Advance News Magazine, July 29, 2007 By Gene Gill, RRT, a staff therapist practicing geriatrics, EENT, oncology, and critical care at the University of Texas Medical Branch GALVESTON - The respiratory therapist groans as you hand out her assignment. The patient is a 76-year-old curmudgeon with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease whose lengthy lectures about what's wrong with hospitals today are well-known to the respiratory care department. It's easy to let negative attitudes and stereotypes interfere with successful care of elderly patients. They require a bit more time, energy, and empathy from health care personnel. As respiratory managers, it's important to show your staff how these challenges also can bring great rewards.  The unique issues RTs encounter when obtaining arterial blood gas samples are a case in point. Your team not only must be aware of the patient's condition, but also be able to modify physical examination and specimen collection accordingly. All the while, they must maintain good interpersonal skills and compassion.