How to Become a Respiratory Therapist (Respire to Inspire!)

If you’ve ever envisaged yourself playing a crucial role in the healthcare sector by helping people breathe easier or wondered what it takes to become a respiratory therapist, you’ve landed at the right page.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the PRECISE steps you need to embark on your career as a respiratory therapist. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need to possess.
The education that can pave your way into the field.
How to secure a job as a respiratory therapist.

So, whether you’re new to the healthcare industry or a seasoned professional seeking to specialize, stay tuned.

We’re about to demystify the process to become a respiratory therapist.

Let’s dive in!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Respiratory Therapist

Step 1: Research the Profession

Before embarking on the path to becoming a Respiratory Therapist, it is important to fully understand the profession.

This includes learning about the day-to-day responsibilities of the role, working conditions, and potential growth opportunities.

Respiratory Therapists work with patients who have trouble breathing due to chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma or emphysema, or critical cases like heart attacks or trauma patients.

Their duties include diagnosing lung and breathing disorders, providing treatment, educating patients on lung health, and monitoring and managing therapy programs.

Investigate the working conditions as well.

Respiratory Therapists can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and home care, which can involve different work schedules and environments.

Lastly, research the career trajectory and outlook for Respiratory Therapists.

Consider the demand for this profession in different geographical areas, potential specializations within the field, and opportunities for advancement.

This could include progressing to supervisory roles or specializing in areas such as pediatrics or pulmonology.

This information can be found through various online resources, networking with current Respiratory Therapists, or through informational interviews.

A thorough understanding of the profession will help to ensure that it aligns with your personal interests and career goals.

Step 2: Obtain Basic Education

To become a Respiratory Therapist, the initial step is to obtain a minimum of an associate degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program.

This program will provide you with the basic understanding of the respiratory system, therapeutic procedures, and equipment used in respiratory care.

Courses in this program may include Human Anatomy and Physiology, Cardiopulmonary Diseases, Pharmacology, and more.

The program may also include lab work and clinical rotations, where students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of professionals in a real-world setting.

Remember that the higher your education, the greater your opportunities for advancement in this field.

Therefore, many respiratory therapists choose to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s or even a master’s degree in respiratory care.

This will not only broaden your knowledge but also increase your chances of obtaining leadership or advanced clinical roles.

Make sure to choose an education program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) as this will ensure that you receive a quality education and are prepared to take the necessary certification exams post-graduation.

Step 3: Earn an Associate’s Degree

To become a respiratory therapist, you need to start by earning an associate’s degree in Respiratory Therapy or a related field.

This program typically takes two years to complete and includes both classroom instruction and clinical training.

The coursework generally covers topics such as respiratory health assessment, cardiopulmonary diagnostics, patient care, and respiratory therapy techniques.

The clinical training provides hands-on experience in a healthcare setting where you will work directly with patients, under the supervision of experienced respiratory therapists and other medical professionals.

This practical experience is critical as it allows you to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world situations and gain the necessary skills to work effectively with patients.

Please ensure that the program you choose is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).

Graduating from an accredited program is often a prerequisite to sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) credentialing exams.

Remember, while an associate’s degree is the minimum requirement to become a respiratory therapist, some employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

Therefore, consider continuing your education even after earning your associate’s degree to increase your employability and advance in your career.

Step 4: Gain Clinical Experience

After completing your educational requirements, gaining clinical experience is a crucial step in becoming a respiratory therapist.

This typically involves completing a supervised internship or residency in a hospital or healthcare facility.

Some degree programs might have this as a part of the curriculum, where they offer hands-on training in various respiratory care procedures and techniques.

During this period, you’ll learn how to apply the theoretical knowledge you gained during your coursework, and perform actual respiratory treatments and therapies on patients.

You’ll be taught how to use and maintain respiratory equipment, and also deal with emergency situations.

This experience helps you gain the practical skills necessary for the job.

The duration and specifics of the clinical experience may depend on the requirements of your state or the expectations of potential employers.

It is important to actively engage in this phase of your career development, as it can enhance your understanding of the profession, improve your technical skills, and increase your confidence in providing patient care.

Post this, you may also opt for shadowing experienced respiratory therapists to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges associated with this role better.

Remember, the more experience you gain, the better equipped you’ll be to handle the demands of this role.

Step 5: Obtain Certification

In order to practice as a Respiratory Therapist, you need to obtain certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

The NBRC offers two levels of certification: the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) certification is the first level.

To obtain this, you must have an associate’s degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program and pass the CRT examination.

This test covers areas like therapeutic procedures and equipment, diagnostics, and cardiopulmonary pathophysiology.

The second level of certification is the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

This credential is often preferred by employers and can increase your job prospects.

To obtain the RRT credential, you must first have your CRT certification.

Then, you must pass two additional examinations: the TMC (Therapist Multiple-Choice) exam and the CSE (Clinical Simulation Examination).

It’s important to note that the requirements may vary by state, so it’s necessary to check your local licensing requirements.

Regularly renewing your certification and completing continuing education units (CEUs) is also a crucial part of maintaining your status as a Respiratory Therapist.

Step 6: Pursue Licensure

After earning your degree and gaining some clinical experience, the next step is to pursue licensure.

Every state in the U.S requires respiratory therapists to be licensed before they can start practicing.

The requirements for licensure can vary from state to state, but generally, you’ll need to pass a national exam.

The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) provides the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam, which is a standard licensing requirement across states.

This exam tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as patient care, equipment handling, quality control, and infection control.

After gaining some experience, you may also choose to pursue further certification to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

This involves passing another exam by the NBRC and is often preferred by employers for advanced respiratory therapist positions.

Remember to keep your license current.

This usually involves completing continuing education courses and renewing your license every few years, depending on your state’s regulations.

Always stay updated with your state’s specific licensing requirements.

Step 7: Consider Further Credentials

As you advance in your career as a Respiratory Therapist, you may want to consider obtaining additional credentials.

These can help you further specialize in your field, stay up-to-date with the latest practices and advancements, and increase your career opportunities.

One popular option is to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), which is a certification provided by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

This certification requires a minimum of an associate’s degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program and successful completion of a standardized examination.

It’s recognized nationally and can enhance your job prospects and potential for advancement.

If you’re interested in working with critical care patients or in neonatal and pediatric care, consider pursuing the NBRC’s Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) or Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) credentials.

Each of these requires the RRT certification plus additional specialized experience and examinations.

Another option is to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in respiratory care.

These advanced degrees can lead to management and education roles within the field.

They may also provide deeper knowledge in specialized areas such as pulmonary rehabilitation or sleep disorders.

No matter which path you choose, ongoing education and credentialing are important components of a successful career in respiratory therapy.

They demonstrate your commitment to the field, keep your skills sharp, and open new opportunities for professional growth.

Step 8: Engage in Continuing Education

To keep your skills updated and stay knowledgeable about the latest practices and technologies in respiratory care, it is essential to engage in continuing education as a Respiratory Therapist.

Many professional organizations, like the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), offer a variety of courses and seminars that can help you in this area.

Continuing education is not only a way to enhance your skills, but it is often a requirement to maintain your licensure.

Each state has different requirements, so it’s important to check with your state board to determine what you need to do to stay licensed.

In addition to formal continuing education, you should also stay informed about the latest research and developments in the field.

This can involve reading professional journals, attending conferences, and networking with other professionals in the field.

This will not only help you stay current in your knowledge, but can also provide opportunities for career advancement.

Moreover, you may decide to pursue advanced certifications in areas such as neonatal or pediatric respiratory care, or sleep disorder specialist.

These certifications can make you more competitive in the job market and could potentially lead to higher pay or more advanced job roles.

Remember that the field of respiratory therapy is constantly evolving, so continuous learning and professional development are crucial to your success.

Step 9: Gain Employment

As a freshly certified or licensed Respiratory Therapist, your next step is to start your professional career by gaining employment.

You can apply to hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, pulmonary function laboratories or other healthcare settings that require respiratory care services.

When looking for a job, consider the size and type of the facility, the patient population they serve, and whether the role aligns with your interests and long-term career goals.

For example, if you are interested in neonatal care, consider applying to maternity hospitals or neonatal intensive care units.

During your job hunt, be sure to highlight your qualifications, certifications, and any clinical experiences you gained during your education.

Also, mention any specialties you have, as these can make you more attractive to potential employers.

Networking can be a useful tool in this process.

Make connections with professionals in the field, attend industry events and join professional organizations to increase your chances of finding the right job.

Once you secure your first job as a Respiratory Therapist, aim to continually learn and gain experience.

This will not only help you become better at your job but also open up opportunities for advancement in the future.

Remember, the healthcare field is constantly evolving, so ongoing education and training are key to staying relevant in your profession.

Step 10: Develop Your Professional Network

As a respiratory therapist, building a strong professional network is essential to your career growth and opportunities.

Start by making connections with your instructors and classmates during your educational years.

These relationships will provide you with peers to learn from and can potentially lead to job opportunities in the future.

Join professional organizations such as the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) to meet other professionals in your field.

Attending conferences, seminars, and workshops organized by these associations will provide opportunities to stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in respiratory therapy, as well as to meet and network with experienced therapists and thought leaders in the field.

Consider seeking a mentor who is an experienced respiratory therapist.

A mentor can guide you in your career, offer advice, and help you navigate challenges that come your way.

Also, take advantage of social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other respiratory therapists.

Contribute to discussions, share your insights, and display your expertise.

Networking in this manner can lead to new job opportunities or collaborations.

Remember, developing your professional network is a continuous process and should be done throughout your career.

It is a crucial step in advancing your career as a respiratory therapist.

Step 11: Maintain and Advance Your Career

As a respiratory therapist, it is important to continually develop your skills and knowledge throughout your career.

You might consider gaining additional certifications or specializations to stay current with the latest research and advancements in the field.

For example, you can become a Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist or an Adult Critical Care Specialist.

It’s also beneficial to join professional organizations, such as the American Association for Respiratory Care, to stay connected with your peers, keep up-to-date with industry trends, and access continuous learning opportunities.

Seeking out opportunities for professional development, such as attending workshops, seminars, or conferences, can also contribute to your career advancement.

In addition, you may also consider pursuing a master’s degree or doctorate in respiratory therapy or a related field to further your career, particularly if you are interested in research, academia, or a leadership position.

Don’t forget the importance of networking within your professional community.

Building relationships with other healthcare professionals can open up opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career advancement.

Lastly, it’s crucial to maintain your licensure.

Depending on your state, this may require periodic renewals and continuing education.

Make sure to stay current with these requirements to ensure your ability to practice as a respiratory therapist.

Respiratory Therapist Roles and Responsibilities

Respiratory Therapists are health professionals who evaluate, treat, and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders.

They are crucial healthcare providers, especially for patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases or in critical care situations.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Patient Assessment

Evaluate patients by performing diagnostic tests and assessments.
Conduct physical examinations and patient interviews.
Interpret test results to provide a diagnosis.

Treatment Administration

Develop and implement treatment plans for patients.
Administer therapy treatments like chest physiotherapy, aerosol medications, and mechanical ventilation.
Monitor patient’s physiological responses to therapy such as vital signs and blood chemistry.

Patient Monitoring

Monitor and record the progress of the patient.
Adjust treatments based on patient’s condition and progress.

Emergency Care

Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Manage life support activity, including airway management and heart rhythm regulation.

Equipment Management

Set up and operate devices such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, and aerosol generators.
Maintain and troubleshoot respiratory equipment.

Education

Educate patients and their families about their conditions and teach appropriate disease management techniques.
Provide guidance on home care procedures and use of equipment.

Collaboration

Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and modify patient care plans.
Contribute to team meetings and case conferences.

Documentation

Maintain patient records, including treatment plans, progress notes, and medical histories.
Document all necessary information in patient charts and databases.

Continuous Learning

Stay up-to-date with the latest research, treatment techniques, and professional standards in respiratory care.
Participate in ongoing education and training programs.

Health and Safety

Follow infection control procedures to prevent patient infections.
Ensure patient safety at all times.

Professional Ethics

Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics.
Treat patients and their families with respect and dignity.

What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do?

Respiratory Therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing care for patients with breathing difficulties and cardiopulmonary disorders.

They primarily work in hospitals, but they can also be found in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and sometimes provide home care.

Respiratory Therapists evaluate and treat all types of patients, ranging from premature infants with undeveloped lungs to elderly patients with lung disease.

They provide temporary relief to patients with chronic asthma or emphysema, as well as emergency care to patients who are suffering from a heart attack, stroke, drowning, or shock.

Their duties include interviewing and examining patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders, conducting diagnostic tests, such as measuring lung capacity, and providing treatments like aerosol medications and chest physiotherapy.

Respiratory Therapists also monitor and record the progress of treatment and maintain patient records.

They may also work with doctors to develop patient treatment plans and suggest changes to therapy, based on the patient’s response.

In intensive care units, Respiratory Therapists may connect patients to ventilators and manage ventilator settings to provide the appropriate level of respiratory support.

They often work in a team with other healthcare professionals and play a vital role in life-saving scenarios and ongoing management of patients’ respiratory health.

Essential Respiratory Therapist Skills

Medical Knowledge: Understanding the principles of medical science related to the respiratory system is crucial. This includes anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology of the cardiopulmonary system.
Technical Proficiency: Respiratory therapists must be adept at operating and maintaining various types of medical equipment, including ventilators, oxygen supply devices, and diagnostic equipment.
Patient Care: Respiratory therapists directly interact with patients and perform procedures like administering treatment, conducting tests, and monitoring progress. Excellent patient care skills, including empathy and patience, are essential.
Communication: Respiratory therapists need strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with patients, their families, and the healthcare team. They must clearly explain treatment plans, procedures, and medical conditions.
Problem-solving: The ability to assess patient conditions and formulate effective treatment plans is critical. Respiratory therapists often need to make quick decisions in emergencies.
Physical Stamina: The role often involves standing for long periods, moving patients, and performing physical tasks. Respiratory therapists need physical stamina and strength.
Detail-oriented: Attention to detail is crucial for accurately recording and interpreting data from patient histories, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests.
Time Management: Respiratory therapists often handle multiple patients at once. They must efficiently manage their time to ensure each patient receives appropriate care.
Critical Thinking: The ability to evaluate and apply information to deliver optimal care in rapidly changing health situations is essential.
Compassion: As with any healthcare profession, compassion is a key skill. Respiratory therapists must provide emotional support to patients dealing with serious respiratory conditions.
Knowledge of Safety Procedures: Understanding and following safety procedures and infection control protocols is critical to protect patients and healthcare workers.
Teamwork: Respiratory therapists often work in a team of healthcare professionals. The ability to collaborate effectively, share information, and contribute to a team-focused environment is critical.
Resilience: The role can be stressful and emotionally challenging, dealing with critically ill patients. Resilience and stress management skills are essential for long-term success in this field.
Continuous Learning: Medical science and technology are always evolving. Respiratory therapists must be committed to lifelong learning and staying updated with the latest advancements.
Professionalism: Maintaining a high level of professionalism, including punctuality, ethical conduct, respect for privacy and confidentiality, is fundamental in this role.

Respiratory Therapist Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Entry-Level Respiratory Therapist

Starting as an Entry-Level Respiratory Therapist, you’ll learn the ropes by working under the supervision of experienced colleagues.

At this stage, your duties may include assisting patients with respiratory problems, conducting diagnostic tests, and maintaining respiratory equipment.

Here’s how to excel in this role:

Continuous Learning: Regularly update yourself with the latest respiratory therapy practices and medical technologies.
Communication Skills: Develop strong interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with patients and medical staff.
Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in performing tests, analyzing results, and maintaining patient records.

The Ascent: Registered Respiratory Therapist

With experience and certification, you can progress to a Registered Respiratory Therapist role.

In addition to patient care, you might also be involved in creating treatment plans and educating patients about their conditions.

Tips for success include:

Problem Solving: Enhance your ability to assess patient conditions and determine suitable treatment plans.
Compassion: Showcase empathy and understanding while dealing with patients suffering from respiratory ailments.
Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with a team of healthcare professionals for comprehensive patient care.

Reaching New Heights: Advanced Respiratory Therapist

As an Advanced Respiratory Therapist, you’ll be recognized for your expertise and play a vital role in critical care situations.

You may also mentor junior therapists and contribute to research in the field.

Here’s how to thrive:

Mentorship: Guide and share your knowledge with less experienced therapists.
Critical Thinking: Enhance your ability to make quick, informed decisions in emergency situations.
Research Contribution: Stay updated with latest research and contribute to advancements in respiratory therapy.

Beyond the Horizon: Supervisory Roles and Beyond

Your career may lead to supervisory or managerial roles like a Lead Respiratory Therapist or Respiratory Therapy Manager, where you oversee a team of therapists and manage department operations.

Key focus areas at this stage:

Leadership: Develop strong leadership skills to motivate and guide your team effectively.
Operational Efficiency: Ensure efficient operations of your department, from staff scheduling to equipment maintenance.
Strategic Planning: Participate in strategic planning and policy-making for the respiratory therapy department.

Pinnacle of Success: Director of Respiratory Therapy

Reaching the top, you may become a Director of Respiratory Therapy, responsible for overseeing all respiratory services in a healthcare institution.

You’ll be involved in strategic decisions, budget planning, and setting department goals.

Strategic Leadership: Shape the direction and policies of the respiratory therapy department.
Financial Management: Manage budgets and ensure the efficient use of resources.
Quality Assurance: Oversee quality control procedures to maintain high standards of patient care.

Respiratory Therapist Salary

Entry-Level Respiratory Therapist

Median Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 per year
Entry-level respiratory therapists typically have 0-2 years of experience and must possess an Associate’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy. Certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is also necessary.

Mid-Level Respiratory Therapist

Median Salary: $55,000 – $65,000 per year
Mid-level respiratory therapists have 2-5 years of experience. They often take on more complex cases, and may specialize in areas such as neonatal, pediatric, or adult care.

Senior Respiratory Therapist

Median Salary: $65,000 – $75,000 per year
Senior respiratory therapists possess 5+ years of experience and are often responsible for supervising other therapists, as well as making critical decisions about patient care.

Respiratory Therapy Manager / Director

Median Salary: $75,000 – $85,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve overseeing the respiratory therapy department, managing staff, and making administrative decisions.

Chief Respiratory Therapist / VP of Respiratory Services

Median Salary: $85,000 – $100,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep knowledge of respiratory care, and often involve setting strategies for a hospital or healthcare facility’s respiratory services department.

Respiratory Therapist Work Environment

Respiratory Therapists typically work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and occasionally in patients’ homes.

Their role often involves direct patient care, and they spend a significant amount of time standing and moving around to assess and treat patients.

They might work in various departments including intensive care units (ICU), neonatal intensive care units (NICU), or emergency rooms.

Respiratory Therapists usually work full time and due to the 24/7 nature of healthcare, they often have to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

They may also be required to be on-call for emergencies.

After gaining sufficient experience and expertise, Respiratory Therapists might choose to specialize in a particular area such as pediatric or geriatric care, or even move into education or management roles within the field.

FAQs About Becoming a Respiratory Therapist

What is needed to become a respiratory therapist?

To become a respiratory therapist, you typically need a degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program, which can be a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree.

These programs include courses in human anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, pharmacology, and mathematics.

In addition, you need to pass a national certification exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT).

Many employers also require respiratory therapists to obtain Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials.

Key skills for this role include problem-solving abilities, detail orientation, compassion, and good interpersonal skills.

How long does it take to be a respiratory therapist?

The time it takes to become a respiratory therapist can vary depending on your educational path.

If you pursue an associate degree, it typically takes two years, while a bachelor’s degree program takes four years.

After graduation, you’ll need to pass certification exams, which may take a few months to prepare for and pass.

Some respiratory therapists also choose to pursue additional specialization, which could add more time to their education and training.

Can I be a respiratory therapist without a degree?

No, you cannot become a respiratory therapist without a degree.

The profession requires specialized knowledge and skills that are typically acquired through a formal respiratory therapy program.

These programs provide both classroom education and clinical experiences necessary to practice as a respiratory therapist.

After graduation, you also need to pass certification exams to demonstrate your competence in the field.

Is respiratory therapy a stressful job?

Respiratory therapy can be a stressful job at times, as it often involves dealing with critically ill patients, working in high-pressure situations, and needing to make quick decisions.

However, the level of stress can vary depending on the specific role, work environment, and the individual’s coping strategies.

Many respiratory therapists find the work to be emotionally rewarding and meaningful, which can help offset the stress.

What are the prospects for respiratory therapists in the next decade?

The prospects for respiratory therapists are promising in the next decade.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth is due in part to the large baby-boom population who are increasingly needing respiratory care as they age.

Additionally, advances in prevention, detection, and treatment of respiratory conditions and diseases are expected to increase the demand for respiratory therapists.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Embarking on a journey to become a respiratory therapist is no small feat, but it’s undoubtedly rewarding.

Armed with the right skills, education, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the healthcare field.

Remember, the path may be challenging, but the opportunities are boundless. Your contributions could lead to the next breakthrough in respiratory care, transforming how we treat and manage respiratory diseases.

So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with healthcare professionals. And most importantly, never stop refining your skills.

Because the world is waiting for the difference you can make.

And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in respiratory therapy, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.

This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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