Career Path

Respiratory Therapist

Overview

In this career, your responsibilities may include:

Examining patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary issues and performing diagnostic tests on them.
Helping physicians develop appropriate treatment plans.
Administering a variety of treatment protocols, from medication to physiotherapy.
Educating patients and their families on the proper way to take medications, and how to care for and use necessary equipment.

Job Titles

In your job search, you may find listings for this career under different titles. You can find some examples of these, as well as more information about this career, at Career One Stop.

Academic Requirements

Typically requires an associate degree, although some employers prefer to hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Obtaining a higher degree can make you eligible for careers with greater responsibility and higher salaries in this career pathway, if you do not already have the U.S. equivalent of a higher degree.

Certification

Certification is required in states that require it for purposes of obtaining licensure. Even in states where certification is not required, it could make employers more likely to hire you or offer you a higher salary.

You may be eligible for certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
Licensure

Licensure required in every state but Alaska, plus Puerto Rico. Licensure requirements vary by state, but generally include a requirement that candidates hold a professional certification.