What is a Respiratory Therapist?

A respiratory therapist is a specialized healthcare professional who is trained to evaluate, treat, and care for patients who have difficulty breathing or suffer from cardiopulmonary disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from premature babies with undeveloped lungs to elderly people with lung disease. A respiratory therapist's main goal is to restore patients' lung function to the best possible levels.

Training Requirements

To become a respiratory therapist, you need to complete a respiratory therapy program from an accredited institution. These programs typically take around two years to complete and result in an associate degree. Some of the courses you would take in a respiratory therapy program include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, and respiratory care procedures. In addition, clinical practice is a crucial part of the training.

What to Look for in a Class

When searching for a respiratory therapist class, there are several factors to consider:

• Accreditation: The course should be accredited by a recognized body, which ensures that the program adheres to industry standards.

• Course Content: The course should cover the necessary theoretical and practical aspects of respiratory therapy.

• Faculty: The instructors should be experienced professionals in the field of respiratory therapy.

• Facilities: The institution should have the necessary equipment and facilities for practical learning.

• Student Support: Look for courses that provide student support services like tutoring, career guidance, and financial aid.

What to Expect from the Day-to-Day Class

In a respiratory therapy class, you can expect a mix of classroom learning, laboratory practice, and clinical rotations.

• Classroom Learning: This involves lectures, discussions, and assessments. You'll learn about various topics related to respiratory care.

• Laboratory Practice: In the lab, you'll practice what you've learned in the classroom, using equipment and procedures used in respiratory care.

• Clinical Rotations: This is the hands-on part of the training, where you'll work with patients under the supervision of professional respiratory therapists.

What Does the Certification Process Look Like?

After completing the training program, you need to pass a national exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). After gaining some experience, you can take another exam to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

How to Find Related Jobs

After becoming a certified respiratory therapist, you can apply for jobs in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient centers, and home health agencies. Websites like Dreambound can help you find job openings in your area.

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

Once you're a certified respiratory therapist, you can opt to specialize in certain areas. For instance, you may want to become a neonatal/pediatric specialist or a sleep disorder specialist. Additional classes and certifications will be required for these specializations.

The Importance of Continuing Education

Continuing education is crucial for a respiratory therapist. The field of healthcare is constantly evolving, and new techniques and technologies are regularly introduced. By taking continuing education classes, you can stay updated with the latest developments in your field.

The Role of Professional Associations

Joining professional associations like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) can be beneficial. Not only do they provide opportunities for continuing education, but they also offer networking opportunities, resources, and access to industry events.

Advancement Opportunities

As a respiratory therapist, there are several advancement opportunities available. With additional education and experience, you can move into positions such as supervisor or manager. Some respiratory therapists also choose to move into education or research roles.

The Impact of Respiratory Therapists on Patient Care

Respiratory therapists play a vital role in patient care. They work directly with patients, helping to improve their breathing and overall quality of life. They also work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.

Final Thoughts

A career as a respiratory therapist can be both rewarding and challenging. It offers the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives and provides a promising career outlook. If you're in Orlando and interested in this career path, start by finding the right training program. Websites like Dreambound can help you find the perfect class.

Explore Dreambound's in-depth guides, each shedding light on the unique requirements and challenges in cities across the US. For more insights, be sure to check out our other guides.

• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in California
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Kansas
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Michigan
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Oklahoma
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Washington

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