What is A respiratory therapist?
“Respiratory therapists are pulmonologists and are the only medical professionals who receive academic and clinical training in the art and science of mechanical ventilation and advanced respiratory therapies,” says Daniel Garrett, executive director of the American Respiratory Care Association. “Respiratory therapists are vital to the interdisciplinary team that cares for patients who have difficulty breathing. They have the opportunity to specialize in or treat a wide variety of conditions and patients. From a newborn’s first breaths to emergency transport to helping “Elderly patients to manage their conditions. Pulmonary disease, respiratory therapists are there to heal and save lives. It’s a challenging and rewarding profession.”
Even after completing their training requirements, respiratory therapists strive to stay ahead of evolving health care practices and treat the growing number of Americans struggling with heart and lung problems. They perform diagnostic tests for lung capacity, administer respiratory treatments, record patient progress, and consult with physicians and surgeons.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 16 million adults live in the United States Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseasea condition that restricts air flow and causes breathing problems.
Considering the future needs of healthcare, this field has promising career prospects.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 23 percent employment growth for respiratory therapists between 2020 and 2030. During this period, about 31,100 jobs should be created.
How much does a respiratory therapist make?
How to become A respiratory therapist?
The next stage of training is obtaining a license and certificate. There are two basic levels of certification that the National Board of Respiratory Care offers: Certified Respiratory Therapist and Registered Respiratory Therapist. RRT accreditation indicates a more advanced level of knowledge.
Respiratory therapists can also take exams for certifications in adult intensive care, sleep disorders and therapeutic interventions, pulmonary function technology, and infant/child care.
Job Satisfaction
The average American works well into their 60s, so workers may have an enjoyable and fulfilling career. A job with a low stress level, good work-life balance, and strong prospects for improvement, promotion, and higher pay make many employees happy. Here’s how Respiratory therapists Job satisfaction is rated in terms of upward mobility, stress level and flexibility.