Respiratory therapy is a medical profession that cares for patients with breathing problems. They assess, diagnose, treat and manage patients with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and cystic fibrosis. Respiratory therapists also work with patients who have sleep apnea, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. They may also work in the critical care unit of a hospital, helping patients who are on a ventilator to breathe. Becoming a respiratory therapist (RT) can be a stable and rewarding career, but many people don’t know where to begin. If you need advice, keep reading to find out how to jumpstart your career in the respiratory therapy field.
How can you jumpstart your career in the respiratory therapy field?
One of the best ways to advance your career in the respiratory therapy field is to consider working as a travel therapist, even if it’s just for a short period of time. Working as a healthcare traveler can have many advantages, including the chance to work in a variety of hospital systems, see new places, and develop your skills. If you’re looking for travel respiratory therapist jobs, the best place to start is by working with a staffing and recruitment agency that is designed to assist healthcare travelers, so you can find open assignments and get your next job.
Before you can apply for jobs, you’ll need to obtain the necessary qualifications and education. That means getting your degree in respiratory therapy. A bachelor’s degree is required for most jobs, though you can qualify for more advanced jobs in the field by pursuing a graduate-level degree after you finish your undergraduate education. You can even find respiratory therapist schools online, so you can complete your degree program from the comfort of your own home. This is ideal for nontraditional students or those who want to work while they’re in school.
Preparing for interviews related to respiratory care positions is a key part of the process when looking to improve your career in the respiratory therapy field. It can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation and research, you can make sure that you are ready for any questions you may face. This will give you a much better chance of being a successful applicant.
What can you expect when working as a respiratory therapist?
Now that you know a little more about how to become a respiratory therapist, let’s discuss what you can expect from a career in respiratory therapy. For one, respiratory therapists tend to make above-average salaries and have excellent job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for certified RTs is $66,830, which is well above the national average. Job growth in the field is projected to be much faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding work.
Additionally, being a respiratory therapist is a deeply fulfilling career. As a respiratory therapist, you will have the opportunity to assist people who are suffering from a variety of respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis. You will be working with patients to help them manage their symptoms, improve their quality of life, and stay as healthy as possible. If you choose to become a travel worker, you can also be a part of addressing healthcare worker shortages all over the country.
As you can see, there are several ways you can jumpstart your career in respiratory therapy. You should start by obtaining the degrees and certifications you need to become a practicing RT, including a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy. Once you’re ready to apply for jobs, you’ll be glad to know there are recruiting agencies specifically to support healthcare workers, including travel workers. Working in respiratory therapy will provide you with an above-average salary and a plethora of job opportunities in many locations too. Follow this advice and you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding career as a respiratory therapist.
