Richard B. Wettstein

Richard B. Wettstein, MMEd, RRT, FAARC, FCCP is an Associate Professor and Program Director in the Department of Respiratory Care at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where he also serves as Associate Chair of the Department of Health Sciences. With over 20 years of global experience teaching in Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, he mentors students, medical residents, and junior faculty while championing evidence-based patient care and advocacy. His leadership drives clinical education excellence, with graduates consistently praised by healthcare partners for exceptional professionalism and clinical skills.

Dr. Wettstein's research centers on mechanical ventilation optimization in critical care, focusing on tidal volume selection, APRV protocols, prone positioning adherence, and oxygen therapy innovations. His work bridges clinical practice and education through simulation-based training and pandemic-responsive solutions like Automated Bag Breathing Units. Recent publications (2017-2024) reveal persistent investigation into ventilator management gaps, protocol implementation barriers, and educational strategies for respiratory care professionals.

His publication trends demonstrate consistent attention to ICU ventilation safety, with increasing emphasis on pandemic-era device innovation and educational integration. Key themes include protocol adherence analysis, ventilator mode standardization, and simulation-enhanced training methodologies across diverse healthcare settings.

Scientific Honors:

• Fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care (FAARC)
• Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians (FCCP)

As Program Director, Dr. Wettstein has mentored generations of respiratory care students and medical residents, emphasizing critical thinking and patient advocacy. His mentorship philosophy celebrates overcoming academic challenges to produce highly skilled clinicians, with graduates now influencing healthcare standards globally. While specific grant details aren't documented, his work on ECMO curriculum integration and ventilator shortage solutions demonstrates significant program development impact.

Dr. Wettstein collaborates extensively with clinical partners across multiple countries and leads simulation-based training initiatives using standardized patients. His Automated Bag Breathing Unit research during the COVID-19 pandemic involved interdisciplinary emergency response teams, highlighting his capacity for rapid innovation during healthcare crises.