Respiratory Therapy Definition
If you or someone you care for experience difficulties breathing, you may have discovered the importance of respiratory therapy. A career in respiratory therapy involves frequent communication among patients and a team of medical professionals. Respiratory therapists also investigate and solve problems concerning patients. They look for practical, hands-on solutions to physical issues.
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Definition
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A respiratory therapist assesses, treats, and cares for patients that have breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Respiratory therapists work with equipment, such as mechanical ventilators and environmental control systems. They also conduct procedures and emergency care, such as artificial respiration. They evaluate patients by interviewing them and conducting a limited physical examination. They may also perform a diagnostic test. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a respiratory therapist may test a patient's breathing capacity to determine the concentration of oxygen and other kinds of gasses in the blood. Respiratory therapists maintain charts and records of patients. Respiratory therapists may work under the direction of a physician. They are also in charge of supervising respiratory therapy technicians.
Environment
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A respiratory therapist work between 35 to 40 hours per week. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most respiratory therapists work in hospitals. Other industries with a high level of employment are specialty hospitals; employment services; nursing care facilities; and the consumer goods rental industry. Since hospitals are open around the clock, respiratory therapists may work beyond conventional hours, such as evenings, nights and weekends. They spend much of their time walking or standing. Respiratory therapists may work under stress during an emergency. Those employed in home health care may frequently travel to homes of patients.
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Education
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An associate's degree is the minimum requirement to become a respiratory therapist. For advancement, a bachelor's or master's degree is vital. All states, with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii, require respiratory therapists be licensed. Most employers require that respiratory therapists have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification. Licensing is based on meeting requirements from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). With further education, respiratory therapists can gain advancement into supervisory, managerial or teaching positions.
Other Qualifications
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Therapists are sensitive to patients' needs, both physical and psychological. Respiratory therapists have to follow instructions, pay attention to detail, and work as a leader or a part of a team. They must also operate with advanced equipment and should be proficient with computers.
Salary
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According to a May 2008 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage of respiratory therapists was $25.55, and the mean annual salary was $53,150. Annual salary ranged from $37,920 to $69,800.
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References
Resources
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