Respiratory Therapist
Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.
At a Glance
Respiratory Therapist earns an average of $56,160/yr. Typical education: Associate degree. Experience: 1.2–1.7 years. Top skills: Respiratory Therapy, Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification.
$56,160/yr
Associate degree
1.2–1.7 years
31
Parent Occupation (O*NET)
Respiratory Therapists
Median Wage
$80,450/yr
Growth (2024-34)
+12.1%
Education
Associate's degree
Skills & Requirements
Specialized Skills (19)
Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory Care
Pediatrics
Medical Ventilators
Geriatrics
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Circulatory System
Nebulizer
Clinical Experience
Arterial Blood Gas Analysis
Nursing
Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP/BiPAP)
Critical Care
Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
Infection Control
Oxygen Therapy
Patient Education And Counseling
Quality Improvement
Tracheotomy
Common Skills (3)
Communication
Management
Teaching
Certifications (8)
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
Neonatal Resuscitation Program Certification (NRP)
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
Respiratory Care Practitioner
Basic Cardiac Life Support
Related Specializations
Other specialized occupations in this field. Many share overlapping skills, making lateral moves more accessible.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
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