Outpatient care, acute care, teaching, and department manager are the four types of respiratory therapist careers. A respiratory therapist is a health-care professional who specializes in respiratory illnesses and conditions. All therapists in the United States must pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam (CRT). The National Board for Respiratory Care administers this written exam, which assesses candidates’ knowledge of the respiratory system, treatments, and assessment skills.
Outpatient care is where most respiratory therapists begin their careers. Respiratory therapists are employed a home health care or government agency to treat patients with long-term chronic respiratory diseases. Patients in this category can live in their own homes, long-term care facilities, or rehabilitation centers. Because the therapist must travel to the client’s location, a driver’s license is essential for this first job opportunity.
Intensive care Respiratory therapists work in large hospital emergency rooms. Patients with chronic respiratory distress, difficulty breathing, or a breathing-related injury are referred to them. She can quickly assess the situation as a respiratory specialist and determine if there are any immediate steps that can be taken to alleviate discomfort and assist the patient.
Many respiratory therapists transition into teaching after ten years of experience. Community and career colleges have instructor positions available. It is a good idea to complete an adult education certificate in order to qualify for these opportunities. This additional training teaches you the skills you’ll need to be a successful instructor.
To advance a respiratory therapist’s career to management level positions, additional training is frequently required. A master of business administration (MBA) degree or a certificate in management are both relevant programs. Both of these training options are available part-time, in the evenings and on weekends. There are many ways to advance and improve your career, but it’s important to remember that patient interaction will be a part of every job. People who are most satisfied with their careers as respiratory therapists enjoy helping others, are responsible, and have a strong commitment to service.
The respiratory therapist is a member of the health services team, despite the fact that they perform many of their tasks independently. To be successful in this role, you must have excellent communication and teamwork skills. Respiratory therapy patients are medically fragile or have multiple medical conditions. Coordination and communication aid both the patient and the rest of the team in providing the appropriate level of care.