The Profession
Who They Are
In this allied health specialty, respiratory therapists, also known as respiratory care practitioners, help assess cardiopulmonary systems to treat and monitor heart and lung problems.
What They Do
Respiratory therapists help assess cardiopulmonary systems to treat and monitor heart and lung problems. The care provided by respiratory therapists may include administration of oxygen, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, management of mechanical ventilators, administering medications to the lungs, monitoring cardiopulmonary systems and measuring lung function. Patients range from premature infants needing rescue breathing to seniors who require pulmonary rehabilitation to live with chronic lung disorders.
Where They Work
Employment opportunities are primarily in hospitals and medical centers, but also include clinics, rehabilitation centers and the delivery of home respiratory care.
Outlook
Respiratory care is growing much faster than other careers in the nation. In the next ten years, the number of respiratory care jobs are expected to grow by 21%. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Preparing to Apply
Individuals interested in applying to this program must complete prerequisite courses, including statistics, chemistry, biology and more. More information about prerequisite coursework can be found here. Students interested in transferring into the program must complete the online application, submit official transcripts, and submit one letter of recommendation.