The Life of a Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists adjust oxygen levels for hospital patients.

Respiratory therapists treat patients with conditions like emphysema or patients who have experienced trauma, such as a near-drowning. Respiratory therapists may also specialize in treating babies who do not have normal lung functionality due to premature birth.

Education

Respiratory therapists must complete an associate’s degree program to secure an entry-level position. Supervisory positions may require the completion of a bachelor’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Working Conditions

Respiratory therapists may work for hospitals, out patient care centers, or for home healthcare providers. Professionals in this occupation normally work 40 hour per week and shifts can include night or weekend hours.

Duties

A respiratory therapist runs blood tests and performs manual testing procedures to evaluate how well a patient is breathing and how much oxygen is present in the patient’s blood. Professionals in this occupation use oxygen tests and aerosol medications to ensure patients receive enough oxygen.

Income

Respiratory therapists can expect to earn an average hourly wage of $26.06 and an average yearly salary figure of $54,200, according to the May 2009 statistics released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 21 percent increase in respiratory therapist positions during the 2008 through 2018 time period.

References

• U.S. Department of Labor-Bureau of Labor Statistics: Respiratory Therapists
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Respiratory Therapists Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009