What is a Respiratory Therapists?
A Respiratory Therapist (sometimes called respiratory care practitioner) is an essential member of the health care team. Like other Allied Health professions, the Respiratory Therapist (RT) works under the direction of a physician. In most states, a license is required to practice as a Respiratory Therapist. By taking credentialing examinations administered through the National Board For Respiratory Care (NBRC) graduates of an accredited program can become certified and registered Respiratory Therapist. RT’s participate in the diagnostic evaluation and management of patients with deficiencies of the heart and lungs. Most RT’s work in a hospital, but there are many other opportunities. You can learn more about licensure and credentialing by going to the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) web site. To find descriptions of the profession and learn about available jobs go to the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) web site.
