Guide to Health Careers

Respiratory Therapist

from: http://www.communityhealthcareers.com/careers_respiratory_therapist.htm

Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) work alongside physicians to diagnose and treat people with breathing disorders or respiratory diseases. They also assist in high-risk emergency situations to help people suffering from heart attacks, strokes, drownings, or shock. RRTs may work with premature infants whose lungs are not fully formed, elderly people suffering from lung disease, or a person who has chronic asthma or emphysema.

The Cool Things They Do:

Assist physicians in the diagnosis, treatment and care of patients with breathing disorders
Assist anesthesiologists in the operating room
Assist in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and support
Assist in high risk births
Maintain an open airway for trauma, intensive care, and surgery patients
Stabilize high-risk patients being moved by air or ground ambulance
Provide life support for patients who can't breathe on their own

Working Conditions:

Respiratory therapists generally work in the treatment rooms of hospitals or clinics. Most of their time is spent standing and they are often involved in emergency situations that can be stressful. They also risk exposure to disease. Respiratory therapists generally work full-time hours that include late nights, evenings and weekends.

Most Respiratory Therapists Work In:

Hospitals
Medical or health clinics
Extended-care facilities
Public health centres
Homes for a health service provider

Personal Characteristics/Skills:

A genuine interest in helping people
Good judgment
Excellent interpersonal skills
Ability to work well under stress
Problem solving abilities
Strong math and science skills
A desire and ability to stay on top of recent trends

Education and Training Required:

College Diploma or University Degree in Respiratory Therapy

Length of Study/Training : 3-4 years post-secondary

Certification (s):

National : Passing written exam with the Canadian Board for Respiratory Care (CBRC)

Ontario : Licensing by the College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario (CRTO)

Helpful High School Courses:

English
Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
Physics

Employment Prospects - GOOD

Canada’s aging population requires an ever-increasing supply of medical services and there is a growing demand for Respiratory Therapists. The expansion of respiratory services will provide many opportunities for new employees in this field.

Earnings:

Average annual income: $35,000 to $55,000.

More Information:

Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists
http://www.csrt.com

College of Respiratory Therapists of Ontario
www.crto.on.ca

Respiratory Therapy Society of Ontario
www.rtso.org

The Canadian Lung Association
http://www.lung.ca

American Association for Respiratory Care
http://www.aarc.org

Job Futures:

Medical Technologists and Technicians (Except Dental)
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/321.shtml