Are you curious about a career as a Respiratory Therapist in the United States of America? Now you can learn what Respiratory Therapists do, the work environment, how to become one, salary, and job outlook.
Respiratory therapists work in healthcare settings helping patients with respiratory problems recover by administering therapies such as oxygen, intravenous (IV) fluids, or other medications. Respiratory therapists also care for patients in intensive care units, emergency rooms, operating rooms, and clinics. A respiratory therapist’s job duties often involve tasks that require physical effort such as lifting, bending, pushing, and pulling. Respiratory therapists are licensed professionals in many states. Their education typically includes an associate degree. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree.
Respiratory Therapists provide patient care by assessing and evaluating respiratory function, respiratory diseases and conditions, administering prescribed medications, respiratory treatments, and respiratory therapies. This is done through performing breathing exercises, administering oxygen and other medical equipment, and providing respiratory care such as continuous positive airway pressure and noninvasive ventilation.
Respiratory Therapists are trained to provide care for patients with lung or airway problems. The work environment includes private offices in hospitals and nursing homes, outpatient clinics, public health programs and schools, military hospitals, and home-based care. Respiratory Therapists can work in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities such as nursing homes. They may also be employed by public health agencies or private medical facilities. Some Respiratory Therapists work as independent contractors.
About the Work
Respiratory Therapists provide patient care and services in a variety of settings and patient populations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), respiratory therapists usually work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Healthcare providers may employ respiratory therapists to perform specialized duties that are not part of their regular job duties. These include providing care in emergency rooms, intensive care units, operating rooms, clinics, and nursing homes. A respiratory therapist’s duties vary depending on the setting, patient population, and type of treatment provided. They assess, evaluate, and diagnose patients with respiratory problems by using medical equipment and techniques. They also administer prescribed medications and therapies and provide respiratory care such as continuous positive airway pressure and noninvasive ventilation.
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