Respiratory Therapists

Their patients range from premature infants whose lungs are not fully developed to people whose lungs are diseased. Respiratory therapists work alongside physicians, helping those diagnoses and treat patients. To assess patients' breathing, therapists ask them to breathe into machines that measure the size of their lungs and the amount of air in them. Variables such as sex, age, height, and weight of the patients, can help therapists diagnose whether or not patients have breathing disorders. Therapists may also take blood samples from patients to analyze the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in their blood. To do this, they take an arterial blood sample from the patient, place it in a blood gas analyzer, and relay the results to a doctor.

Respiratory therapists use a variety of methods to treat patients. To deliver oxygen to patients who cannot breathe on their own, they can either use oxygen masks or insert small tubes into the patients' noses. They also use chest physiotherapy and aerosol medications to treat patients. Therapists sometimes have to connect patients to ventilators that send pressurized air into their lungs. To connect a patient to a ventilator, a tube is inserted down the patient's windpipe so that oxygen can be sent directly into the lungs. Other responsibilities include monitoring respiratory equipment, observing and assessing patients' conditions, and recommending changes in treatment. Respiratory therapists record all relevant information in medical charts, and brief physicians on patients' progress. In addition, they educate patients on how to deal with their respiratory problems at home.

Making sure that respiratory patients understand their illnesses and know how to deal with them on a day-to-day basis is important. It is also necessary to relieve any fears that patients might have. Respiratory therapists may also instruct family and friends of patients on how to deal with emergencies or use breathing equipment at home.

As with most health care professions, formal training is required to enter this field. The first step is to earn a high school diploma. While in high school you should take courses in math, chemistry, biology, physics, and health. Next, you will need to complete an accredited program in respiratory therapy. These programs are offered by colleges and vocational schools across the country, and range in length from 2 to 4 years. An associate degree is awarded for the 2-year programs and a bachelor's degree is awarded to those completing a 4-year program. Once you have obtained an associate degree and become a CRT, you can take two additional examinations that will allow you to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Respiratory therapists who work in intensive care units or in supervisory positions are usually required to be RRTs.

Respiratory therapists require patience and compassion. It's also important to be in good physical shape.

To learn more about careers in Respiratory Therapy, visit the Respiratory Therapy Jobs page for more information and how to apply for a job.

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