Only members of the CRTO are permitted to use the title “Respiratory Therapist”, or any variation or abbreviation, or equivalent in another language.  An individual may not in any way hold him/herself out as a person qualified to practice respiratory therapy in the province of Ontario unless registered with the CRTO and employers are responsible for ensuring that an individual is registered with the CRTO prior to practicing in Ontario.  Practicing respiratory therapy includes: the provision of oxygen therapy, cardio-respiratory equipment monitoring and the assessment and treatment of cardio-respiratory and associated disorders to maintain or restore ventilation.

It is considered an offence under the Regulated Health Professions Act to hire an individual to perform controlled acts if the individual is not authorized by virtue of registration with the appropriate regulatory body or through delegation.  The authorized acts for Respiratory Therapists (subject to any terms, conditions or limitations on individual certificates of registration) include:

• Performing a prescribed procedure below the dermis;
• Intubation beyond the point in the nasal passages where they normally narrow or beyond the larynx;
• Suctioning beyond the point in the nasal passages where they normally narrow or beyond the larynx;
• Administering a substance by injection or inhalation; or
• Administering a prescribed substance by inhalation.

To verify the registration of an individual please visit the Public Register.