Respiratory Therapist

Salary range:

$52,973 – $70,886

Minimum training

Associate's degree; state-issued license required

Job description:

Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat and care for patients with breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. To evaluate patients, respiratory therapists conduct interviews, perform limited physical examinations and conduct diagnostic tests. They treat patients using oxygen or oxygen mixtures, chest physiotherapy and aerosol medications. Respiratory therapists provide complex therapy requiring considerable independent judgment, such as caring for patients on life support in intensive-care units of hospitals.

Work environment:

Respiratory therapists work in hospitals and may travel to patients' homes.

Training requirements:

Respiratory therapists are required to earn an associate's or bachelor's degree. They are licensed by the State of California Respiratory Care Board.

Scholarships for this job

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