Respiratory Therapist Career

Respiratory Therapist Job Description

A respiratory therapist’s job description says, he is a specialist who diagnoses and treats patients suffering from disorders and difficulties associated with the respiratory system. By and large, a respiratory therapist practices under the supervision of proficient physicians and ensures that complete respiratory care, right from the diagnosis of the problem to the appropriate management is carried out correctly.

He confers with other doctors and physicians regarding the holistic health of the patient and changes patient care-programs according to the condition. He manages patients of all ages; premature babies, who have improperly developed lungs, and old people having cardiac diseases.

Respiratory therapists grant respite to those suffering from asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, emphysema, cystic fibrosis; and also handle patients of heart attack, stroke, and cardiac failure. They offer emergency care, like, external cardiac massage, artificial respiration and support with cardio-pulmonary resuscitation.

They monitor the patient's response to the treatment, such as: arterial blood gases, vital signs, blood chemistry alterations; and also discuss with the doctor, when adverse reactions develop.

Respiratory Therapist Education, Certification and Training

• First and foremost, you need a High School Degree, with subjects related to science like chemistry, biology and physics.
• A four years graduation in Respiratory Therapy by National Board for Respiratory Care or a two years associate degree course is needed to become a research therapist.
• You then become a registered research therapist and a certified research therapist. A Certified Respiratory Therapist is trained and can handle cardio-pulmonary disorders and problems, i.e. complications linked to the working of the heart and the lungs.

Respiratory Therapist Jobs

Respiratory therapist’s jobs are on an up-swing. The BLS estimates that employment opportunities for respiratory therapists will grow by 21 % right through 2018, which is faster than the average. This is due to an increase in the number of elderly patients, who are prone to respiratory diseases and complications.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 80 % of respiratory therapists are employed at clinics, hospitals, healthcare facilities and healthcare centers. They have 35 – 40 hours of work per week. Respiratory therapists working at hospitals are required round the clock.

Respiratory Therapist Salary

A respiratory therapist’s salary is approximately $47,000 per year. The salary depends up on the therapist’s education and qualification, employer, location and experience and proficiency.