There are several types of respiratory therapists that all require different education levels, and a higher education is required to become a registered respiratory therapist. Students will need to excel in science and math in order to prepare for the advanced coursework needed to become a registered respiratory therapist. Most locations may have different requirements, and you should research the guidelines of the area that you intend on working in. This should be done early in your education to ensure that you are able to fulfill all necessary requirements. Many different institutions, including online institutions, offer these types of programs, and you should make sure it is an accredited school.
Although an associate's degree is generally required to acquire an entry level position, you will have to work towards at least a bachelor's degree. Some students choose to continue their education by achieving a master's degree, which may increase career options and salary rates. The minimum of a bachelor's degree is needed to become a registered respiratory therapist, and you should seek schools that offer a bachelor's in health sciences with a strong emphasis on respiratory therapy. These programs will require general coursework to be completed as prerequisites to advanced health courses. Some of the courses could include cardiopulmonary diagnostics, respiratory therapeutics, pulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory care, and advanced patient assessment.
Some countries may require you to be certified before you become a registered respiratory therapist, which usually involves additional testing and experience. After graduating, you should research exam information for certification and take all necessary exams. Most areas require two additional examinations to be successfully completed to become a registered respiratory therapist. This type of certification verifies that you are competent in all required areas needed to practice respiratory therapy. There is a significant difference in pay and job options, including being able to work as a supervisor and in intensive care facilities.
Education is the key factor to become a registered respiratory therapist, but you must also be able to communicate with patients, write technical reports, and occasionally work in a stressful environment. This job requires you to work with patients who have a variety of breathing problems, which may make the job stressful at times. Patience and understanding are also needed to perform this job because you may have to try a variety of methods depending on the medical situation. Most programs will prepare you for a variety of medical circumstances ranging from mild breathing problems to emergencies.
