Respiratory Therapists

Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory Therapists provide assessment and treatment for patients with lung problems, They oversee patient care and supervise respiratory technicians. They provide emergency care: intubation, artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or resuscitation.They set up, adjust and maintain various types of equipment: oxygen tents, incubators, resuscitators, ventilators, areosal inhalors for moisture or medications, oxygen tanks, and the attendant hoses and gauges.They monitor and record the patient’s responses to treatment (vital signs and blood gas or chemistry changes) and create patient records. They provide therapy to clear the lungs. They work as part of a health care team and consult with nurses and doctors as necessary and in emergent situations.They teach exercises to patients and families, and instruct them in the use of equipment. They visit patients to inspect and clean the equipment and monitor patient progress.They work mainly in hospitals and clinics, standing most of the time. They move equipment and may reposition patients, ifting up to 50 pounds. There may be exposure to diseases.

Holand Code

SIR

Field/Cluster:

Health, Medical, Fitness, and Personal Care Services

Future Jobs Avail:

Education Level:

3

Job Growth (%)

Annual Job Opening

Lowest 10% Salary ($)

43750

Median Salary ($)

60280

Highest 90% Salary ($)

83520
Similar Jobs and Specialties:
Acute Care Nurses Critical Care Nurses Nuclear Medicine Technologists Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics Ear, Nost, and Throat SpecialistsDietetic Technicians Respiratory Therapy Technicians Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses Radiologic Technicians