TYPES OF RTs AND WHAT THEY DO
RTs collaborate with physicians and nurses and perform a variety of tasks relating to lung health.
For instance, they assist people in managing breathing issues and enhancing their quality of life. RTs also develop long-term care plans and give individuals and their families instruction, training, and information.
There are different types of RTs. Some of them are:
- Surface and Air transport therapists: Treatment is given to patients while they are being transported in an emergency to critical care facilities by surface and air transport RTs. Helicopters, airborne medical vehicles, and land ambulances are all forms of transportation that RTs work in.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation therapists: RTs for pulmonary rehabilitation may work in pulmonary rehabilitation facilities or hospitals. They treat chronic lung diseases such pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and asthma. They offer information, therapy, and breathing exercises to help people breathe more comfortably and easily.
- Polysomnography therapists: In sleep labs, polysomnography RTs are frequently employed. They typically work at night, which is also when they carry out sleep research. Additionally, they study about sleep disorders, use polysomnographic equipment, and treat lung ailments.
- Neonatal pediatric and pediatric therapists: Pediatric RTs look after children and toddlers, while neonatal-pediatric RTs give care in children’s hospitals and neonatal pediatric wards of hospitals.
HOW DO YOU BECOME AN RT?
What training do RTs have?
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: In order to proceed with further education and training in respiratory therapy, it is normally necessary to have graduated from high school or to have successfully completed a GED program.
- Get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree: The majority of respiratory therapists hold an associate’s degree, which normally requires two years to finish. However, certain colleges and institutions provide respiratory therapy bachelor’s degree programs, which typically last four years to complete. Select a program that has received accreditation from the CoARC (Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care).
- Finish the respiratory therapy course: Enroll in a program that blends classroom education with hands-on experience in respiratory therapy. Anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, therapeutic methods, and respiratory care concepts should all be included in the program.
- Receive a license: To work as a respiratory therapist, you must receive a license after completing an accredited respiratory therapy program. The National Board for Respiratory Care’s (NBRC) Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) test is normally required for licensure, while state requirements vary.
- Optional certification: Although not necessarily necessary, certification can improve career advancement and job opportunities. The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials are two of the certifications provided by the NBRC. You must fulfill educational requirements and successfully complete the associated tests in order to earn these certificates.
It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary by state, so it’s advisable to research and consult the licensing board or professional organizations in your state for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
