Respiratory Therapists are heart and lung specialists. They work with patients of all ages, from premature babies to the elderly. Disease states or conditions often requiring respiratory care include asthma, emphysema, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), pneumonia, cystic fibrosis, and infant respiratory distress syndrome.
Respiratory therapists provide hands-on care that helps people recover from a wide range of medical conditions. Therapists get to know their patients, and their patients’ families. Whenever breathing is an issue, they are there.
You’ll find RTs:
Information obtained from aarc.org.
Yes. When you complete the professional course year, you will graduate with an Associate Degree (AAS). Upon graduation, you are eligible to take the credentialing exams. After successful completion of the credentialing exams, you can receive a state license to practice.
Currently, the BS degree is not required to practice as a Respiratory Therapist. It is recommended for advancement in the career. Our Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care degree is set up for working professionals. All of the courses are online and can be completed at your own pace.
The field of respiratory care provides excellent opportunities for those interested in a dynamic and exciting career in cardiopulmonary sciences. Salaries for respiratory therapists are excellent and compare favorably with other allied health fields. The median annual wage of respiratory therapists is $62,000. Job opportunities for new graduates are also very good. While U.S. employment in general is forecast to increase by 15 percent, the need for respiratory therapists will grow by up to 26 percent making respiratory care one of the fastest growing occupations!
Information obtained from aarc.org.