What is a Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals specializing in the evaluation, treatment, and care of patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. They play a critical role in managing a diverse set of health conditions ranging from chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and emphysema to emergency care for heart attacks, stroke, and trauma. Respiratory Therapists often work in teams with other health professionals in settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies.

Training Requirements

To become a Respiratory Therapist, you need to undertake specific training and education. The minimum educational requirement is an associate degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program. However, many professionals choose to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree to broaden their career opportunities.

Training for this profession includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Key areas of study include:

• Anatomy and physiology

• Pathophysiology

• Chemistry and physics

• Microbiology

• Pharmacology

• Patient management

What to Look for in a Class

Choosing the right class is crucial for your success as a Respiratory Therapist. Here are some factors to consider:

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

• Curriculum: The curriculum should cover comprehensive respiratory care subjects and provide hands-on clinical experience.

• Faculty: Experienced faculty who are professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and guidance.

• Student support: Look for programs that offer strong student support services, such as academic advising and career placement assistance.

What to Expect From the Day-to-Day Class

Daily life in a Respiratory Therapy class can be engaging and challenging. The course typically combines theoretical learning with practical training. You can expect:

• Classroom lectures for understanding the fundamentals of respiratory care.

• Lab sessions for practicing procedures and techniques.

• Clinical practicum to gain real-world experience under the supervision of experienced professionals.

What Does the Certification Process Look Like?

Certification is an important step in becoming a Respiratory Therapist. After completing the educational requirements, you need to pass a national exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). You can become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) after passing the exam.

For advanced practice and better job prospects, you might choose to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). This requires passing two additional exams: the Written Registry Examination (WRE) and the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE).

How to Find a Related Job

After becoming a certified Respiratory Therapist, you can start your job search. Online job portals, networking with peers and professionals in the field, and leveraging the career placement services of your training program can be effective ways to find job opportunities.

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

Once you become a Respiratory Therapist, there are opportunities for further specialization and career advancement. You may choose to take additional classes in areas like:

• Pediatric respiratory care

• Neonatal respiratory care

• Pulmonary rehabilitation

• Sleep medicine

Additional Topics

Importance of Continued Education

Continued education is crucial in the field of Respiratory Therapy. It helps you stay updated with the latest developments in the field and enhance your skills. Participating in workshops, seminars, and advanced courses can contribute to your professional growth.

Networking and Professional Associations

Joining professional associations can provide networking opportunities and access to resources. The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) is a leading professional organization for Respiratory Therapists.

Practical Experience

Gaining practical experience is critical for a successful career as a Respiratory Therapist. Internships, residencies, or volunteering in healthcare settings can provide valuable insights and enhance your skills.

Ethics and Professionalism

As a healthcare professional, maintaining high standards of ethics and professionalism is paramount. You should always strive to provide the best possible care to your patients and respect their rights and dignity.

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 with respiratory diseases. Whether you are just starting your journey or looking to advance in your career, platforms like Dreambound can provide valuable resources and guidance.

Dreambound is your go-to for city-specific guides if you're starting in this field. And if you're in another location or considering a change, we've written several others as well.

• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Connecticut
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Hawaii
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Maryland
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in North Dakota
• How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in South Carolina

Contemplating a transition in your career or exploring various professional paths? Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

• Surgical Technician Training in San Diego
• Medical Transcriptionist Training in San Diego
• Registered Nurse Training in San Diego
• Sterile Processing Technician Training in San Diego