The medical field offers many job types that require an education obtained through a technical college. Respiratory therapists start their career by attending a technical college. The areas of study for this career includes biology, chemistry, mathematics, and pharmacology. Students will also learn about diagnostic procedures and patient assessment. Respiratory therapists must be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. After obtaining an associates degree in the field, the student must become licensed to practice.
The work environment for this career will take place in a hospital, nursing home, or home health care setting. Working at hospital or nursing home may require a schedule that includes nights and weekends. Home health care will require the same type of hours and will include traveling to different locations. Treatment is determined through the process of interviewing, examination, and conducting diagnostic tests. Therapists treat their patients with oxygen, oxygen mixtures, and aerosol medications. Work in the home health care setting will include inspection of the equipment being used and training family members regarding the use of medicines and equipment.
Due to the continued growth of the middle aged and elderly population, there will be an increased demand for licensed respiratory therapists. Job opportunities will exist in all areas that provide respiratory care services. Employment opportunities are expected to grow 21% by 2018. The median annual salary for a respiratory therapist is $52,000.00.
A career in respiratory therapy will ensure stable employment at a good salary. The education required can be obtained through a technical college, which limit’s the financial burden that schooling can present. Pursuing a career in respiratory therapy involve a short time commitment that will allow you to enter the work force early in life and begin a career path.