What is a Respiratory Therapist?

Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who diagnose, treat, and care for patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to elderly patients with chronic respiratory diseases. RTs often work in hospitals, but they can also find employment in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, and doctor's offices.

Training Requirements

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist requires specific training and education. You'll need to enroll in a program that's been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). These programs typically include both classroom and hands-on clinical training. Topics covered in the curriculum include:

• Anatomy and physiology

• Pathophysiology

• Pharmacology

• Medical gas therapy

• Mechanical ventilation

Upon completion of the educational program, you'll be eligible to sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams.

What to Look for in a Class

When it comes to choosing a Respiratory Therapist program, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Accreditation: The program should be accredited by the CoARC. This ensures the program meets industry standards and prepares you for the NBRC exams.

• Curriculum: The program should cover all the necessary areas of study, including pharmacology, pathophysiology, and medical gas therapy.

• Clinical Experience: Hands-on clinical experience is a crucial part of your training. Look for programs that offer ample clinical hours.

• Class Size: Smaller class sizes can mean more personalized attention from instructors.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

Classwork in a Respiratory Therapist program is typically a mix of classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations. You can expect to spend time learning about the theory behind respiratory care, practicing skills in a lab setting, and then applying those skills in a real-world clinical environment.

Certification Process

Once you've completed your educational program, the next step is to get certified. This involves passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination offered by the NBRC. After passing the TMC, you can earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential. To further advance in the field, you can take the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

Finding Related Jobs

After becoming a Respiratory Therapist, there are numerous job opportunities available in various healthcare settings. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and home health agencies are some of the common places that hire RTs. Remember, networking and building professional relationships during your clinical rotations can open doors to job opportunities upon graduation.

Further Classes to Consider

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist can also pave the way to other related healthcare careers. You might consider additional training to become a:

• Pulmonary Function Technologist

• Sleep Disorder Specialist

• Respiratory Therapy Educator

• Respiratory Care Manager

Additional Topics

Continuing Education

To maintain your Respiratory Therapist certification, you'll need to participate in continuing education (CE). CE helps you stay current with advances in respiratory care and can also open doors to new career opportunities.

Career Advancement

There are numerous ways to advance your career as a Respiratory Therapist. You might choose to specialize in a particular area of respiratory care, pursue a management role, or even teach future generations of RTs.

Networking

Networking can help you find job opportunities, learn about new developments in the field, and connect with other professionals who can offer guidance and support.

Staying Current with Industry Trends

Staying up-to-date with the latest research and trends in respiratory care is crucial. It can help you provide the best care to your patients and keep your skills sharp.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist is a rewarding career choice for those interested in healthcare. With the right training and certification, you can make a real difference in the lives of patients with respiratory disorders. Remember, the journey to becoming an RT requires dedication and hard work, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

For those looking to get started in this field, Dreambound's array of city-specific guides can be a valuable resource. And if you're in a different area or mulling over a move, don't miss out on our other helpful guides.

• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Arizona
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Louisiana
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Missouri
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Oklahoma
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Wyoming

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