Respiratory therapy is a quickly growing field, and publication after publication lists it as one of the top jobs in high demand for the coming years as the Baby Boomer population increases.
Like any other career in the medical field, respiratory therapy requires specific study, certification, and hands-on experience. If you're thinking about entering this career field, here are steps for planning to achieve your goal:
1. Graduate from High School
Before you go to college, you need to get your high school diploma. There are classes that you can take while in high school that will benefit you when you get to college. These classes include biology, anatomy, various types of math, and other science courses. If there is a health program at your school that has medical courses, then this would be the best route to take.
2. Get Into A Program
During your last year of high school, you want to start looking for an accredited school that offers respiratory technology programs. There are some online classes that are offered through schools, but the best thing to do, to get the most experience, is to find a school where you can take classes on campus. Most community colleges and large universities offer respiratory therapy programs. Some hospitals offer programs for those who would rather have a basic certification.
3. Complete The Program
After you have enrolled in the program, strive to get the best grades that you possibly can because this will help your resume when you apply for a job. Make sure you pass all of the required courses in the program and any clinical aspects required before graduating. You will probably have to take a test from the National Board for Respiratory Care in order to achieve your certification and other credentials. There are some schools that will let you graduate without taking the test, but you can't practice in the field until you have this certification.
4. Apply For Jobs
There are several places where you can look for a job as a respiratory therapist. Look online at job sites so that you can complete numerous applications at one time. Make sure that you include a resume. Add a section for your certifications on the resume so that you are as professional as possible in the eyes of the employer. Most companies will require you to have your CPR certification. It would be best to pass this certification before applying for jobs so that it can be added to your resume. Call the locations you apply to so that they will know you are interested in the position.
5. Complete Any Advancements
If you want to earn more money or have better job opportunities, then continue to take refresher courses after you have graduated and after you have started working. You can become a Registered Respiratory Therapist if you graduate from a program that offers these advanced courses. At least two other tests are required to earn this advancement.
