to analyze and synthesize. A career as a respiratory therapist is suited to empathetic individuals who enjoy working with the public and in a team environment.