How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon

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What is a Respiratory Therapist?

Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment and care of patients with respiratory disorders. They work under the supervision of doctors and are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with breathing difficulties. Some of their main responsibilities include:

Conducting respiratory assessments and diagnostic tests
Administering medications and treatments to patients
Setting up and operating respiratory equipment
Monitoring and adjusting ventilator settings
Providing patient education on respiratory health and treatment plans

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Where does a Respiratory Therapist work?

Respiratory Therapists can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals
Clinics
Rehabilitation centers
Home healthcare agencies
Sleep disorder clinics
Long-term care facilities

What are the requirements to become a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon?

To become a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements. These include:

Education:

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
Complete an accredited respiratory therapy program, which can be either an associate degree or a bachelor's degree program.

Legal Requirements:

Pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Obtain a license from the Oregon Respiratory Therapist and Polysomnographic Technologist Licensing Board.
Maintain continuing education credits to renew your license regularly.

Where can I find Respiratory Therapist classes in Oregon?

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon, Dreambound can help you find the right training program. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. You can find Respiratory Therapist classes in Oregon, specifically in Portland, by visiting Dreambound Respiratory Therapy Training. Dreambound offers a comprehensive list of accredited programs, allowing you to easily compare and choose the one that best suits your needs and goals.

How do I get my Respiratory Therapist certification?

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a Respiratory Therapist, the first step is to obtain your certification. Becoming a Respiratory Therapist requires a combination of education, training, and passing a certification exam. Here are the steps you can take to get your Respiratory Therapist certification:

Step 1: Obtain a high school diploma or GED

The first requirement for becoming a Respiratory Therapist is to have a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum educational requirement for most respiratory therapy programs.

Step 2: Complete a respiratory therapy program

The next step is to complete a respiratory therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). These programs can be found at community colleges, technical schools, and universities. The program typically takes about two years to complete and includes both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

During your respiratory therapy program, you will learn about the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, as well as how to diagnose and treat respiratory conditions. You will also gain practical skills in administering respiratory therapies and using respiratory equipment.

Step 3: Apply for a state license

After completing your respiratory therapy program, you will need to apply for a state license to practice as a Respiratory Therapist. The requirements for licensure vary by state, so it's important to check with your state's licensing board for specific guidelines.

In most cases, you will need to submit an application, pay a fee, and provide proof of your education and certification. Some states may also require you to pass a background check and/or submit to fingerprinting.

Step 4: Pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam

Once you have obtained your state license, you will need to pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). This exam assesses your knowledge and skills in the field of respiratory therapy.

The CRT exam consists of two parts: a written multiple-choice section and a clinical simulation section. The written section tests your knowledge of respiratory therapy principles and practices, while the clinical simulation section evaluates your ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Step 5: Optional: Pursue advanced certification

After obtaining your CRT certification, you may choose to pursue advanced certification in a specialized area of respiratory therapy. The NBRC offers several advanced certifications, including the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

The RRT credential is considered the highest level of certification in the field of respiratory therapy and can lead to expanded job opportunities and higher earning potential. To obtain the RRT credential, you will need to pass an additional exam and meet certain clinical experience requirements.

How do I get a job as a Respiratory Therapist?

Once you have obtained your Respiratory Therapist certification, you can start looking for job opportunities in the field. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired as a Respiratory Therapist:

Step 1: Update your resume and cover letter

Before you start applying for jobs, make sure your resume and cover letter are up to date. Highlight your education, certification, and any relevant experience or skills you have acquired during your respiratory therapy program.

Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job you apply for, emphasizing the qualifications and qualities that make you a good fit for that particular position.

Step 2: Network with professionals in the field

Networking can be a valuable tool in finding job opportunities as a Respiratory Therapist. Attend professional conferences, join online forums and social media groups, and reach out to professionals in the field for advice and guidance.

Building relationships with other Respiratory Therapists and healthcare professionals can help you stay informed about job openings and increase your chances of getting hired.

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Step 3: Search for job openings

There are several resources you can use to search for job openings in the field of respiratory therapy. Some popular job search websites include Indeed, LinkedIn, and Monster. You can also check the websites of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations in your area for job postings.

Additionally, consider reaching out to local staffing agencies that specialize in healthcare placements. These agencies can help match you with job opportunities that align with your skills and experience.

Step 4: Prepare for interviews

Once you start getting called for interviews, it's important to be prepared. Research the organization you are interviewing with, familiarize yourself with common interview questions, and practice your answers.

Be prepared to discuss your education, certification, and any relevant experience or skills you have acquired. Highlight your ability to work well under pressure, communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals, and problem-solve in high-stress situations.

Step 5: Follow up after interviews

After each interview, take the time to send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position.

Following up after an interview shows your professionalism and can help you stand out from other candidates.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Respiratory Therapist

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist opens up a variety of career paths and opportunities within the field of respiratory care. Here are some potential career paths you can explore after obtaining your certification:

1. Hospital Respiratory Therapist

Many Respiratory Therapists start their careers working in hospitals. In this role, you will work closely with patients who have respiratory conditions, providing diagnostic and therapeutic services.

Hospital Respiratory Therapists may work in areas such as the emergency department, intensive care unit, or neonatal intensive care unit. They may also be responsible for managing and maintaining respiratory equipment.

2. Home Healthcare Respiratory Therapist

As a Home Healthcare Respiratory Therapist, you will provide respiratory therapy services to patients in their own homes. This may include administering medication, setting up and monitoring respiratory equipment, and providing education and support to patients and their families.

Home healthcare offers a more personalized and flexible work environment, as you will often be working one-on-one with patients. This can be a rewarding career path for those who enjoy building relationships with patients and their families.

3. Sleep Disorder Specialist

Respiratory Therapists with a particular interest in sleep disorders can pursue a career as a Sleep Disorder Specialist. In this role, you will work with patients who have sleep apnea, insomnia, and other sleep-related disorders.

As a Sleep Disorder Specialist, you will conduct sleep studies, diagnose sleep disorders, and develop treatment plans. You may also work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as pulmonologists and neurologists, to provide comprehensive care to patients.

4. Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists work with patients who have chronic lung conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. In this role, you will develop and implement exercise and education programs to help patients manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialists often work in outpatient settings, such as clinics or rehabilitation centers. This career path allows you to work closely with patients over an extended period of time, helping them achieve their health and wellness goals.

5. Respiratory Educator

Respiratory Educators work in academic settings, teaching and training the next generation of Respiratory Therapists. In this role, you will develop and deliver curriculum, supervise clinical rotations, and provide mentorship and guidance to students.

Respiratory Educators may also be involved in research and scholarly activities, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of respiratory therapy. This career path allows you to make a lasting impact by shaping the future of the profession.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist is a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your certification and start your journey in this exciting field.

Remember to stay informed about job opportunities, network with professionals in the field, and be prepared for interviews. Consider exploring different career paths within respiratory therapy to find the one that aligns with your interests and goals.

Whether you choose to work in a hospital, provide home healthcare services, specialize in sleep disorders, or become an educator, your role as a Respiratory Therapist will make a difference in the lives of patients every day.

So if you're passionate about helping others and have an interest in respiratory health, consider becoming a Respiratory Therapist. Your skills and expertise will be in high demand, and you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

Dreambound has a bunch of guides about starting in this field, with specific ones for different cities. If you're not in this city or are thinking about moving, check out some other guides below:

Contemplating a transition in your career or exploring various professional paths? Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

Written by

Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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Where does a Respiratory Therapist work?

Respiratory Therapists can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals
Clinics
Rehabilitation centers
Home healthcare agencies
Sleep disorder clinics
Long-term care facilities

What are the requirements to become a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon?

To become a Respiratory Therapist in Oregon, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements. These include:

Education:

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
Complete an accredited respiratory therapy program, which can be either an associate degree or a bachelor's degree program.

Legal Requirements:

Pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Obtain a license from the Oregon Respiratory Therapist and Polysomnographic Technologist Licensing Board.
Maintain continuing education credits to renew your license regularly.

Where can I find Respiratory Therapist classes in Oregon?

How do I get my Respiratory Therapist certification?

Step 1: Obtain a high school diploma or GED

The first requirement for becoming a Respiratory Therapist is to have a high school diploma or GED. This is the minimum educational requirement for most respiratory therapy programs.

Step 2: Complete a respiratory therapy program

Step 3: Apply for a state license

Step 4: Pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam

Step 5: Optional: Pursue advanced certification

How do I get a job as a Respiratory Therapist?

Step 1: Update your resume and cover letter

Be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job you apply for, emphasizing the qualifications and qualities that make you a good fit for that particular position.

Step 2: Network with professionals in the field

Building relationships with other Respiratory Therapists and healthcare professionals can help you stay informed about job openings and increase your chances of getting hired.

Get courses selected just for you

Try our powerful search engine

Try it now