Graduates of the online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Respiratory Care program from Northern Kentucky University (NKU) are likely to enter a job market where their skills and knowledge are in high demand. After all, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the need for respiratory therapists (RTs) will grow by 12% through 2034.
As members of the patient care team, respiratory therapists play a critical role, providing treatments across all age groups, from premature infants to elderly patients. Their work combines technical skills with patient interaction, making respiratory therapy a unique field for those interested in rewarding healthcare careers.
Still, many people do not fully understand just what respiratory therapists do. This article satisfies curiosity by providing an overview of RTs’ daily responsibilities and work environment.
What Does a Respiratory Therapist Do?
Respiratory therapists assess and treat patients with breathing difficulties and cardiopulmonary disorders. They work collaboratively with physicians, nurses and medical assistants as integral members of the healthcare team, administering diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function tests and blood gas analysis.
Every day, RTs help care teams save lives by providing emergency care during cardiac arrest, respiratory distress and trauma situations. They also manage mechanical ventilators for critically ill patients requiring life support and educate patients on proper use of respiratory equipment and medications used to treat asthma and lung disease.
Where Do Respiratory Therapists Spend Their Workday?
Around 80% of respiratory therapists work in fast-paced hospital environments. They often see patients across multiple departments, but some may be assigned to a single area, such as intensive care, emergency medicine or neonatal care.
Per BLS, 4% of RTs work in long-term care facilities, typically providing care for elderly patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Some find employment in clinics and outpatient settings, such as sleep laboratories. Others work for home health care agencies or even for telemedicine services, monitoring respiratory care equipment from remote locations.
What Does a Typical Shift Look Like?
A typical respiratory therapist shift begins with the previous RT reviewing changes in patient status. Then, the RT will typically conduct rounds to assess assigned patients and review treatment plans.
Communication with healthcare team members consumes a significant portion of daily duties, and documenting all treatments and patient responses in medical records accounts for another large share of work time. They also must be ready to respond to emergency codes requiring immediate airway management.
RTs may perform numerous patient care tasks during their workday. They administer scheduled breathing treatments and aerosol medications throughout shifts and monitor ventilator patients by frequently checking settings and patient response. In addition, respiratory therapists frequently perform diagnostic procedures, including drawing arterial blood gases to aid in diagnosing conditions.
How Do Work Schedules Impact Work-Life Balance?
Because they must deliver round-the-clock care, hospitals and long-term care facilities provide shift variety, allowing RTs to find schedules that match their personal needs and responsibilities. Some facilities offer 12-hour shifts and four-day weekends every other week. Others create 10-hour shifts with three-day weekends each week. When working night shifts, holidays and weekends, RTs may qualify for higher rates of pay.
RTs looking for more flexibility may opt for part-time or per diem positions. Those who prefer to work more conventional daylight-only hours may also pursue employment in outpatient settings, where shifts tend to be fixed and regular.
What Challenges Do Respiratory Therapists Face Daily?
Like any job, respiratory therapy poses challenges. The role can be physically demanding with RTs standing for extended periods and assisting with patient mobility. There is also a risk of exposure to infectious diseases, so strict safety protocols are in place. Also, RTs must find ways to work collaboratively with diverse personalities across many healthcare disciplines.
Respiratory therapy can also be a high-stress field. Dealing with critically ill and dying patients can take an emotional toll on therapists. Plus, RTs often have to make snap decisions in high-pressure situations, and patient conditions and treatment priorities can change rapidly, requiring them to be highly adaptable.
Still, many RTs get profound satisfaction from their work despite its challenges. Respiratory therapists make a real difference in others’ lives, and they can see the results of their efforts in measurable patient improvements.
What Skills Make Respiratory Therapists Successful?
Success in respiratory therapy careers requires technical proficiency with a wide range of advanced medical equipment. In addition, RTs benefit from strong computer skills for using electronic healthcare record (EHR) systems.
Physical strength and stamina are necessary for delivering hands-on patient care and moving equipment. Also, respiratory therapists usually need the following soft skills:
- Critical thinking abilities for evaluating symptoms and treatment effectiveness
- Strong interpersonal skills for building patient relationships and team collaboration
- Compassion and empathy for providing care during vulnerable patient moments
- Attention to detail for monitoring equipment and administering precise treatments
- Problem-solving skills for troubleshooting equipment and addressing complications
- Patience for working with anxious or uncooperative patients
Why Is Now the Right Time to Pursue a Career in Respiratory Care?
As a field, respiratory therapy will likely grow faster than average through 2034, making now a great time to pursue a career as a respiratory therapist. In addition to retirements and job changes, an aging population and the high prevalence of respiratory conditions caused by smoking and air pollution may continue to drive that need for even longer.
Many areas of the country face respiratory therapist shortages, leading to abundant job opportunities for qualified professionals. Plus, attracting highly skilled candidates compels many employers to offer competitive pay. In May 2024, the median annual salary for respiratory therapists was $80,450.
Unlike other healthcare fields, respiratory therapy does not involve many years of college study. In fact, many jobs only require an associate degree, which most people earn in about two years. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree through a program like NKU’s online B.S. in Respiratory Care can open the door to advanced positions and leadership roles.
Advancing Your Respiratory Care Career
As a respiratory therapist, you can make a real difference in others’ lives while enjoying the flexibility to work with diverse patient populations across many healthcare settings. The growing demand for RTs translates into job security, and professionals in the field often enjoy competitive salaries and flexible scheduling.
Plus, respiratory therapists can advance into leadership and specialized roles with additional education and experience. NKU’s online B.S. in Respiratory Care degree prepares RTs to take the next step in their careers. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC), the program covers healthcare research and management, health informatics, pathophysiology, and advanced critical care. The flexible online format meets the needs of working professionals, and students can earn their degree requirements in as little as a year.
Advance in your practice as a respiratory therapist with NKU’s affordable online program. Request more information or apply today.
Learn more about NKU’s online B.S. in Respiratory Care program.
