Overview
Respiratory therapists work closely with doctors and nurses to help patients who have breathing difficulties from conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or lung disease. They assess lung function, manage ventilators, and provide treatments to improve airflow, contributing significantly to patient recovery in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers.
A career as a respiratory therapist offers stable employment opportunities, rewarding salaries, and meaningful ways to make a difference in healthcare. Ideal candidates enjoy helping others, have strong attention to detail, and want a healthcare career where they can directly improve patients' quality of life.
On a Daily Basis
Respiratory therapists have a vital role in healthcare, focusing on helping patients breathe easier and managing respiratory conditions.
A typical day might include:
- Assessing patients by reviewing their medical history and conducting physical exams to determine respiratory needs.
- Administering respiratory treatments and therapies, such as oxygen therapy, nebulizations, and mechanical ventilation support.
- Monitoring patients’ responses to treatments, recording vital signs, and adjusting therapy as needed to ensure optimal care.
- Collaborating with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement effective care plans.
- Educating patients and their families about respiratory health, treatment options, and self-care techniques.
- Maintaining and troubleshooting respiratory equipment, ensuring proper function and safety during use.
- Keeping detailed and accurate patient records to comply with healthcare regulations and facilitate communication among care teams.
- Participating in continuing education and training to stay current with advancements in respiratory care and technology.
How to Become One
Becoming a respiratory therapist can be a fulfilling career path, allowing you to improve patients' health and well-being. Here are the crucial steps to starting this rewarding career:
- Earn an associate's degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program. Although an associate's degree is the minimum requirement, some opt for a bachelor’s degree for advanced opportunities.
- Complete a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), which is essential for eligibility to obtain professional certification.
- Pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Taking this exam is typically the final step in your educational training.
- Obtain licensure in your state of practice, as most states require respiratory therapists to be licensed. Requirements vary by state, so consult your state’s health board.
- Gain experience through hands-on training during your educational program, and consider continuing your education and training even after entering the field.
- Seek opportunities for specialization by obtaining additional certificates in areas such as neonatal/pediatric care or pulmonary rehabilitation, which can enhance career growth and opportunities.
- Stay current with the latest in respiratory care technology and practices through continuous education and by maintaining your certifications with the NBRC, which may require periodic retesting or continuing education credits.
Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $70,540 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $54,420, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $100,520.
Source – https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291126.htm
About 8,600 openings for respiratory therapists are projected each year, on average, from 2022 to 2032. Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13 percent over the decade, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Source – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/respiratory-therapists.htm
For more detailed information, you can visit the BLS website: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/respiratory-therapists.htm
Job Title
Average Base Salary (2024)
Typical Entry-Level Degree
Respiratory Therapy Technician
$51,220
Associate Degree
$70,540
Associate Degree
Pulmonary Function Technologist
$63,000
Associate/Bachelor's Degree
$85,000
Bachelor’s Degree
Special Skills & Requirements
Becoming a Respiratory Therapist requires special skills and requirements. You need a strong understanding of biological sciences, human anatomy, and physiology. Additionally, excellent communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are essential in this field.
Respiratory therapists must also be detail-oriented, compassionate, and have the ability to work well under pressure.To become a respiratory therapist, you need to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy. You must also pass a national certification exam to practice as a licensed respiratory therapist.
Clinical experience through internships or work experience is also crucial to gaining practical skills in this profession. Overall, a combination of education, hands-on experience, and personal qualities is required to become a successful respiratory therapist.