Frequently assigned tasks performed by qualified respiratory therapy personnel are delineated in the document in such a manner that proficiency examinations within the profession can be prepared from them. Four distinct proficiency levels are identified and defined. Due to the fact that proficiency examinations will be assigned for them, proficiency levels two and three are described in greater detail, with information provided regarding the clinical and background knowledge required and appropriate clinical skills necessary for each level. The delineation of roles and functions include: experienced level one personnel, equipment maintenance and repair, and clerical duties; entry level two personnel, intermittent positive pressure breathing, humidity/aerosol therapy, gas therapy, pulmonary draingage procedures, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, cardiorespiratory drug administration, and infection control; entry level three personnel, continuous ventilation (standard and special procedures), airway care (tracheobronchial aspiration and tracheostomy care), emergency care, infection control, cardiorespiratory pharmacology, pulmonary function testing, and cardiorespiratory rehabilitation; and level four personnel, managerial skills, formal/academic respiratory therapy, heart-lung bypass, and cardiopulmonary pediatrics. An official definition of respiratory therapy and a glossary of terms used in the document are appended. The document is supplemented by A Guide for Respiratory Therapy Curriculum Design (CE 005 956). (LH)