When it comes to health, there’s
nothing more fundamental than breathing.
Respiratory therapists support all aspects of
patients’ breathing and lung functions.
Respiratory therapists work with patients to
make sure they are breathing
as comfortably as possible and
receiving adequate oxygen…
whether patients have a chronic lung disease…
underdeveloped lungs at birth…
or are recovering from trauma
such as a heart attack or near-drowning.
Respiratory therapists monitor
and perform tests to assess
patients’ lung capacity, and
assist with treatments such as
nebulizers -- devices that administer
medications into the lungs.
They also assist with placement of
breathing tubes and with drawing arterial
blood to assess patient oxygen levels.
Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals.
There, much of their time is spent
operating mechanical ventilators
for patients with breathing tubes.
They also work in long-term care facilities.
These healthcare professionals generally
work full time, and may work
evenings, weekends, and serve on call.
Respiratory therapists generally need
at least an associate’s degree in
respiratory therapy, and a license to practice.
Some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree.