Key Points:

• Respiratory Therapists manage patients' breathing; Surgical Technicians assist during surgical procedures.
• Respiratory Therapists typically earn higher salaries than Surgical Technicians.
• Both careers have good job prospects, with Respiratory Therapy expected to have faster growth.
• Respiratory Therapists require a bachelor's degree, while Surgical Technicians can complete a certificate or diploma program.
• Respiratory Therapy training is generally more expensive and takes longer than Surgical Technician training.

The healthcare industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right path. Respiratory therapists and surgical technicians are two professions that are often confused with one another due to their similarities in working closely with patients and healthcare providers. However, they have distinct roles and responsibilities. Understanding the key differences between these two occupations can help you make an informed decision about your career path.

What is a Respiratory Therapist and Surgical Technician?

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in evaluating, treating, and caring for patients with respiratory disorders. They work under the supervision of physicians and play a crucial role in managing and treating conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia. Respiratory therapists are responsible for conducting diagnostic tests, administering medications, managing ventilators, and providing patient education on respiratory health.

Surgical Technician

Surgical technicians, also known as surgical technologists, work alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. Their primary role is to ensure that the surgical environment is sterile and ready for procedures. They assist during surgeries by preparing the operating room, arranging surgical instruments, and passing necessary tools to the surgeon. In addition, surgical technicians are responsible for sterilizing equipment, maintaining a clean environment, and monitoring patients' vital signs during surgery.

Difference between a Respiratory Therapist and Surgical Technician

While both respiratory therapists and surgical technicians work in the healthcare industry and provide essential support to medical professionals, there are several key differences between these two occupations:

1. Job Focus: Respiratory therapists primarily focus on the respiratory system and specialize in treating patients with breathing disorders. Surgical technicians, on the other hand, focus on the surgical environment and assist during surgical procedures.

2. Patient Interaction: Respiratory therapists have direct and continuous patient interaction, as they assess, treat, and educate patients with respiratory disorders. Surgical technicians have limited patient interaction and primarily work behind the scenes, ensuring the surgical environment is prepared and sterile.

3. Responsibilities: Respiratory therapists are responsible for conducting diagnostic tests, administering medications, managing ventilators, and providing patient education on respiratory health. Surgical technicians are responsible for preparing the operating room, arranging surgical instruments, passing tools to surgeons, and maintaining a sterile environment.

4. Work Setting: Respiratory therapists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, and sleep disorder centers. Surgical technicians primarily work in operating rooms, but they may also find employment in outpatient surgical centers, dental offices, and other healthcare facilities.

Respiratory Therapist vs Surgical Technician: Job Description

Respiratory Therapist

The job description of a respiratory therapist includes:

• Assessing and evaluating patients with respiratory disorders
• Administering respiratory treatments, medications, and therapies
• Performing diagnostic tests to assess lung function
• Managing and maintaining ventilators for patients who cannot breathe on their own
• Collaborating with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans
• Educating patients and their families on respiratory health and disease management
• Monitoring patients during respiratory therapy treatments
• Documenting patient progress and maintaining accurate medical records

Surgical Technician

The job description of a surgical technician includes:

• Preparing the operating room for surgical procedures
• Sterilizing and arranging surgical instruments and equipment
• Assisting surgeons and nurses during surgeries by passing instruments and supplies
• Monitoring patients' vital signs during surgery
• Maintaining a sterile environment throughout the surgical procedure
• Handling specimens for laboratory analysis
• Cleaning and restocking the operating room after surgeries
• Collaborating with the surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes

Respiratory Therapist vs Surgical Technician: Education and Training

Respiratory Therapist

To become a respiratory therapist, you will need the following education and training:

1. Education: A minimum of an associate's degree in respiratory therapy is required to enter the profession. Some employers may prefer or require a bachelor's degree.

2. Licensure: Respiratory therapists must be licensed in most states. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include completing an accredited respiratory therapy program and passing a national board examination.

3. Certification: While not always required, obtaining certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) can enhance job prospects and career advancement opportunities. The NBRC offers various credentials, including the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) designations.

Surgical Technician

To become a surgical technician, you will need the following education and training:

1. Education: Most surgical technology programs require a high school diploma or equivalent for admission. These programs typically award a certificate or associate's degree upon completion.

2. Certification: While certification is not always mandatory, many employers prefer or require surgical technicians to be certified. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can be obtained by passing an examination.

Respiratory Therapist vs Surgical Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Respiratory Therapist

The career outlook for respiratory therapists is promising, with a projected job growth of 19% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily due to an aging population and increased demand for respiratory care services. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $63,950.

Surgical Technician

The career outlook for surgical technicians is also positive, with a projected job growth of 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and advancements in medical technology, which have led to an increase in surgical procedures. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare industry requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, and career goals. Respiratory therapists and surgical technicians both play vital roles in ensuring the well-being of patients, but their responsibilities and job focus differ significantly. By understanding the differences between these professions, you can make an informed decision about which path aligns best with your interests and goals. Whether you choose to become a respiratory therapist or a surgical technician, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others and contribute to the field of healthcare.

Dreambound provides programs in various locations. Explore these blogs for in-depth information on the two vocations, including their specific requirements and instructions on how to become a part of them:

• Respiratory Therapist in South Dakota
• Surgical Technician in South Dakota
• Respiratory Therapist classes near you