Respiratory therapists are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with respiratory disorders. This can include anything from pneumonia to asthma. It’s a demanding, engaging, and rewarding profession that is projected to experience significant job growth in the years to come. Due to these factors, it’s understandable that there is growing interest in learning what it takes to build a career in the field. If you want to work in this discipline but aren’t sure where to start, read on for tips on getting a job in respiratory therapy.
How can you get a job in respiratory therapy?
Respiratory therapists help people with breathing problems. They work with people who have asthma, emphysema, and other diseases that affect breathing. Therapists treat a wide range of patients, from newborns to the elderly. They also work with people who have been in accidents or who have had surgery. Whether you’re interested in emergency medicine, outpatient care, or pediatric work, there is a job for you in respiratory therapy.
The best way to start is by researching degree programs so you can obtain the qualifications you need to begin a career as a respiratory therapist. The good news is that there are a number of great respiratory therapy programs out there, you just need to find the one that’s right for you. If you plan to work during school or currently have a job, you may want to consider respiratory therapist programs online, which will provide you with a flexible schedule and a more accessible learning experience.
If you’re a high-school student, you should consider working with college admission consultants during the application process. They can help you with everything from compiling your application to choosing the right schools. They can also help you with essay writing and preparing for interviews. You can tell them exactly what your career goals are and work together to come up with a realistic plan you can follow to ensure you get accepted to your dream school.
What else should you know about working in the field?
It is no secret that respiratory therapy is a highly sought-after field of study. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow by 23 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. Keep in mind that you’ll need to obtain a license after you graduate from school before you’re able to work as a practicing therapist. To get a license, you must pass a test called the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam. When creating your résumé, highlight your academic achievements, skills, and unique abilities. Be sure to list any certifications you may have obtained, as well as your level of experience.
It is also important to network with professionals in the respiratory therapy field. Attend industry events and meet-ups, and connect with respiratory therapists on social media. Building relationships with professionals in the field will help you learn more about the industry and may lead to job opportunities. Stay up to date on the latest industry trends. Read journals and blogs, and attend conferences. By keeping up with the latest news, you will be able to demonstrate that you are knowledgeable and passionate about the field of respiratory therapy.
There are many different ways to become a respiratory therapist. The most common way is to have an associate’s degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited school. Since a career in respiratory therapy is both in high demand and a good fit for many people, it is necessary that you put together a strong resume so you can stand out. Fortunately, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting impressive job growth in the industry, so you should have plenty of opportunities available to you. No matter how you go about getting a job in respiratory therapy, there are few things more essential than having a strong work ethic and a passion for being a respiratory therapist.