When it comes to choosing a career path in the medical field, there are many options to consider. Two popular choices are becoming a respiratory therapist or a veterinary assistant. While both careers involve working with patients and providing medical care, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a respiratory therapist and a veterinary assistant, the job descriptions for each, the education and training required, and the career outlook and salary potential.

What is a Respiratory Therapist and Veterinary Assistant?

Respiratory Therapist:

A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment, treatment, and care of patients with breathing disorders. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare providers to develop and implement treatment plans for patients with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory distress syndrome. Respiratory therapists may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings.

Veterinary Assistant:

A veterinary assistant is a healthcare professional who provides basic care and support to animals under the supervision of a veterinarian. They assist with routine procedures, such as vaccinations and examinations, and may also provide support during surgeries and other medical procedures. Veterinary assistants work primarily in veterinary clinics and animal hospitals, but they may also find employment in research facilities or animal shelters.

Difference between a Respiratory Therapist and Veterinary Assistant

While both respiratory therapists and veterinary assistants work in the medical field, there are some key differences between the two professions. These differences include:

Patient Population:

• Respiratory therapists primarily work with human patients, while veterinary assistants work with animals.
• Respiratory therapists focus on treating patients with respiratory disorders, while veterinary assistants provide general care for animals.

Scope of Practice:

• Respiratory therapists have a broader scope of practice, as they are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating respiratory disorders in patients.
• Veterinary assistants have a more limited scope of practice and work under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Training and Education:

• Respiratory therapists typically require a minimum of an associate's degree in respiratory therapy, although some may choose to pursue a bachelor's degree or higher.
• Veterinary assistants typically only need a high school diploma or equivalent, although some may choose to pursue a certification program to enhance their skills and job prospects.

Job Responsibilities:

• Respiratory therapists are responsible for performing diagnostic tests, developing treatment plans, administering medications, and monitoring patients' progress.
• Veterinary assistants are responsible for providing basic care to animals, including feeding, bathing, and exercising them, as well as assisting with routine procedures and maintaining medical records.

Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant: Job Description

Respiratory Therapist:

• Assessing patients' respiratory conditions and performing diagnostic tests, such as measuring lung capacity and oxygen levels.
• Developing and implementing treatment plans for patients with respiratory disorders.
• Administering medications and therapies, such as oxygen therapy and breathing exercises.
• Monitoring patients' progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.
• Educating patients and their families about respiratory disorders and self-care techniques.

Veterinary Assistant:

• Assisting with routine procedures, such as vaccinations and examinations.
• Providing basic care for animals, including feeding, bathing, and exercising them.
• Assisting with surgeries and other medical procedures.
• Maintaining medical records and updating patient information.
• Educating pet owners about basic animal care and providing advice on nutrition and behavior.

Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant: Education and Training

Respiratory Therapist:

• To become a respiratory therapist, one must complete a minimum of an associate's degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program.
• Some respiratory therapists may choose to pursue a bachelor's degree or higher to enhance their career prospects.
• In addition to formal education, respiratory therapists must also obtain a state license to practice, which typically involves passing a licensing exam.

Veterinary Assistant:

• While a high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement for becoming a veterinary assistant, some individuals may choose to complete a certification program to gain additional skills and enhance their job prospects.
• Certification programs for veterinary assistants typically cover topics such as animal anatomy, medical terminology, and basic animal care.
• Certification is not always required, but it can demonstrate a higher level of knowledge and dedication to the field.

Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

Respiratory Therapist:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $62,810 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $87,490.

Veterinary Assistant:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of veterinary assistants is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for veterinary assistants was $29,380 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $41,490.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the medical field can be a rewarding and fulfilling decision. Both respiratory therapy and veterinary assisting offer opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients, whether they are humans or animals. While respiratory therapists have a more specialized scope of practice and require more education and training, veterinary assistants can enter the field with just a high school diploma or equivalent. Ultimately, the choice between these two careers will depend on your interests, career goals, and passion for working with either human patients or animals. Whichever path you choose, both careers offer the opportunity to make a positive impact in the healthcare field.

Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:

• Respiratory Therapist in Tennessee
• Veterinary Assistant in Tennessee
• Respiratory Therapist classes near you
• Veterinary Assistant classes near you