What is a Respiratory Therapist?

A Respiratory Therapist is a healthcare professional specializing in the assessment and treatment of patients with both acute and chronic dysfunction of the cardiopulmonary system. They work with patients of all ages, from premature infants with undeveloped lungs to elderly patients dealing with diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

Training Requirements

The path to becoming a Respiratory Therapist typically involves the following steps:

• Earning a high school diploma or equivalent

• Completing a two-year associate degree in Respiratory Therapy from an accredited program

• Passing the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)'s certification exam

Most programs provide a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training in laboratories or clinical settings.

What to Look for in a Class?

When searching for Respiratory Therapist classes, students should consider several factors:

• Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).

• Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers all essential aspects of respiratory care.

• Clinical Experience: A good program will provide students with ample opportunities for hands-on clinical experience.

For more insights on choosing the right class, you can refer to this guide.

What to Expect from Day-to-Day Classes?

In a typical Respiratory Therapist class, students can expect:

• Classroom Instruction: This includes lectures on subjects like anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, microbiology, and pharmacology.

• Laboratory Sessions: Here, students get to practice procedures such as pulmonary function testing and mechanical ventilation.

• Clinical Rotations: These offer real-world experience in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and home care environments.

What Does the Certification Process Look Like?

After completing their training, students must pass a certification exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential is the first level of certification. After gaining some experience, therapists can advance to the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

How to Find Related Jobs?

Once certified, Respiratory Therapists can find job opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and home healthcare services. Networking, utilizing job search websites, and leveraging the career services of your training program can be effective ways to find job opportunities.

What Other Classes Can Someone Take After Becoming a Respiratory Therapist?

After becoming a Respiratory Therapist, individuals may choose to further their knowledge by taking additional classes or earning advanced degrees. Potential options include:

• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

• Bachelor or Master degree in Respiratory Therapy or a related field

Further training can open up opportunities for roles in education, research, or management within the field of respiratory care.

Importance of Continuing Education

Respiratory Therapists need to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in medical knowledge and techniques. Regular continuing education is essential for maintaining certification and delivering the best patient care. Many professional organizations offer continuing education opportunities.

Opportunities for Specialization

After gaining experience, Respiratory Therapists can choose to specialize in areas such as neonatal/pediatric care, critical care, sleep medicine, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Specialization often requires additional training and certification.

Professional Organizations for Networking

Joining professional organizations such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) can offer valuable networking opportunities, access to resources, and continuing education options.

The Role of Technology in Respiratory Therapy

Technology plays a crucial role in respiratory care, with therapists utilizing equipment for ventilation, oxygen delivery, and diagnostic testing. Understanding and staying current with technological advancements is vital for modern Respiratory Therapists.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. With the right training and dedication, you can make a significant difference in the lives of patients. Whether you're just starting your career journey or looking to specialize further, resources like those found on Dreambound can provide valuable guidance. Remember, the journey to becoming a Respiratory Therapist is a marathon, not a sprint. With the right mindset and resources, you can reach your career goals in Columbia and beyond.

Dreambound has written many guides to help you understand what it takes to get this certification. If you're curious about the process or requirements in other states, check out our other guides below:

• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in California
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Georgia
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Nevada
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in New Mexico
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Vermont

Contemplating a change in your career path? Dreambound has written many comprehensive guides to aid you in making well-informed decisions.

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