You NEED TO KNOW THIS BEFORE you're a RESPIRATORY THERAPIST | MY PATH TO PA - Sam Kelly

I thought it would be great to share my insight on thing you need to know before you become a respiratory therapist! Are you in RT school? Thinking about becoming a registered respiratory therapist or certified respiratory therapist? these are thing you need to know before you're a respiratory therapist! These are all things i wish i knew before i was an RT and would not have been a make it or break it thing to decider to be RT but rather just more informational going into the profession:)
For more RT content check out my friend Austin Marks here is his channel: / @austinmarks
Business Inquiries? Questions? Contact me via email at [e-mail] OR via Instagram DM
Instagram - @my.path.to.pa www.instagram....
Website - My Path to PA mypathtopa.com
Interested in a My Path to PA Mentorship Program or Editing Service? Check it out here right now! mypathtopa.com...
DISCOUNTS:
My PA Box 15% OFF yearly subscription
Use code - PATH2PA at checkout
mypabox.com
The PA Platform 10% OFF ALL SERVICES
Use code: PATH2PA @ checkout
www.thepaplatf...
My PA Resource 10% OFF ALL SERVICES
Use code: PATH2PA @ checkout
www.myparesour...
PA School Prep $35 OFF cost of class
Use code: PATH2PA @ checkout
www.paschoolpr...
AFFILIATED PRODUCTS:
Medelita Scrubs
Use the following link to shop- www.medelita.c...
DISCLAIMER I do receive a small commission based off the the discount code used above when you purchase a product or when you use the affiliated product link to shop. I only recommend products I have tested out myself and recommend 100%.

[@SamKellyPA]

Sharing all the things I wish I knew before I became an RT! What do you think?! If you’re an RT student did you know all this stuff? If you’re an RT do you agree?!

[@chocolate5634]

This my first year and I’m nervous I start this month the 25th I heard it’s really stressful and hard 😔

[@Muneebkhan_Ai]

Can i learn from you personally

[@Muneebkhan_Ai]

I have alot of trouble i want to fix it help me

[@Muneebkhan_Ai]

@Richard Long as from your great openion i tried alot but i did not find someone who can help me so i am trying to learn this technical problem as such here i did not find well experience person

[@Muneebkhan_Ai]

@Richard Long yes offcourse my English is not good and here we don't have any RRT problem i am graduated from bs hons emergency care technology

[@bobnicholas5994]

Been an Respiratory Care Practitioner in Indiana for 27 years. I keep my explanation simple. When someone is dying or can't breath they call me to save their life... I have been fortunate because we have protocols and I can access patients and write orders for their treatments. You should shadow some respiratory therapist or whatever they are called in your state. It takes a certain personality to do this job. You will see people die. You will be stressed and sectioning and smelling things you are not supposed to smell. For the most part there is not much advancement. You need to really like it. I will act grumpy but I still like what I do. Don't expect a lot of thank yous. Along the way you will have great experiences with other health care professionals and patients. PTSD is something to deal with especially in peds and nicu...

[@ruunmuna6298]

Thank you for this

[@amarisconnor8928]

Thank you for your true honesty

[@honeyyork1337]

Exactly! Upward mobility is very difficult. Nurses will be hired as social workers, analysts, quality control and make their way in to administration. I only know one RRT that became a materials management supervisor. Respiratory managers are one of the few required to cover open shifts and sick calls in many hospitals.

[@religion-free]

smelling like what ?!

[@BJSal916]

​@@religion-freesmelling every thing that enters and exits a human body and medications.

[@mrfeathers3938]

You will NOT need a Bachelors degree for RT anytime soon. There are RTs who have been working for 36 years and don’t even have a commenter degree at all, and those people are way more likely to get a job over any bachelors degree RT new grad. I think this girl is just a little tilted that she went to school for 6 years and makes the exact same salary as someone who went to school for 18 months. All the other info is correct, though.

[@tommydub7785]

Yeah. That’s exactly what it is

[@nikkisanders8358]

How on the planet do you go to school for 18 months and not get a bachelor's or an associates in respiratory therapy and get a job? Every job application I've seen for respiratory therapist says that a bachelor's degree is required.

[@sd8150]

Exactly

[@Thegoat90210]

@@nikkisanders8358 what? Are there no associate degree programs where you are? Literally majority of RT programs are associate degrees.

[@nikkisanders8358]

@@Thegoat90210 No here. Just bachelors degree

[@manxkin]

I worked as a Respiratory Therapist for 37 years prior to retiring. CRT, RRT, RCP. RT's have my utmost respect. We are often the unsung heros.

[@SamKellyPA]

I totally agree!!

[@JonBrown-po7he]

Well, I can agree, RT(ghost busters/hated red head step-child) were appreciated when the R.N.s wanted us to suction a patient, yet never mind it's a SHARED RESPONSIBILITY. Had one RN say, "I'm too busy to suction, you RT should do it for us nurses. That condescending attitude was common. Respiratory therapist are welcome to perform proceedures BENEATH that of RNs. Don't study to be a SECOND CLASS citizen of the medical field.

[@manxkin]

@@JonBrown-po7he Yep! And when one of their patients was crashing the first thing they did was call RT STAT.

[@JonBrown-po7he]

@@manxkin Vast majority of RN's were smug, condescending and slothful. Worse yet, my lazy supervisor eagerly consumes nursing's fecal matter, despite reality. Anything to assure he quietly eases into retirement, screw any proper advocations. In my OPINION, a spherical asshole: regardless the perspective, he remains an asshole.

[@darlene971]

@@JonBrown-po7he in those cases i would of wrote that nurse up. They delayed airway care for a pt.

[@lindsayhengehold5341]

My mom was a Registered Respiratory Therapist for many years & this vocation is so integral for the medical industry.

[@leahlevite1245]

hey can you ask her if she had to get fingerprinted for her license?

[@coffeefirst9647]

@@leahlevite1245 I had to get fingerprinted for my Texas license.

[@leahlevite1245]

@@coffeefirst9647 thanks for replying

[@200x-v4k]

Exactly

[@biebslovr667]

Just finished my 1st semester this week at an accredited Community college, 4 more semesters left!

[@SamKellyPA]

That’s amazing, congrats! Keep up the hard work🤗

[@hajarennamli5250]

It was was hard to get accepted on community college? Did I need to be a CNA before ?? How I can improve my chances to get accepted

[@aznisles]

@@hajarennamli5250 Community colleges accept anyone with a GED or high school diploma, so no, getting accepted into one is not hard. Getting accepted into a health professions program will require some work, however. Such programs in community colleges often have limited capacity. For respiratory therapy, my school is limited to 40 new students every year and only the candidates with the highest combination of GPA and HESI A2 scores are admitted. Students with good GPAs and a high number of completed credits also have preferential consideration (e.g. a student with a 3.5 GPA and 12 completed credits is a more likely candidate than a student with a 4.0 GPA and 6 completed credits). I'm also pretty sure many schools require prereqs before entering such programs; you're school will likely do so, so aim for A's and B's. To increase your credits, take an extra course or two, whether a gen ed or free elective, and not just the prereqs. If you're required to do extra steps like signing up for a background check, do it asap; doing things right away will show admissions your eagerness and ability to follow directions. If you're required to take an entrance exam, study a month in advance; buy a study guide and find practice tests online to increase your chances of earning a high score. There might also be an interview process, so Google common interview questions. You and your cohort might also have a group meeting with a faculty member, so speak up and answer/ask questions in order to stand out. If you're attending Zoom meetings, turn on your camera, mute your mic, be alone in a quiet and clean room, sit on a chair (don't be lying down), dress decently (no pajamas, tank tops, hats, or hoodies), and make sure your real name is on display (no silly screen names). With this approach, I was able to get in, albeit for radiography and not respiratory therapy (although the admissions process is the same). In short, no, you don't need prior healthcare experience. Getting accepted into a health professions program isn't hard either if you consider yourself a decent student. And not necessarily a straight-A student; my cohort averaged 78% on the admissions exam and I know a student who got in with a 3.11 GPA. Still, academic achievement will increase your chances; you never know how strong the competition might be. Good luck!

[@jabezgwynneth3426]

Hi! May I ask what school did you pick for community college?

[@NoHypebeastZay]

We as RT’s definitely need to be paid more. At least be competitive with nursing. They should take notice especially after the pandemic how valuable we truly are.

[@MrJohnnym10]

Literally the whole reason I’m going into RT is because of the Pandemic.

[@mrsjrenae4738]

In your area, what do they start at versus nurses?

[@NoHypebeastZay]

@@mrsjrenae4738 depending if you work in hospitals it is generally more compared to long term care facilities. But for hospitals in my area I can say $45- $65/ hr

[@NoHypebeastZay]

@@mrsjrenae4738 nurses I think start off in the $55 + /hr

[@mrsjrenae4738]

@@NoHypebeastZay ok thank you. I'm currently on my last prerequisite class for sonography but I had my baby 8 weeks ago and she's still in the NICU and the RT's in there are so kind that it's REALLY making me consider changing from sonography to RT. Thanks for all that you do!!🎀

[@ZGG991]

Born at 25 wks our daughter had a long 3 mos. Stay in the NICU. We saw alot of people including her respiratory therapist. The ones we saw the most were one of our favorites to see. They were so sweet and you could tell they just adored our babies. It was really hard to see our daughter go through so much at such a young age and her RT definitely helped explain a lot and was very gentle with her little face. It looks like a tough job, especially dealing with babies taking her mask on and off changing between to two. With her being so little and doing it with lots of care. The NICU is a difficult place to be. I know they see a lot of good and a lot of very sad we did and weren’t caring for the others so I can imagine. We really appreciate what you all do and they care you do it with. ❤

[@melissa1118]

Thank you! I was going to go to nursing school, but the autonomy of RT really appeals to me!

[@brandonlee93]

I’m an RT and if I could do it all over again I would become a CRNA. Look into it.

[@Malficion]

I work nights as an RRT, I got bored one night and decided to explore all 26 floors of our Acute Care Floors. No one questioned or even bat an eye when I when to the VIP floor and grabbed some snacks. 😂

[@marwanabdulla3645]

I'm a registered respiratory therapist from the philippines. Our profession is very underrated

[@yayaya-ms4cw]

Hi! I'm from the Philippines too. Do you have plans on applying abroad? I'm currently enrolled in BSRT program. And despite being enrolled, I'm still unsure whether I made the right choice or not because I sometimes think about the nursing program. Is BSRT worth it? Is your salary high? Can you provide to your family from your salary?

[@marwanabdulla3645]

Keep it up po

[@cynthiamorgan4184]

The CSE exam is very difficult to pass, I can't believe i failed after studying with so many materials😞

[@yulianagonzalez8897]

Sometimes it doesn't matter how hard you study you also need to pray to God for success

[@ChristinaCornwall]

@ very correct

[@ChristinaCornwall]

I have a cousin who never studied much, we studied together but she gives most of her time to her phone than her studies after writing the CSE exam last month she passed and i failed😢, i asked her how she did it, just found out she got help from Mr Richard

[@Ptcedatabasedepartment]

Please does anyone know who this Mr Richard is? I really need to speak with him I'm frustrated 🥺

[@MichaelAustin-mn4yd]

Wow so sorry you failed, i have heard so much about Richard but I don't actually have his info

[@violetmonroe649]

Just got into a respiratory therapy program and starting this August. I'm definitely taking notes 📝😌

[@marydebord6515]

I just got into the program for august too!

[@wiggity1291]

Me too!

[@aleishameier7606]

Me too!

[@jabezgwynneth3426]

Hi!! May I ask how you did that??

[@martikahernandez4065]

I start January 2022. I’m super excited!!! I currently work at the hospital and I’m going to start RT tech.

[@beatnikmumrik]

I'm going for an AAS in Respiratory Therapy. I'm coming from a fine arts background, but I feel as if helping people have a better quality of life will be loads more rewarding.

[@JonBrown-po7he]

I came from an arts background, yet decided to become an R.T. My choice yielded a much higher income, while being a soul sapping misery, every darn day I worked! Was it worth it? Yes, unfortunately, bills are paid with money, not passion.

[@beatnikmumrik]

@@JonBrown-po7he What are your work schedules like, if you don't mind me asking? Also, I'd like to know how it's soul-sapping for future reference

[@JonBrown-po7he]

@@beatnikmumrik Twelve hour shifts are the 'norm' in So Cal. Starting at 6:30 - 7:00 PM or AM. New R.T.s nearly always spend 3+ years on nights, lack of seniority. Keep your artistic thoughts, that don't easily fit in middle America, that'll slow your progression towards raises, day-shift hours and general esteem of your colleagues. And, here's where the soul crushing occurs, keeping it not a bit edgy, no flare; polite, opinionless and deferential, to authority, always. Held a 3.9 in college, yet if an R.T. disagreed with an R.N., I and others were warned of cut hours and, even, termination. Respiratory departments are, in general, headed by individuals highly prone to fearful compliance. Further, don't rock the baot till I retire, supervisors.

[@beatnikmumrik]

@@JonBrown-po7he Sound like you simply work in a hellhole, hope you find the better work environment you deserve that suits your skill and is grateful for your input.

[@tommydub7785]

@@JonBrown-po7he Misery needs company. You need a life, man. You spam every video on KZbin saying the same thing. You are just a bitter person. For it to be such a bad field, you sure stayed in it a long time. You were most likely fired and now you’re mad. Go away troll

[@Jessica-dx7gz]

My AAS in Respiratory Care program required about 1.5-2 years of general courses that they recommended you take before you apply to the program for two reasons: 1) having these courses completed gave you additional points in the competitive scoring process for admission to the program, and 2) completing these courses during the program would put you well over full-time and be difficult to manage, especially if you have other obligations. They also strongly suggested students not work during the program even if you had already completed your general ed courses. Your Bachelors degree program sounds pretty similar to what I did but with better results. Nice planning.

[@jakesmith789]

I’m actually in the process of doing what you are doing lol... I have a couple of months left of RT school. Studying for my boards right now and then finishing up my bachelors degree. My goal is to get my ACCS done as well before applying for PA school. I’ve heard that doing RT before PA school actually benefited them a lot because of our knowledge of critical care situations.

[@RayDawg007]

What’s your current status now that you completed your degree?

[@jessiegavin235]

I’ve been an RT for 6 years now. I see this soooo much! I’ve also been told that CRT is becoming obsolete. Many hospitals only want you to have your RRt credentials.

[@SamKellyPA]

Glad you agree🤗 and yes that is what I’ve been hearing as well, people def prefer the RRT I think and I heard that the profession will require all bachelors soon-ish

[@jessiegavin235]

Sam Kelly that’s what I’ve heard too.

[@unslientminority1063]

I ve been around since the times we were called CRTT's.

[@keiraportillo5073]

@@SamKellyPA to become an RRT do you need a bachelor’s degree?

[@darlene971]

@@keiraportillo5073 no you dont. You just need to pass an additional state exams.

[@jorgegonzalez5249]

Thanks for sharing! Just got accepted to RT school starting in August. Familiar RT duties, currently work in ICU unit. Can’t wait learn much starting school!

[@choose2bekindd]

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” ‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3:9‬ ‭NIV‬ ROMANS 10:9-11 “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame” Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19:10‬ ‭ God wants us to believe in His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, who died for our sins :D When we truly believe in our hearts that Jesus is the Son of God, who died for our sins so we could have eternal life with God, we are saved from the eternal fire and have eternal life in Christ Jesus!! 💖 May God bless y’all!!

[@ICgay4]

Guapo, thats so awesome! I am Latino too and been a social worker, thinking of making the career shift. What made you apply, how was the schooling and process? How's the program and hope you're kicking ass.😊

[@rigelmoon9030]

We are a medium size community hospital. I was the first RT to be trained in aline insertions. Did my medical director train me how to do it? Hell no. He wouldn't take the responsibility. So, I had my close allies in anaesthesiology do it. Next, I wrote a policy/procedure for it all. Then, I approached my med.dir (Pulmonologist) and told him that anaesthesiology was discussing letting us insert all their a-lines which put a plug up his ass. So, he said that he would sign me off after he observed me inserting 5 successful catheters. Now, let me tell you that anaeth were masters at a-lines. My pulmonologist was a butcher. It was embarassing. Once he saw my technique, he made me train all other advanced therapists. I signed them off. The administration was cool about covering us for malpractice knowing that my med dir, anaesth dept, and RT director were all behind this. And, we've never looked back. I did the same with emergent intubations. As an RT, you need to have a midset that you can do anything besides following orders. We have standing protocols for everything in RT which we all were involved in writing. Therapists know when not to cross the line. Believe me. You must become the authority. Your education continues after you snag a career in hospital and lasts til the day you retire. You must earn the respect of everyone in your hospital, community, and all health care professions. Respect is not given: it is earned.

[@MrJohnnym10]

“You learn as you do” Exactly, as any level of healthcare worker, you have to have confidence yet importantly, Humility. Every level, regardless of years of experience, are learning as they do. We are all learning & evolving to provide the best care for our patients.

[@unslientminority1063]

I m not aware of any hospitals requiring a bachelor's degree to get a job. Its just something I have yet to come across unless you plan on being a manager.

[@praetorianstride5948]

Thank you for your advice! I am going to continue to see if this is a fit for me. I am hopelessly empathetic for humanity, and believe that the breath is life. I currently do concrete work because it pays well and because of the strength associated with working 12 hour days, but can’t see it being forever. So I will study. Already have most of my Gen Ed’s out of the way, so I need to focus on my weaknesses. I appreciate the words!

[@club1fan552]

Everything you described nurses do in my area. The exceptions being intubation and the insertions of arterial lines, but as you said RT's sometimes don't even do these. RT's are also sometimes run off their feet with phone calls as to why they haven't given so and so's nebulizer. Nurses also do care for the patients on ECMO without a perfusionist and all they do is a 2 day course.

[@rayerussell7661]

I’m have bachelors degree in speech and hearing sciences and working in retail but I just registered for spring classes for respiratory therapy associate degree I’m excited. I just subscribed to your channel wish me luck.

[@SamKellyPA]

That’s amazing!!! I wish you the best of luck🤗

[@tiadelone1385]

I have a bs too.. I’m thinking about doing the program.. my son is 25wkr and he still has a trach .. I’m inspired to go but unsure.. how is it going..?

[@zeexoxo4583]

I have my bachelors in Health. Now, I’m applying for RT (associates) 🥰

[@zeexoxo4583]

@@hannahmaelluvido7563 hey, I don’t know anyone 😩

[@sophiarosep9]

Great video! I'm going into my last semester of RT school and it's really reassuring to hear that it's okay not to feel like I'm 100% ready to get out into the field. I know that I'll constantly be learning as I go but I so desperately want to feel really confident when graduation rolls around. Not to mention the stress of passing the NBRC!

[@SamKellyPA]

Thanks!! And yeah there is no way to know everything bc the best way to learn is clinically and figuring stuff out my experience and asking coworkers questions, but also have a good amount of confidence in yourself that your knowledge from school will support your decision making! If you graduate and pass your boards then you know plenty to take care of a patient:) good luck with boards!!

[@SherylDagaas]

Do you really need to take a licensure examination before getting an actual job?

[@mattiestewart8371]

I got my degree in PR and I don’t see doing it for the rest of my life. Applying to the RT program this semester! Wish me luck!

[@marymargonzalez5490]

What’s pr

[@lizalaartistka]

@@marymargonzalez5490 public relations I think

[@ilianarodriguez5673]

Lol “OH so you’re like a nurse” 🤣 thanks for all the info, especially while you’re in school

[@SamKellyPA]

Classic line I’ve heard a million time lol. And thank you!!!

[@ellimorley1593]

1st semester of RT school! Love it but so hard! I am so excited and nervous for clinical!

[@sarahtrue1796]

could you explain more in depth some difficulty you’re facing?! i’m nervous as hell to start

[@ellimorley1593]

@@sarahtrue1796 My first semester was hard because it was all so new. Later on we built upon that, but the fine details of everything is still hard Also trying to balance work, school, clinicals, and exercise is hard too.

[@chels2019]

I get asked all time if I’m a nurse or doctor as a phlebotomist.

[@SamKellyPA]

I swear people only think there’s 2 medical professions 😂

[@gracej6021]

Hey! Fellow phleb here! Me too! Or they assume we're like med students going onward and don't know what to say when we're not. Lots of medical professionals education missing! :/

[@swarmy9459]

2 semesters left thank you for this video

[@beastvin]

I’m in my first semester now, loved this. Good luck in PA school

[@SamKellyPA]

Thank you so much! And hope pa school is going well for you🤗

[@cherylrajewski3390]

This was a great upbeat video that I really appreciated you posting. Like another viewer I am a retired dental hygienist and at midlife looking to get back into a health care field. I really miss helping others and being part of a team. I had to laugh about how others do not understand what a respiratory therapist does and I felt that same way with dental hygiene. I got a BS degree in dental Hygiene however people thought I was a dental assistant and I found other people in the medical field had no clue about how much education we had. We had to learn pathology in order to understand oral manifestations of systemic diseases and pharmacology to understand contraindications for treatment. Many of my classes were with dental students and I received better grades than a lot of them. I always wanted to go back to dental school but it never worked out for me. I tried to apply to PA masters program but most schools turned down my 3000+ hours of hands on patient care as dental and "not medical", again ignorance as to how much dental hygienist know from school and continued education classes. So now I am looking at a AA degree at a local community college in respiratory therapy. Hospitals are very different from dental offices where music and happy pictures line the wall, however I feel I have maturity now to handle a more serious environment for patient care.

[@brachiosaurus6350]

Hello, I am currently between dental hygiene and respiratory therapy programs and I’m not sure which one to go into. Could you add any insight?

[@cherylrajewski3390]

@@brachiosaurus6350 With dental hygiene you are going to make more money and you won't work overnights or weekends, (however you might take on a Saturday job). As a dental hygienist you are paid per day and rarely work in one office full-time. Because of this you do not get sick days, vacation days or any kind of retirement. I am now one year into the respiratory therapy program, and I have done several shifts at the hospital. It is a completely different situation and I find the people working in respiratory therapy have much different personalities than those working at a dental office. I miss having the more intimate relationship with patients that I had as a hygienist. At the hospital your patient contact is very brief. My only caveat is that if you decide on dental hygiene you have to be very mindful of your hand, upper back and neck. It is very intense work relative to Respiratory Therapy. Also know that in RT you deal with a lot of tragedy and death.

[@socalencounter]

What will happen to all the licensed and practicing RRTs once the 2030 bachelor requirement hits? Will every RRT who doesn’t have a Bachelors degree be forced to go back to school? Will they be grandfathered in? If a working RRT earned a bachelor’s in a different field in their past education will they be required to get a second bachelor’s degree?

[@SamKellyPA]

Great question! I do not have the definite answer, but I beleive since the AARC is giving the profession until 2030 to complete their bachelors, which is a long time, I would think they'd require it to work/keep the RRT. But I am not sure, id check the AARC for updates. Also, you do not need to have a bachelors in resp care to qualify, it is a bachelors in any field

[@MegaIluvmj]

I just got accepted into the respiratory therapy program starting this fall I’m so excited 😆

[@valentinechimaobi916]

Which school do you got admitted, and please how hard is the course , I hope your grinding through it

[@yannaroberts8624]

How is it going so far?

[@andylam83]

Thank you so much.. this video helps a lot. I am planning to go to school for this

[@SamKellyPA]

Glad it helped 🤗

[@sammyj7235]

i learned something new then. i worked in the ER and i assumed the RTs were nurses but with a specialty, like a cardiac nurse.

[@pyromanaic21]

I doubt the aarc will require a bachelor's degree. Also, it's worth noting that RTs are like cardiopulmonary nurses who focus on the treatments and therapies for the heart and lungs. But RTs don't have the mobility nurses do. For RTs to get additional training for something outside bedside, they need to get a different certification or degree. I know that there is sleep study (which doesn't require a degree), PFT, pulmonary rehab, and DME. But that's it. Cath lab and ultrasound require a minimum of a certification. And I've never heard of outpatient clinics using an RT.

[@danielbedryak9555]

Finishing my 2nd quarter of 9 in my bas rt program. Love it.

[@SamKellyPA]

That’s awesome! Good luck ending this semester🤗

[@effected3319]

Lol so you also play gta 😂 good

[@jeckellstallworth]

Great vide!! I loved how positively you spoke about our profession. Thank you

[@SamKellyPA]

I appreciate that, thanks🤗

[@jlagunas924]

This was very useful and informative! Before becoming an RT, what are some entry level jobs you can obtain to get the experience and work with/learn from RTs?

[@SamKellyPA]

The best would be a Respiratory Equipment Tech; you work for the respiratory department and put together and take apart and clean all the equipment

[@alexiawinner8067]

@@SamKellyPA HI! Do you think you could go into further detail about this job? I've tried researching but haven't found much. I'm interested in the field but definitely want to know how to get my feet wet before jumping in.

[@viviana_lanina1024]

I'm in RT school right now have two more semesters, my question is how do you become good enough to know if what the doctor ordered is good for your patient? How long did it take for you to become comfortable to advocate for your patients?

[@SamKellyPA]

I would say it took me about a year to be comfortable! I mean if the doctor orders the wrong thing then 100% step up even if it’s your first day. But it took me a bit to gain confidence and my hospital helped bc the docs I worked with really respected our profession!

[@jennifersparkman6627]

Accreditation is through CoARC 😌 Great video!!! Thanks so much for your insight.

[@ClaudiaFranco-om2od]

I just got accepted today 🙌 to the program starting this August

[@mariopunk960]

I´m going to study RT and you are an angel thank for this video!!

[@fathimasabreena5620]

Hello...i am an Indian girl...wishing to be a Respiratory therapist❤️....and...a new subscriber too,💞😘

[@cane523]

Thank you for this video! I have an interview for my MSRC on Monday 🙏🏽

[@Livingsteno]

Thank you very much. I subscribed and watched your video. I’m seriously thinking about this profession. 👋🏻😺👍🏻

[@CallMeCJorDandy]

Yeah , i knew Respiratory Therapist is one of the critical Jobs in hospital and i need to train my brain for a certain stressful situations. Welp one way is practicing drawing (like draw in paper). That's my technique to help me focus on a certain goal to be done. I am actually suffering of Dyslexia (disorder of being accurate). That make sense i added that skill 🤗

[@HermanMelendez]

Thank you! Impressive, informative and very intelligent.

[@afifakhan2506]

I am Adult Respiratory Therapist in Pakistan..and i love my job 😇😊

[@paulcooper1046]

Well done, Sam! I'm proud of you.

[@MirajMusicUSA]

Great video. I'm an RT. We do art lines. I love it.

[@dianah3397]

Could you please do who shouldn’t become one type of video? I got accepted into nursing but dropped out cause it was to much... I can’t do feces or open wounds 😪 could you do what kind of fluids and type of video?

[@honeyyork1337]

RT managers are required to have a bachelors degree. Staff respiratory therapists are in such shortage that therapists straight out of their two year program are quickly hired, especially if they have their ACLS and PALS. Be careful educating a provider or questioning a provider….tread carefully. I’ve had wonderful providers who enjoyed working together for the benefit of the patient. I have also had providers who have God complexes and will remind everyone they are the doctor and you are not. It’s not the best position in the hospital system. We are sometimes overlooked…ie how many times was respiratory therapy mentioned during the pandemic? Everyone was grateful to doctors and nurses. I only saw twice when respiratory therapy was mentioned. Funny when you figure we had to be up close and personal in what was the most dangerous area. I do know some therapists who absolutely love their job but most enjoyed the overtime. I know one who loves her job but it does take an emotional toll on her. Be hard, be soft, love whatever you do. Good luck!

[@liberoAquila]

Agreed, in my area we are desperate for RTs and vast majority are from associates program. Having said that, most hospitals will pay you to bridge into a BSRC. While not completely worthless by any means, a BSRC isn't as valuable as a BSN.

[@honeyyork1337]

@@liberoAquila so true! RNs can move in to numerous positions,social work and quality control positions. RTs have a difficult time moving in to other positions.

[@melonhead49]

Get it Sam W…I’m sure you are going far!

[@alisaferrell8968]

❤❤❤Thank you so much l plan to start soon is possible l appreciate all your information and encouragement.

[@Ashleetkc]

I liked this video God bless💕

[@mikaipopo]

I just got accepted in RT school here in Canada. I am undecided if I can handle the course workload and stress in a hospital setting.

[@xenioralad3159]

Which school ?

[@lyubov1627]

@mikaipopo How's its going with RT? Did you handle it?

[@honeyyork1337]

Some therapists are OTJ…On The Job trained at their hospitals so they have to stay where they are.

[@chiquitaess]

I was on my final year in my bachelor RT program in stony brook but had the unfortunate decision to have to drop out due to financial and family reasons. Now I’m back on my final year with the associates in RT (I graduate in may)and this video made me feel so much better about having to go back to complete the bachelors that I didn’t. I need to do more research on majors I can take later but apart from the ones you mentioned are there any more that would help?

[@swarmy9459]

I honestly Believe if we push it to a bachelors than we can get more respect because they understand that we have education for critical thinking

[@Dassa298]

Thank you for this video. I am interested in doing this course.

[@sarahbast2075]

I'm having trouble finding an RT program within a reasonable distance in PA. I'm close the Haershey Med but they don't offer the program just PA and Med school

[@zellequinonez8906]

Can you make a video on how you got into PA school? Like what classes you took as far as prereq? Also, do they pay you more when you have bachelor's for RT?

[@SamKellyPA]

I have lots of video on my PA school journey on my page!

[@Malficion]

I usually say I'm a Nurse Aide that can give medications. 😂 Most of the public pre Covid don't even know what "respiratory" pertains to.

[@keiraportillo5073]

I’m still not 100% sure if I want to become a respiratory therapist I’m going back into my third semester of the program and I am debating whether to go back or not because I already completed two semesters so I kind of have an idea of how the program works and what respiratory therapists do but I don’t know if this is something I really wanna do I don’t see myself working in the hospital for a twelve hour shift on my feet all day and outside of the hospitals there’s not much options out there for respiratory therapists

[@SamKellyPA]

Hey I would finish your degree. If you leave now you have no degree and a lot of debt and a lot of wasted time. Finish and look into non traditional RT jobs like PFTs, pulmonary rehabs, home care! Non of those require 12 hr shifts on your feet in acute care!

[@yoshithetalent]

Did you finish ?

[@serenadelgadillo1069]

Hi Sam, this was so helpful. I'm currently in my last semester of college and I'm trying to figure out what I want to go into. By summer I will have obtained a B.S. in Kinesiology (I have an AA in Kinesiology as well). Would I still need to get a Bachelor's specifically in RT if I want to get into this field? Or would I just need to complete a program and then sit for my boards to become a Certified RT?

[@Dreasugar21]

Hi girl I love watching all your videos

[@italianredneckgirl]

I’m totally confused by this young woman. In my honest opinion, she sounds a bit jaded. I can tell you that my little old AS in Cardiopulmonary Therapy and 27 years in practice ( yeah, I’m a tuber, can run IABP, ECMO, and throw in Aline’s… transport and rappel to assist in search and rescue) will trump ANY new grad with a BS in anything. I suppose, if you truly don’t get what the job will require from you…(you will break, you will be *or at least think* you are the cause of someone’s death, you will wish that newborn that you didn’t suction out enough and is now on CPAP, wasn’t your fault. You will make mistakes.) … this career is not a stepping stone. Well, I suppose, for those who have no intention of being in the field, none of the above will apply. My only point is this, really…I’m a pediatric cardiopulmonary practitioner. I have worked hard and have built a reputation of trust within my medical community. There is nothing more rewarding than that. At the end of the shift, everyone takes off their scrubs and puts on a different hat ( mom, dad, sister, brother,etc…) and after our “real life demands” are satiated, we rest up and go right back to it. We look forward to seeing Mr. Johnson in room 200 to see if he watched the hockey game and made it through the night without an increase need for O2…or Mrs. Smith’s 2 month old baby girl, hoping that there won’t be a need for another ABG as we do CPT on her tiny lungs. Certificate programs for Respiratory Techs, AS programs for CRTs to RRT or just eRRT, Bachelor’s degree for the exact same CRT to RRT license. Who cares really? Can you do your job? Do your patient’s trust you? Do your colleagues know your strengths and weaknesses? And will they boost you up, when needed? And, who will console you when the rubber hits the road? Those things are all that matter…..not the initials

[@Eagles883]

You feel better?

[@johnguillen68]

I have a BS in biology and was trying to get into PA school but I'm having bad luck getting in for the last 3yrs. I thought about going into the nursing program and then to NP but I really don't want to be a nurse. I've been working in the medical field for the last 17 years as an ED Tech while attending school. I don't want to be a tech anymore. I do just about everything a nurse does except for giving medication and the nurse's education. I thought about the RT route because you're focused on certain areas of the body and needed for this special training. Should I go for an AA degree in RT or can I utilize my BS degree? I would like to mainly go into PA school but I'm not young (55) so maybe I can retire as an RT.

[@bryanmaningding3667]

Your awesome Thank you for thi video

[@gossdaboss]

take a shot every time she says respiratory therapist

[@MyLifeInTheDesert]

If you can have an associates as a nurse why would they want a bachelors for RT

[@sixfootfourmike]

Taking my license exam in August. Got Kettering this summer. Any advice?

[@SamKellyPA]

If you’re on school now continue to review and then the two weeks leading up go hard core and study A LOT. If you’re already out of school then make sure you’re keeping your brain fresh and read through info every day! I used Kettering and went through the whole book and passed both on my first try! You got this!

[@Ocelotofkarma]

This was super helpful, thank you!

[@jejehfyyf3600]

Would a bachelors in psychology be acceptable?

[@SamKellyPA]

If you’re asking for after you have your associates in RT then need to go back for bachelors then yeah that’s fine! The bachelors can be in anything!

[@jeanrobert5561]

Was it easy for you to get a job right away and how do you apply when you are a RT

[@melissaaguilar2776]

Kelly, thank you so much for this informative video. How many years does it take to complete a Bachelor's in RT?

[@Malficion]

5:38 I'm offended! I'd like to be called a "Neb-Jockey 🏇" No seriously, the amount of time I'd have to correct a Resident's Covid induced Pneumonia to Pulmonary Edema in Covid units was painful. There were two times the ATTENDING ordered "pulmonary toilets" and nearly drowned the patient. You can see a trend of Ppeak going up and Cstat dropping over time. Luckily a old nurse was there and held the suction for 3 minutes. She pulled 500ml of clear fluid from this guy and pressures went back to normal. 🤦‍♂️

[@viviana_lanina1024]

Also Great video!

[@chloeball2096]

As an RT, are you allowed to wear a lab coat as part of your uniform? I have heard a solid YES and NO from several sources

[@emilyh6585]

My school offers a health science bachelor's degree focused on respiratory care

[@jacobcerda6397]

Thanks for the video it was very helpful! Quick question, i’m currently studying exercise science for my bachelors and thinking about getting my associates in RT after. Would that work?

[@SamKellyPA]

Yup!! That’d be the best and quickest way to do it in your situation!

[@tulipsnholland]

I live in Missouri. All of the hospitals in the area and nearby cities only require an associates with no Bachelors requirement. May just depend on your state but that's not the case here.

[@jade5329]

Respiratory Care Practitioners need a Bachelors, Therapists only need Associates

[@tulipsnholland]

@@jade5329Pulmonologists (Respiratory Care Practitioners) are not RRT's. Extremely different. One goes to school for 8 years and comes out with a DR degree and the other goes to school for only 2 years ;)

[@Chickochick108]

I know you said you don't need a Bachelor's in RT but will you need one with a healthcare emphasis?

[@SamKellyPA]

It can be anything!

[@Chickochick108]

@@SamKellyPA Thank you! I have a Bachelor's and I am going into RT this upcoming fall I am excited!

[@bwp714]

How has it been working through the pandemic ?? How are you doing ?

[@SamKellyPA]

I have a video on how it was like being an RT during the pandemic:) go check it out. I am also no longer working as I am in PA school

[@sasha333-u3v]

How old are you when you become a respiratory therapist. And do you still have to do 4 years of college to become a respiratory therapist. Please answer I know this is a late comment but I’m really curious.

[@sherriehouston8957]

Hi Sam, Im going into Respiratory, and wanted to know if it's true that having a specialty helps you earn more. If this is true, what specialties earn more? Thanks

[@SamKellyPA]

So by specialty do you mean getting your NPS or ACCS certifications? Some hospitals may pay you a few extra dollars an hour for the certifications, while others might not! Sometimes you may need you NPS just to work at that children’s hospital/neonatal unit! Honestly the best way to get paid more is EXPERIENCE & working your way up the clinical ladder at your hospital!

[@sherriehouston8957]

@@SamKellyPA thanks so much for answering my question!! Stay safe, and continue being an "inspiration" to us RTs!! I hope your PA journey is going great!!

[@DELL.ACNT.]

Take a shot Everytime she says respiratory therapist.

[@DPFX_RRT]

Whats a Respiratory Therapist? We are critical care in the ICU. They know what that is. RT inserted alines, RT intubated in all departments, RT also set up IABP, managed the pumps while on the patient, and pulled the catheters, RT was the rapid response team prior to "announced Rapids were a thing" RT draws all the abgs, runs them some places that suck, LOL RT set up and managed the rescue bipaps (just ask a non critical care provider for settings) RT discontinues stupid tx orders, RT also knows all the gossip everywhere. RT will talk all kinds of shit about anyone and not give 1 **** all that for a measly living wage, you will work every other weekend forever and most holidays.

[@andylam83]

Hello big fan. I am going to school for RT. I was hoping if you can make a video talking more about the program . And how long it is and the stress level and more advise to get through it. And how you manage to do the program while working . It would help me get an idea. I have a baby so any advice would help thanks in advance

[@ericgalvan7113]

Hello Sam! I am currently studying for my Bachelors of Public Health. However, I am interested with becoming an RT. Should I finish my degree, and then apply for a RT program. If so, will a Bachelor of Public Health help me with the process of studying to be a RT? Thank you and I wish luck with PA school!

[@maurahennessy3978]

I am a former dental hygienist thinking about what to do career wise if back fusion surgery goes well(L4/5) . You mentioned having to move ventilators and that they are heavy. In your opinion do you think this career would be too physically difficult for someone with this issue? I have always been physical fit until my back pain started. Also I am in my mid 50's!

[@SamKellyPA]

yes so you are expected to be able to push/pull equipment that is 50+ lbs (vents have wheels but they are hundreds of lbs) and lift/turn patients, bend over bedside when recusitating which can all cause strain on the back for someone without back problems. I recommend finding a hospital that allows you to shadow its RT department so you can really see what an RT does and how labor intensive it is and see if it is okay for you. You will be the only person that knows if you can do it:)

[@matthewkjellerson9325]

At 7:47 did you mean to say "NBRC" instead of "AARC" ?

[@ashleythompson6278]

Did you ever find any respiratory badge cards??

[@SamKellyPA]

Yes from scrub pocket!

[@hesoomelo9868]

I wanted to be a Radiologist but was told I had to wait on the waiting list for 3 years so I changed my major to this and I wanted to know is that study hard to pick up or is it straight forward

[@sariah2425]

A radiologist of radiographer?

[@unicornboom5851]

im late so idk if u decided , but make sure RT will be something that yr passion about bcus as stated from many people, there will be death and you have to be okay with tht.

[@warriortokarev]

So whats the difference between a respiratory therapist and a paramedic?

[@-fuk57]

I'm going to spend 1-2 years in the ED before getting into RT training. I have so much to learn but I want to be a part of this. "A good kind of busy" is why I will stay at my hospital forever. Thank you for this video.

[@michaeljimenez3782]

What is the Average salary for RT and hours ? 🤔

[@playdate8827]

Is it a bachelor's degree? And can I get to medical school afterwards? I'm so confused about it