How do I Choose the Best Respiratory Therapist Classes?

When choosing the best respiratory therapist classes, it is important to consider career goals, instructor qualifications, and whether hands-on experience is part of the course. Some respiratory therapy schools may have a set curriculum and specific classes that must be taken. Other programs may require certain classes, but also allow students to select some respiratory therapy classes based on individual interests.

While deciding what respiratory therapist classes to take, consider what you hope to specialize in as a therapist. Respiratory therapists work with everyone from premature babies to elderly patients with breathing problems. Therapists provide treatments such as medications, mechanical ventilation and chest physical therapy. Some therapists also earn additional certifications in specialty areas such as sleep studies, asthma education, and pulmonary function testing.

It may be helpful to take a few classes in one of the specialties listed above. Not only will it provide exposure on career options, it adds to a well-rounded respiratory therapy education. A variety of classes in specialty areas also improves marketability after graduation from respiratory therapy school.

Consider respiratory therapist classes that also lead to a specific certification. Classes are available to respiratory therapy students in pediatric advanced life support, neonatal resuscitation, and advanced cardiac life support. After completion of these individual classes, a certification is awarded. In addition to obtaining a license and getting certified or registered as a respiratory therapist, extra certifications may be required by some employers.

Be sure the respiratory therapist classes you take are part of an accredited respiratory therapy program. Outside of the United States, requirements to become a respiratory therapist vary greatly by country. In the US, most states require a license to work as a therapist. In order to qualify for a license, applicants must have a minimum of an associate's degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program. In the US, programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care.

It is also beneficial to look for classes that include a lab or clinical rotations in a hospital. Although anatomy and theory can be learned in a classroom, hands-on experience doing patient assessments and providing therapy are essential to becoming a knowledgeable therapist. Some respiratory therapy classes may include classroom work and clinical experience at a hospital as part of the class.

Before selecting respiratory therapist classes, review the credentials of the instructor. As with all professions, some teachers will be better than others. Information on an instructor’s experience, training, and degrees is often available to students through a college catalog or website. If possible, talk to other students to determine which instructors or faulty members are the best teachers.