Respiratory Therapy Jobs
Soliant provides respiratory therapists for hospitals, pulmonary function departments and sleep clinics nationwide. We match top-performing registered respiratory therapists, certified respiratory therapists and sleep technicians with great jobs around the country.
Sensitive, gentle and decisive—just some of the qualities you need to succeed in a respiratory care career. As a respiratory therapist, you work with patients who range in age from a few minutes to more than a century—and everybody in between. Every day you exhibit leadership and quick-judgment skills without losing sight of your patients’ emotional needs. It’s all in a day’s work. At Soliant, we’re proud to help respiratory therapists thrive in the best jobs in the field.
Respiratory Therapy Duties
A respiratory therapist, also known as a respiratory therapy technician, plays a critical role in the care and safety of patients with breathing or heart problems. These professionals work directly with physicians to help treat patients that have trouble breathing. Daily duties include evaluating, treating and caring for patients through compassion and individualized medical plans. The respiratory therapist will also help perform procedures that can help patients recover from cardiopulmonary disorders. A typical range of patients includes premature infants, lung cancer patients, or those who have suffered a heart attack or stroke. Respiratory therapists are responsible for monitoring breathing, performing chest physiotherapy, testing lung capacity and assisting physicians and nurses with the best course of action for the patient. A respiratory therapist must be compassionate, patient and strong-willed.
Respiratory Therapy Education Requirements
While only an associate’s degree is required by hospitals to be hired as a respiratory therapist, it is advised to pursue a higher level of learning to help better your chances in the job market. You can obtain a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physiology, biology, anatomy, or a related field. During advanced coursework, the prospective respiratory therapist will learn how to perform essential procedures such as pulmonary rehabilitation and cardiopulmonary diagnostics. Most states require the respiratory therapist to be licensed by the National Board for Respiratory Care, as well as any state-level certifications that are required. There is also the Registered Respiratory Therapist credential, which can advance the respiratory therapists’ career.
Respiratory Therapy Job Market
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary of a respiratory therapist depends on the individual’s level of experience and certification as well as the demands of the hiring facility. There is a projected job growth of 12% between now and the year 2024 for those interested in pursuing a career in respiratory therapy.