Individuals battling various illnesses rely on respiratory therapists to provide life-saving interventions and therapies. Through their expertise in managing and treating respiratory conditions, respiratory therapists help patients breathe easier, improving both their lung function and their quality of life. 

Keep reading to learn about the roles, responsibilities, and educational requirements involved in the respiratory therapist profession. Discover how you can excel in this dynamic and impactful field. 

The Vital Role of Respiratory Therapists 

As the U.S. population ages, there is an increasing demand for specialized medical care to address respiratory conditions prevalent among the elderly. The ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic have amplified this issue, creating an even greater need for skilled respiratory therapists. These professionals are integral in ventilator management, oxygen therapy, diagnostic testing, and medication administration. They collaborate with doctors, nurses, and specialists to implement holistic treatment plans that provide comprehensive care to patients with respiratory conditions. 

Responsibilities of a Respiratory Therapist 

Respiratory therapists handle a diverse range of tasks aimed at preventing, managing, and treating respiratory conditions, including: 

• Performing diagnostic tests such as arterial blood gas analyses, peak flow measurements, pulse oximetry tests, and spirometry tests. 
• Administering nebulizer treatments and inhaled medications.
• Managing and adjusting mechanical ventilators, including helping patients gradually reduce their reliance on ventilation.
• Interviewing patients to gather detailed information about their medical history, symptoms, and conditions. 
• Providing guidance and support to patients using respiratory devices at home and ensuring they know how to use the equipment safely and effectively.
• Tracking and evaluating patient progress through metrics like forced vital capacity and blood oxygen levels. 
• Working with pulmonologists, respiratory assistants, thoracic surgeons, and other medical professionals to create cohesive treatment strategies. 

Specializations in Respiratory Therapy 

Respiratory therapists (RTs) often specialize in specific areas. For example, neonatal RTs monitor and treat infants who are on respirators or ventilators, while pediatric RTs help children with asthma, cystic fibrosis, allergies, or other conditions that negatively impact their breathing ability. Geriatric RTs work with elderly patients who have respiratory tract infections, COPD, and other illnesses. Respiratory therapists may also concentrate exclusively on delivering exercise training, education, and support to patients in pulmonary rehabilitation facilities. RTs who specialize in sleep disorders often work in clinics where they perform polysomnography assessments and other tests to diagnose conditions such as sleep apnea.   

Pursuing an Online Respiratory Therapy Degree 

The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) requires individuals to earn an associate degree to become a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). Online respiratory therapy degrees offer a practical and cost-effective option for individuals pursuing a respiratory therapy education while juggling other responsibilities. Because these degrees don’t require costs for on-campus housing, meal plans, or commutes, online programs are often more affordable than traditional four-year universities. Additionally, students enrolled in an online respiratory therapist program benefit from flexible scheduling that allows them to complete coursework from home at their convenience. 

Associate Degree vs. Bachelor's Degree 

While an associate degree is the minimum educational requirement for a career as a respiratory therapist, some individuals choose to earn a bachelor’s degree. When deciding which educational path to pursue, it's helpful to consider the costs and benefits of both degree types. An associate degree in respiratory therapy typically takes two years to complete, although some programs offer competency-based or accelerated options that allow students to finish more quickly. Associate degree programs typically include courses in cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology, blood gas analysis, healthcare management, microbiology, pharmacology, and chemistry. These courses provide a strong educational foundation for entry-level respiratory therapy positions. 

A bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy is traditionally a four-year degree, but some students may graduate sooner by transferring credits or choosing accelerated programs. Bachelor’s degree programs include high-level courses in cardiopulmonary anatomy, physiology, respiratory diseases, healthcare management, patient care, and leadership. By earning a bachelor’s degree, respiratory therapists are better positioned for advanced and specialized roles. 

Respiratory Therapy Salary and Career Outlook 

Respiratory therapists help patients live longer, healthier lives. This vital contribution to patient well-being gives many respiratory therapists a deep sense of purpose and meaning. In addition to personal fulfillment, respiratory therapists can expect competitive salaries and above-average job outlooks. The demand for skilled respiratory therapists is growing, meaning there are ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement in this field. 

Competitive Salaries for Respiratory Therapists 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for respiratory therapists is $77,960. A respiratory therapist's salary can vary based on several factors. Geographic location plays a significant role, as earnings are generally higher in areas with high costs of living. The work setting can also influence salary potential. For example, the BLS reports that respiratory therapists working in hospitals and physicians’ offices earn higher salaries on average than those employed by nursing care facilities. A respiratory therapist’s education, experience, and professional credentials also influence their earning potential. 

Promising Job Growth and Opportunities 

The BLS estimates a 16% increase in the employment of respiratory therapists from 2022 to 2032. This significantly exceeds the average growth rate for all occupations. Employment projections indicate that there will be approximately 8,600 openings for respiratory therapists each year during this period. With such promising forecasts, now is an optimal time to pursue a career in respiratory care.

Take the First Step toward Your Healthcare Career 

Healthcare is a rapidly growing field. According to the BLS, the demand for professionals in fields like nursing, respiratory therapy, and medical and health service management is increasing much faster than average. If you seek a high-paying, in-demand job that allows you to improve patient lives, earning a degree from WGU can equip you with the skills needed to thrive. Our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Prelicensure) degree program can teach you essential competencies in anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, community health, and other core domains, empowering you to provide exceptional patient care in a diverse range of healthcare settings. 

If you’re currently a registered nurse looking to enhance your résumé and expand your skill set, consider WGU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN). This online, CCNE-accredited program deepens and builds upon your current knowledge through courses covering research, theory, therapeutic interventions, and healthcare policy. WGU also offers degrees in health and human services, health science, healthcare administration, and public health. Whatever your career goals, earning a degree from WGU can be a vital step in your journey.