Respiratory Therapists

As the population ages and chronic conditions become more prevalent, the demand for qualified respiratory therapists (RTs) continues to rise. Advances in medical treatment and longer life expectancy mean more individuals are living with conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. COPD is now the fourth leading cause of death among adults in the United States, increasing the need for specialized professionals who can help patients manage respiratory symptoms and improve quality of life.

🔹 What Respiratory Therapists Do

Respiratory therapists work as part of a collaborative care team, often under the supervision of a physician. They assess patients’ breathing, implement treatment plans, and provide life-saving interventions.

Key responsibilities include:

Evaluating and Diagnosing: Conduct diagnostic tests such as pulmonary function tests and blood gas analysis.
Treating Respiratory Conditions: Administer treatments for conditions like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia, and COVID-19.
Providing Emergency Care: Assist with airway management during emergencies or surgeries, including intubation and ventilation.
Managing Equipment: Operate and maintain ventilators, oxygen therapy equipment, and other respiratory devices.
Patient Education: Instruct patients and families on how to use inhalers, oxygen equipment, and breathing exercises.
Collaborative Care: Coordinate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers to optimize patient care plans.

🏥 Where Respiratory Therapists Work

Respiratory therapists are employed across a range of healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals and acute care facilities
Long-term care and rehabilitation centers
Home health care services
Pulmonary or sleep disorder clinics
Outpatient specialty practices
Medical equipment companies

🎓 Education and Certification Requirements

To become a respiratory therapist, the following educational path is typically required:

Associate’s Degree (A.S.) in Respiratory Therapy (minimum requirement)
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Respiratory Care or a related field is increasingly preferred
Voluntary Certification: Most employers require or prefer candidates to earn the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, both offered through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)

Continuing education is important to maintain certification and stay current with evolving technologies and practices.

🧠 Skills and Qualities for Success

Respiratory therapists must possess a combination of clinical, technical, and interpersonal competencies. Essential attributes include:

Critical Thinking and Decision-Making: Ability to assess patients and quickly determine appropriate interventions
Compassion and Patience: Especially important when working with elderly or chronically ill patients
Attention to Detail: Accuracy in administering treatments and monitoring equipment
Strong Communication Skills: Effective collaboration with healthcare teams and clear communication with patients
Manual Dexterity and Technical Skills: Proficiency in handling complex medical devices and tools
Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, lift, and assist patients throughout long shifts

🔗 Professional Resources

Aspiring and current respiratory therapists can find professional support and credentialing information through:

These organizations provide resources for continuing education, certification preparation, networking, and policy advocacy.

📈 Related Career Pathways

A career in respiratory therapy can lead to various opportunities within the broader healthcare field. Related roles and advancement options include:

Updated: May 19, 2025