In the Spotlight: Respiratory Therapists
There are several specialty positions in health care that one should consider before beginning his or her education. One field in high demand is that of the respiratory therapy technician. Basic duties include evaluating, treating and overall care for patients with breathing disorders. Respiratory therapists oversee the care for patients, while respiratory therapy technicians provide specific care procedures under the guidance of a therapist or physician. This article uses the title of respiratory therapists for both the respiratory therapist and the respiratory therapy technician.
Respiratory therapists test the breathing capacity of patients' lungs to aid in the diagnosis of the breathing disorder. Patients breathe into an instrument which measures the volume and flow of oxygen during both inhalation and exhalation. Based on the results of this preliminary test, the respiratory therapist can determine whether initially lung disorders exist. Respiratory therapists work with a number of patients from infants to the elderly.
The majority (80 percent) of respiratory therapists (RT) work at hospitals. The outlook for a respiratory therapist is promising. Respiratory therapists will be moving toward working in respiratory therapy clinics, nursing homes and firms that supply the appropriate equipment. The outlook is especially promising for those with cardiopulmonary or pediatric experience.
Training is recommended for a growing future as a respiratory therapist. According to the Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), there are approximately 330 registered respiratory therapist (RRT) programs and 102 accredited certified respiratory therapist (CRT) programs in the United States. It is strongly encouraged that a respiratory therapist obtain a CRT for entry-level employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Respiratory therapists advance in clinical practice by moving from care of general to critical patients who have significant problems in other organ systems, such as the heart or kidneys. Respiratory therapists, especially those with 4 year degrees, may also advance to supervisory or managerial positions in a respiratory therapy department."
Career Advancement Opportunities are Available
Inova Health System offers a variety of opportunities for new graduates and
experienced respiratory therapists and respiratory therapy technicians. For more
information or to apply online, click here.
More information:
- Respiratory Therapy as a Career
- American Association for Respiratory Care
- The National Board for Respiratory Care
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