This major is a program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to assist in developing respiratory care plans, administer respiratory care procedures, supervise personnel and equipment operation, maintain records, and consult with other health care team members.
Includes instruction in the applied basic biomedical sciences; anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the respiratory system; clinical medicine; therapeutic procedures; clinical expressions; data collection and record-keeping; patient communication; equipment operation and maintenance; personnel supervision; and procedures for special population groups.
What can you do with a major/degree in Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist Major?
As a Respiratory Therapist, it is your job to assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.
Job opportunities for respiratory therapists are very strong in the future as this career subsector is expected to see a nineteen percent (19%) growth 2019-2029.
Most respiratory therapist hold a bachelor’s degree upon entering this career field. Respiratory therapists are licensed in all states except Alaska; requirements vary by state.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
- American Association for Respiratory Care
- Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
- The National Board for Respiratory Care, Inc.
Publications/Magazines in Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist Major