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How much money does a respiratory therapist make? What are the education requirements?
Respiratory therapists provide specialized care for patients who have trouble breathing. Their patients often suffer from serious respiratory disease, such as asthma or emphysema. Their patients range from premature infants with lung problems to elderly patients who have diseased lungs. Respiratory therapists are also called on to provide care during emergency situations, such as in a code blue.
Respiratory therapists operate various machines and use various procedures to enable their patients to breathe better. Here are some of the duties or tasks that a respiratory therapist will perform on the job:
Interview and examine patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders
Consult with physicians to develop patient treatment plans
Perform diagnostic tests such as measuring lung capacity by having patients breathe into an instrument that measures the volume and flow of oxygen.
Take blood samples and use a blood gas analyzer to test oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
Respond to code blue and other emergency situations
Education Requirements for Respiratory Therapy
Respiratory therapists need at least an associate’s degree, which can take approximately two years to complete. Some employers may prefer applicants who have a bachelor’s degree, but this can vary depending on the employer. Many colleges and universities, vocational-technical institutes, and the Armed Forces offer education and training programs. Most programs award an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Respiratory Therapist Salary Overview
As of 2014, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, respiratory therapists earned an average hourly wage of $28.12, and an annual salary of $58,490.
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