Registered Respiratory Therapist Career Guide

Looking for a different career guide?

Overview

A Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) is a vital member of the healthcare team, specializing in the treatment and care of patients with respiratory issues. They work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, who suffer from conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia. RRTs play a crucial role in assessing patients,

Education

To become a Registered Respiratory Therapist, one must complete an accredited respiratory therapy program, which typically results in an associate's degree. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools and universities. Following graduation, aspiring RRTs must pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exams to become certified. Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) certification is one of

A stethoscope held in one hand

Related certifications

In addition to educational requirements, RRTs must possess certain qualities and skills to excel in their profession. These include strong critical thinking abilities, excellent communication skills and a genuine desire to help patients improve their respiratory health. Some employers may also prefer candidates with prior experience in respiratory care, which can be gained through internships or clinical rotations during the

Skills

Staff and Travel Registered Respiratory Therapists must be well-versed in respiratory therapy techniques and technologies, including administering oxygen therapy, managing ventilators and performing diagnostic tests like arterial blood gases. They need to have a thorough understanding of respiratory anatomy and physiology, as well as knowledge of different respiratory medications and their effects.

Thousands of
healthcare jobs in
your pocket.

4.8

13.6k Ratings

4.4

1.5k Ratings

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of a Registered Respiratory Therapist encompass a wide range of patient care activities. They assess patients' respiratory conditions, monitor vital signs and develop treatment plans in collaboration with physicians. RRTs administer medications, therapies and oxygen to patients as needed, and they also educate patients and their families on respiratory care and disease management. In critical care settings, RRTs

Salary Insights

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.
Registered Respiratory Therapist
$1,418-2,390/week

The average salary for a Registered Respiratory Therapist is $1,899.16 per week.

Last updated on December 11, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Registered Respiratory Therapist offers several advantages. It is a rewarding career that allows professionals to make a significant difference in patients' lives, particularly those with chronic respiratory conditions. The job outlook for respiratory therapists is favorable, with increasing demand in healthcare settings. Additionally, RRTs often have the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to home

Was this page helpful?

Registered Respiratory Therapist Jobs


View job details for Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist
Travel Contract

Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • LeaderStat
  • 3x12 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,556/week

Posted 2 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist
Travel Contract

Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • ALOIS Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$3,480/week

Posted 5 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist
Travel Contract

Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • PRIDE Health
  • 5x10 hrs, Nights
  • Referral Bonus

$3,466/week

Posted 5 days ago
 Verified
View job details for Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist
Travel Contract

Travel Registered Respiratory Therapist

  • Indianapolis, IN
  • Genie Healthcare
  • 4x12 hrs, Nights

$3,454/week

Estimated pay package
Posted 1 day ago

Get alerts about new jobs

Be the first to know about new jobs for Registered Respiratory Therapists.

Some of the content on this page was enhanced using artificial intelligence.

Join over 1 million healthcare workers that are getting a head start with Vivian.

Join Vivian
A group of healthcare professionals.