How to Become a Respiratory Therapist?
A comprehensive guide to becoming a Respiratory Therapist: education, eligibility, job roles, and career opportunities in this essential healthcare field
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Respiratory Therapist
"In every breath, they help restore, a Respiratory Therapist brings hope and vitality back to life." — Sarah Williams
A Respiratory Therapist (RT) specializes in helping patients with lung conditions and breathing problems. They assess, diagnose, and manage respiratory issues, working with specialists to create treatment plans for patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. RTs are crucial in managing cardio-pulmonary disorders, providing therapy, and teaching patients how to use their medications. Their daily tasks may include interviewing and evaluating Medicare patients and coordinating with other caregivers.
Steps to Become a Respiratory Therapist:
Step-1
A strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics during high school is essential. These subjects will help prepare you for the advanced coursework in respiratory therapy.
Step-2
Most aspiring respiratory therapists start by enrolling in an accredited respiratory therapy program. An associate degree typically takes two years and covers topics like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, along with hands-on clinical practice.
Step-3
Hands-on experience is vital for this profession. As part of your degree program, you will be required to complete clinical rotations at hospitals or clinics to gain real-world experience.
Step-4
After completing your degree, you must pass the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam, administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC), to become licensed.
Step-5
Many respiratory therapists choose to specialize in areas such as pediatric care, neonatal care, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Specialized certifications can further advance your career.
Step-6
While not mandatory, earning a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy or a related field can enhance your job prospects and prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare.
Step-7
Respiratory therapy is an evolving field. Continuing education and obtaining advanced certifications will ensure that you remain up-to-date with the latest treatments and technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.). |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | Must earn a degree in B.Sc/B.Tech or a Diploma to pursue a career as a Respiratory Therapist. This is a fundamental requirement for the profession. |
| Postgraduate Degree | An M.Sc in Life Science can be beneficial for higher degrees and enhanced learning opportunities. |
| Entrance Exams | Should obtain valid scores in entrance exams such as JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc. |
- Must possess at least 50% aggregate from a recognized institution in 12th, from any board PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.
- Should procure a valid score in entrance exams after 12th such as JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CEE, HITSEE, CET, etc.,
- One must earn a degree in B.Sc/B.Tech or a Diploma to become a Respiratory Therapist.
- An M.Sc in Life Science can also prove to be helpful while looking for a higher degree and better learning.
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Tasks to perform as a Respiratory Therapist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Respiratory Therapists must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding of respiratory systems | Knowledge of drugs used in respiratory care |
| Inhalation techniques, ventilator support | Ability to interpret results of lung tests |
| Standard procedures for treating patients | Knowledge of ethical practices in healthcare |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Problem-Solving | Communication Skills |
| Critical Thinking | Technical Skills |
| Compassion | Attention to Detail |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Respiratory Therapist.
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Job roles offered for a Respiratory Therapist:
Once qualified as a Respiratory Therapist, you can explore various career options:
Oversees nutritional services in institutions like hospitals or schools, handling budgeting, safety, and compliance, and managing food operations and staff.
Supports healthcare practitioners with administrative and clinical tasks, including front desk duties, recordkeeping, sample collection, and equipment maintenance.
Provides dietary counseling, helps clients with weight loss, improved eating habits, and stress management, and works in various settings, often with flexible hours.
Manages and improves healthcare quality, oversees clinical results, and collaborates with executives to enhance patient care and facility operations.
Analyzes market data to provide actionable financial advice, working in finance, investment, or advertising sectors, and requires strong organizational and communication skills.
Not sure where you fit in?
With countless career options, choosing the right path can be tough. Analysis and guidance sessions help clarify what to study, pursue, and achieve.
Career Opportunities for a Respiratory Therapist:
Respiratory Therapists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Mission Health | Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences | AVI Healthcare |
| Government of Jharkhand | Apollo Hospitals | NewRo Rehab Redefined |
| Covenant Health | All India Institute of Medical Sciences | Best Doctors |
| Tutor Doctor |
Colleges offering courses for Respiratory Therapist:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| JNU Delhi - Jawaharlal Nehru University | Manipal University (MAHE) - Manipal Academy of Higher Education |
| Gujarat University, Ahmedabad | NIT Rourkela - National Institute of Technology |
| Visva Bharati University - Visva-Bharati | CSJMU Kanpur - Chhatrapati Shahu ji Maharaj University |
| Presidency University, Kolkata | Bangalore University, Bangalore |
| Tezpur University, Tezpur | Amity University, Noida |
End Note
If you're ready to breathe new life into your career, becoming a respiratory therapist could be the perfect fit for you. With a growing demand for skilled professionals in this field, now is the time to take action. Connect with SetMyCareer’s experts to explore your options, learn more about available programs, and start your journey in Career counselling after graduation toward a fulfilling career in respiratory therapy.
In this Career Outline
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