Respiratory therapy helps patients prevent and manage breathing issues, and the demand for these therapists is growing. With an aging population, an increased focus on respiratory care, and a growing understanding of lung health, the demand for respiratory therapists is expected to continue to rise.
Respiratory therapists generally work under the direction of doctors and treat a wide range of patient populations. They work with underdeveloped lungs or with people whose breathing or lungs are affected by disease or illness. If ventilators, oxygen, or drugs to the lungs are involved, so is a respiratory therapist.
The career outlook for respiratory therapists is promising. The overall hiring demand for this specialty is expected to grow by 13 percent from 2023 to 2033. This post provides an overview of what a respiratory therapist does, the steps to become a CRT or RRT, the benefits of this career choice, top locations for travel positions, and more.
Understanding the Role of Respiratory Therapists
When a patient experiences difficulty breathing, a respiratory therapist becomes involved in their treatment. This breathing impairment might be a chronic condition or the direct result of an emergency or disease.
Job Responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist
A respiratory therapist often has a variable routine and a wide array of patient populations and responsibilities. They work directly with patients and determine the most effective therapy type or treatment plan for each patient’s specific breathing condition. Respiratory therapists will administer diagnostic tests, write treatment plans, oversee therapy, and collaborate with patients and their families to improve respiratory health. Other day-to-day duties might include conducting chest exams, adjusting therapy methods, drawing blood, measuring vital signs, analyzing oxygen levels, or managing ventilators.
Common Conditions Treated by a Respiratory Therapist
Many chronic conditions, sicknesses, or emergencies may require respiratory therapy. Below are some of those conditions and situations that are treated with respiratory treatment.
Chronic Conditions:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
- Sleep apnea
- Pulmonary hypertension
Acute Conditions and Emergencies:
- Pneumonia
- Trauma
- Cardiac arrest
- Premature lung development in infants
- Respiratory infections
Beyond these conditions, respiratory therapists are often involved in post-operative care or unique situations, such as pulmonary rehabilitation or smoking cessation efforts.
Work Settings and Specializations for Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists work in many types of facilities. They are most commonly found working with patients in these areas:
- Hospitals (about 75% of respiratory therapists work in this setting)
- Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation centers
- Home health agencies
- Cariopulmonary diagnostic labs
- Skilled nursing facilities
Beyond general respiratory therapy, there is an opportunity to specialize within the field and work with a specific patient population. Some of these specialization opportunities include:
- Pediatric or neonatal
- Geriatric
- Home care
- Pulmonary diagnostics
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Critical care
These settings can involve full work weeks, often with shift work and weekend/holiday scheduling. Note: Respiratory therapists spend most of their shift on their feet — this is a fast-paced field with high-demand situations.
The Career Path of Respiratory Therapists
The path to respiratory therapy takes a goal-oriented and detail-minded person. The career will present high-pressure situations and a strong need for problem-solving skills, so it’s essential to evaluate personal abilities to work in that type of environment.
If that feels like a good fit, then respiratory therapy is a field with advancement options and strong hiring opportunities. Here’s what the path looks like to become a respiratory therapist:
Earn an Undergraduate Degree
The first educational step toward a career in respiratory therapy is to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program. While associate degrees are faster to earn, the positions available may be more limited and offer lower salaries. Bachelor’s degree programs typically take four years, but this degree sets therapists up for higher earning potential.
Complete Certification Exams
Respiratory therapists must pass the certified respiratory therapist (CRT) exam, which is required by all states for licensure, or become a registered respiratory therapist (RRT) credential, which is known as the established “standard of excellence” in respiratory therapy.
Obtain Licensure
Applying for and obtaining state licensure is the next step to practice as a respiratory therapist. The steps for this can vary based on state, so be sure to check state-specific requirements.
Optional: Specialize or Continue Education
Specialty credentials can be earned through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Some of these specialties include pediatric or neonatal care, geriatric care, sleep disorder testing, and more. Different advanced certifications are also an appealing aspect of a respiratory therapy career. Receiving an RRT credential signifies a higher level of expertise and typically leads to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities. Other advanced certificates include becoming an Adult Critical Care Specialty (ACCS) or an Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT).
Top Reasons to Become a Respiratory Therapist
High Demand
The job growth for respiratory therapists is steadily increasing at a higher rate than the average occupation. This demand is expected to continue growing due to factors such as an aging population, advancements in treatment, and general staffing shortages in healthcare.
Compensation
The annual compensation of respiratory therapists varies depending on location, facility, and population; however, the average annual base salary as of 2024 is $80,660, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That salary potential can grow based on education and specialization, or through travel opportunities in areas with a high demand for respiratory therapists. There are also higher salaries and advancement opportunities available to registered respiratory therapists (RRTs), a credential that establishes expertise within the field.
Top-Paying Respiratory Therapy Roles
Some specialized roles in respiratory therapy offer a higher earning potential than general positions. The highest paid specialties among respiratory therapists include:
- Neonatal and pediatric care
- Trauma and emergency care
- Sleep studies
- ECMO management
Top-Paying Travel Therapy Locations
Working as a travel respiratory therapist offers high earning potential and compensation bonuses. And the most competitive states overall for respiratory therapy positions are:
- District of Columbia
- California
- New York
- New Jersey
- Alaska
Is There a Licensure Compact for Respiratory Therapists?
An upcoming Respiratory Care Interstate Compact (RCIC), similar to the Nurse Licensure Compact, will enable respiratory therapists to practice efficiently across state lines and work in travel positions without the hassle of applying for multiple state credentials and licensure. This compact is relatively new, which means states are in the stages of enacting legislation to be involved in the future when the compact is available. When fully operationalized, this compact will enhance travel and telehealth opportunities, as well as simplify relocation for respiratory therapists.
Job Opportunities in Respiratory Therapy
Are you looking for a new travel or local opportunity as a respiratory therapist? Supplemental Health Care connects caring providers with job opportunities that fit their career goals and plans. Our recruiting team can help you find your next role or connect you with the next steps to grow your respiratory therapy career in the right direction. Reach out today to learn more!
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