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.
Respiratory Therapy Supervisors oversee respiratory care in healthcare facilities. They supervise oxygen administration, aerosol treatments, and chest physiotherapy, monitor patients' status, assist with patient mobility, and ensure appropriate equipment maintenance.
Common titles for these positions include Respiratory Therapy Supervisor, Lead Respiratory Therapist, and Senior Respiratory Therapist.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Respiratory Therapist
- Specialty: Certified Respiratory Therapist - Sleep Disorders
- Specialty: Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Specialist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
Respiratory Therapy Supervisors oversee respiratory care in healthcare facilities. They supervise oxygen administration, aerosol treatments, and chest physiotherapy, monitor patients' status, assist with patient mobility, and ensure appropriate equipment maintenance.
Common titles for these positions include Respiratory Therapy Supervisor, Lead Respiratory Therapist, and Senior Respiratory Therapist.
Certifications*
- Core: Certified Respiratory Therapist
- Specialty: Certified Respiratory Therapist - Sleep Disorders
- Specialty: Neonatal/Pediatric Respiratory Care Specialist
*Certifications vary depending on chosen specialty.
