Respiratory Therapist

What They Do:

Respiratory Therapists are trained and skilled to assess, diagnose, and treat patients who have difficulty breathing. They treat patients dealing with pulmonary distress due to complications from asthma, bronchitis, COPD, pneumonia, chest trauma, prematurity, lung cancer, and more. They also provide education and teaching to patients on how to administer their own treatments.

Also Known As:

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Respiratory Therapist, Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT), Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP), Respiratory Therapist (RT), Staff Respiratory Therapist, Staff Therapist

Minimum Education Requirements:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Associates Degree: 2 years
• Upon completion of schooling, must pass Certified Respiratory Therapist exam, and apply for and obtain a state license.

Career Info Sources Include:

• Career One Stop
• Bureau of Labor Statistics