Respiratory therapists are vital in healthcare teams to ensure patients' optimal respiratory health. They assess lung function, administer treatments like oxygen therapy, and educate patients. Collaborating closely with physicians, they contribute to effective patient management and treatment strategies.
This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to promoting wellness. Opportunities for career advancement include specialization in neonatal care or pulmonary rehabilitation.
Explore the pathways below to learn more.
Pathways refer to the various job options available within a career that share common skills, knowledge, and interests. Respiratory Therapy has several pathways: clinical practice, specialization, management/administration, education/training, research, home care/telemedicine, and industry/sales. In addition to the popular pathways below, respiratory therapy pathways include:
- Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
- Respiratory Therapy Technician
Here is a snapshot of popular Respiratory Therapy pathways in the Charlotte metro area. Click on the titles for more details.
Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) are critical in patient care within healthcare settings. They are responsible for administering respiratory treatments, monitoring patients' respiratory status, assisting with mobility, ensuring proper oxygenation, and maintaining respiratory equipment. CRTs also prioritize maintaining a clean and safe environment conducive to respiratory health.
CRTs may hold titles such as Respiratory Therapist (CRT), Respiratory Technician, or Pulmonary Function Technologist.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Respiratory Therapist
- Specialty: Certified Respiratory Therapist - Sleep Disorders
- Specialty: Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Specialist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRTs) are critical in patient care within healthcare settings. They are responsible for administering respiratory treatments, monitoring patients' respiratory status, assisting with mobility, ensuring proper oxygenation, and maintaining respiratory equipment. CRTs also prioritize maintaining a clean and safe environment conducive to respiratory health.
CRTs may hold titles such as Respiratory Therapist (CRT), Respiratory Technician, or Pulmonary Function Technologist.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Respiratory Therapist
- Specialty: Certified Respiratory Therapist - Sleep Disorders
- Specialty: Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Specialist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
