Respiratory Therapist Career Guide

Respiratory Therapists (RTs) evaluate, treat, and manage patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders across hospitals, clinics, and home care. Daily duties include assessing respiratory status, operating and configuring ventilators, delivering aerosolized medications and oxygen therapy, performing diagnostic tests (arterial blood gases, spirometry), responding to emergency airway and code events, educating patients and families on breathing techniques and equipment, documenting care, and working closely with physicians, nurses, and other allied health professionals. Shifts often include nights, weekends, and on-call rotations; RTs must be comfortable with rapid decision-making, hands-on procedures, and infection-control practices.

What skills does a Respiratory Therapist need?

Mechanical ventilation management and troubleshootingAirway management and emergency response (intubation support, CPR)Pulmonary function testing and arterial blood gas interpretationClinical assessment and patient educationStrong communication and teamwork within multidisciplinary teamsAttention to detail and accurate clinical documentationCritical thinking and rapid decision-making under pressure

How do I become a Respiratory Therapist?

Research and Choose an Accredited Program

Select a Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC)-accredited associate or bachelor program. Consider clinical rotation sites, pass rates, and program length. Confirm state licensure and NBRC eligibility requirements.

Complete Coursework and Clinical Rotations

Finish required coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, cardiopulmonary pathology, and respiratory care techniques while completing hands-on clinical rotations to build patient-care experience and practical skills.

Pass Credentialing Exams and Obtain Licensure

Prepare for and pass NBRC exams: the Therapist Multiple-Choice (CRT) and, if pursuing advanced practice, the Clinical Simulation Exam (RRT). Apply for state licensure where required and obtain ACLS/BLS certifications.

Gain Entry-Level Experience

Seek positions in hospitals, acute care, pulmonary clinics, or home respiratory services. Focus on mastering ventilator management, emergency response, and diagnostic testing. Use mentorship and continuing education to expand skills.

Specialize and Advance

Pursue specialty certifications (neonatal/pediatric, critical care), a bachelor’s degree if desired, or supervisor/manager roles. Build expertise for roles in education, disease management programs, or research.

What education do you need to become a Respiratory Therapist?

Most employers hire RTs with an accredited Associate of Science in Respiratory Care (2-year) as the minimum. A Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (4-year) improves advancement and specialty opportunities. Alternatives include accredited certificate programs for those with related healthcare degrees or military training that meet NBRC eligibility. Clinical externships/clinical hours required by programs are essential. State licensure is required in many states; check local requirements.

Recommended Certifications for Respiratory Therapists

Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) — NBRC
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) — NBRC (advanced credential)
Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist (NPS) — NBRC
Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS) — NBRC
Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)

Respiratory Therapist Job Outlook & Demand

Employment for Respiratory Therapists is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade due to an aging population, rising rates of chronic respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma), and ongoing need for critical care services and pulmonary rehabilitation. Growth will vary by region and care setting; acute care hospitals, home care, and outpatient pulmonary clinics will continue to be major employers. Ongoing technological advances in ventilators and pulmonary diagnostics will drive demand for skilled practitioners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Respiratory Therapist

How long does it take to become a Respiratory Therapist?

Most entry pathways take 2 years (associate degree) plus exam preparation; a bachelor's degree takes 4 years. Additional time for clinical hours and credential exams can add several months.

What certification do I need to work as a Respiratory Therapist?

Complete an accredited respiratory therapy program and pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) entry exam (CRT) and typically the advanced Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exam; state licensure may also be required.

What does a Respiratory Therapist do day-to-day?

RTs assess and treat patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary conditions, manage ventilators, administer therapies (O2, inhaled meds), perform diagnostics (ABGs, PFTs), and collaborate with clinical teams.

Is Respiratory Therapy a growing field with job security?

Yes. Demand is driven by aging populations, chronic respiratory disease prevalence, and critical care needs; employment is projected to grow faster than average over the next decade.