What to Expect From Respiratory Therapy Training?

Answer 1

Respiratory therapists work in the medical field. Like most health care jobs, a career in respiratory therapy provides job security, and it also allows people to feel good about the work they do. Respiratory therapists must obtain the minimum amount of education and training in order to become licensed in their state. They also complete hands-on training in hospitals and other health care settings.

Education Requirements

Respiratory therapists must have either a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. The associate’s is generally the minimum amount of education for entry into the profession, but the four-year degree will open up more job opportunities. The associate’s degree is offered at many community colleges. The degree consists of courses in health care and science, and it requires students to gain practical hands-on experience in a hospital setting by participating in routine procedures and observing licensed workers. Here is a general listing of courses required for the degree, but courses may vary slightly depending on the school:

--Microbiology

--Pharmacology

--Anatomy and Physiology

--Pulmonary Diagnostics

--Mechanical Ventilation

--Emergency Care

Most states require respiratory therapists to become licensed before they are able to practice. Students must pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam in order to obtain their license. Most states require exam candidates to graduate from an accredited school before they are able to sit for the exam.

Responsibilities of Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory therapists treat patients who have lung disorders and difficulty breathing. Therapists help patients breathe better and feel more comfortable. Patients with emphysema and cystic fibrosis are among those treated by respiratory therapists. Premature infants may also need respiratory care. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals. However, some are employed by nursing homes and home health care agencies.

The job is hands-on. Respiratory therapists work closely with their patients. They measure a patient’s lung capacity, monitor respiratory equipment, administer tests to determine abnormalities in patients’ lungs, and help patients perform rehab exercises. Therapists may also administer oxygen and resuscitate their patients.