Question
What are the primary reasons for the gap between educational preparation and clinical practice in respiratory therapy?
Answer
The gap between academic training and clinical practice in respiratory therapy arises from several key factors. One major reason is that different institutions and care settings emphasize distinct priorities. While respiratory therapy programs focus on foundational knowledge, critical thinking, and credentialing exam preparation, clinical environments such as trauma hospitals or home healthcare prioritize rapid interventions, patient-centered care, or chronic disease management. This divergence in focus leads to varied skill sets being emphasized, contributing to a noticeable gap between academic instruction and real-world expectations.
Another reason for this gap is the differing expectations between academic evaluations and clinical performance. In school, students are primarily assessed on their ability to memorize information, perform well in controlled simulations, and pass exams. However, at the bedside, they must apply their knowledge in high-pressure, dynamic situations that require real-time decision-making and interpersonal skills. Bridging this transition from theoretical learning to hands-on patient care can be a significant challenge for new graduates.
Additionally, the healthcare field evolves rapidly, with new technologies, updated protocols, and evidence-based practices regularly introduced. Academic institutions may struggle to incorporate these advancements into their curriculum as quickly as they occur in clinical settings, leaving students less familiar with the latest tools and methods by the time they enter the workforce.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Bridging the Gap: From Student to Professional, presented by Jessica Hewitt, MSOL, RCP, RRT.
