Introduction
If you are considering a healthcare career that allows you to directly impact the lives of patients, consider becoming a respiratory therapist. Respiratory therapists are vital members of the healthcare team who evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. The field of respiratory therapy is dynamic, rewarding, and growing. In this article, we will explore how to become a respiratory therapist, the required education and credentials, job prospects, and salary and job outlook.
Step-by-Step Guide
To become a respiratory therapist, you will need to complete several steps, including education and training, certification and licensure, clinical experience, and continuing education.
Education and Training Requirements
To become a respiratory therapist, you will need to obtain at least an associate degree in respiratory therapy from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). These programs typically take two years to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students learn about anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, and respiratory therapy techniques.
Certification and Licensure Requirements
To work as a respiratory therapist, you will need to be licensed in the state where you practice. Licensing requirements vary by state, but typically, you will need to have graduated from an accredited respiratory therapy program and passed a national examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Certification by the NBRC is voluntary, but many employers require it. Certification proves that you have met national standards for respiratory therapy practice.
Job Requirements
After completing your education and obtaining your license and certification, you will need to gain clinical experience. Many employers prefer to hire respiratory therapists who have spent time working in a clinical setting. Some states require a certain number of hours of clinical experience before you can apply for a license. Continuing education is also required to maintain certification and keep up with advances in the field.
Required Credentials
To become a respiratory therapist, you will need to obtain certain degrees, certifications, and other qualifications.
Degrees, Certifications, and Other Qualifications
As mentioned earlier, you will need to have at least an associate degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program. However, some employers may prefer to hire respiratory therapists with a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Additional certifications are available and can demonstrate specialized expertise to potential employers.
Education and Training
It is important to carefully research respiratory therapy programs to ensure that they are accredited by CoARC. Programs may vary in cost, location, and length of time required to complete. Many programs offer hands-on clinical experience, often in hospitals. This experience can be a valuable asset when applying for jobs in the field.
Career Opportunities
Respiratory therapists have a variety of settings in which they can work, including hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, sleep disorder clinics, and private practices.
Job Prospects
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The aging population and the increase in respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD are driving this demand.
Finding Job Openings
Job openings for respiratory therapists can be found on online job boards and hospital and clinic websites. Many organizations offer career fairs or job postings. Networking with respiratory therapists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals can be a powerful tool in finding job opportunities.
Salary and Job Outlook
The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $61,330 in May 2020, according to the BLS. Those working in hospitals tend to earn more than those in outpatient care centers. Career advancement opportunities may include supervisory roles, teaching positions, or management roles.
Other Career Opportunities in the Field
Respiratory therapists may specialize in pediatric or neonatal care, critical care, home care, or sleep disorder medicine. Some may continue their education and become physician assistants or nurse practitioners.
Skills and Competencies
Respiratory therapists need a variety of skills and competencies to succeed in their roles.
Communication Skills
Respiratory therapists must communicate clearly with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
Technical Expertise
Respiratory therapists must be knowledgeable about respiratory therapy equipment and procedures.
Problem-Solving Skills
Respiratory therapists must analyze patients’ conditions and adapt treatments to meet their individual needs.
Attention to Detail
Respiratory therapists must be detail-oriented when working with sensitive medical equipment.
Professional Associations
Respiratory therapists can benefit from joining professional organizations and associations such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) and the National Association for Medical Direction of Respiratory Care (NAMDRC). These organizations offer scholarship opportunities, continuing education, and networking events.
Day in the Life
A typical day in the life of a respiratory therapist may include evaluating patients, performing diagnostic tests, maintaining medical equipment, and administering treatments such as oxygen and medication. Patient education and charting are also important parts of the job. Common challenges may include working with difficult or uncooperative patients, maintaining equipment, and managing time effectively. On the other hand, a rewarding aspect of the job is being able to improve the quality of life for patients.
Conclusion
Becoming a respiratory therapist can be a fulfilling career choice offering varied job settings, competitive salaries, and a growing job market. With the right education and credentials, you can embark on a career that allows you to positively impact the lives of patients and make a valuable contribution to the healthcare industry.
