Respiratory nurses

Respiratory nurses care for patients in hospital, outpatient clinics, where you live, and over the phone.

They work with other health professionals to support people to manage their symptoms as best as possible. They are often the key link in organising your care.

Respiratory nurses provide specialist care to people with respiratory diseases. This includes asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and bronchitis.

Their role is to provide:

Support and advice
Explanations about respiratory difficulties and treatments
Education to support patients to manage their disease
Referrals to other services, for you and your family

You would usually be referred by your GP or a doctor in the respiratory team. You may be referred by another member of the respiratory team, like a physio or pharmacist.

You can be referred from the community, while in hospital or after leaving hospital.

Respiratory nurses use a range of assessments to understand your symptoms. This helps guide treatment specific to you.

Depending on your needs and preference, your care could be over the phone or face to face.

You will usually receive an appointment letter in the post. Sometimes, especially for more urgent contact, you may receive a phone call instead.

Respiratory nurses will want to know: