Becoming a respiratory therapist is a rewarding and challenging career, and it typically takes two to four years to gain the qualifications. A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders.
The first step to becoming a respiratory therapist is to gain a two-year associate’s degree in respiratory care from an accredited college or university. Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require that you complete additional pre-requisite courses. Courses usually include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and principles of respiratory care. After graduating from the program, you must pass the National Board of Respiratory Care’s certifying exam to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).
For those looking to advance their careers, a four-year bachelor’s or master’s degree in respiratory therapy is also available. This degree often focuses on critical care, neonatal care, and pulmonary function testing. The bachelor’s degree may also include additional courses such as respiratory therapy research, business management, and healthcare technology. After completing the program, you must again pass the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) certifying exam to become an Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT).
In addition to the educational requirements, you must also pass a criminal background check and possess a valid driver’s license. You may also need to be certified in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Once you have met the educational and certification requirements, it typically takes one to two years to gain the necessary experience to be a successful respiratory therapist. During this time, you will work with patients in various settings such as hospitals, home care, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. You’ll learn how to assess and manage respiratory diseases and disorders, administer medications, and educate patients and families about their condition.
Becoming a respiratory therapist takes dedication, commitment, and the willingness to learn. However, once you have gained the necessary qualifications, you will have the opportunity to help individuals breathe easier and improve their quality of life.
