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How to Become a Respiratory Therapist

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(18 Ratings)

Respiratory therapists evaluate and treat patients with breathing disorders such as asthma, emphysema and cystic fibrosis using a variety of methods and equipment. Follow these simple steps to prepare for a career that literally helps people breathe easier.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Academic Counselings
  • Career Counseling
  • Financial Aid
  1. Step 1

    Take as many courses as possible in biology, chemistry, physics, math and health science during your high school years.

  2. Step 2

    Complete a two-year, post-secondary-level training program in respiratory therapy offered by a hospital, college, vocational-technical school, or branch of the military. These programs include both classroom and clinical components, culminating in an associate's degree.

  3. Step 3

    Pass the licensing exam offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care to become a licensed respiratory therapist. Licensing is required to practice in all but ten states, and is strongly preferred everywhere.

  4. Step 4

    Further your career by additional study to obtain a bachelor's degree. You'll also accumulate more clinical experience.

  5. Step 5

    Maintain your license through required continuing education credits every two years.

Tips & Warnings
  • Opportunities will be greatest for RTs with expertise in treating infants and/or the elderly.

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