Respiratory Therapists: Training and Certification in the United States

Written By Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Summary

  • Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in hospital supply and equipment management in the United States.
  • To become a respiratory therapist, individuals must complete a specialized training program and pass a certification exam.
  • Respiratory therapists are responsible for caring for patients with breathing issues and managing equipment such as ventilators in hospitals.

Introduction

In the United States, respiratory therapists play a vital role in hospital supply and equipment management. They are responsible for caring for patients with breathing issues and managing equipment such as ventilators. In this article, we will explore how respiratory therapists are trained and certified to work in hospitals in the United States.

Education and Training

Education Requirements

Individuals who wish to become respiratory therapists in the United States must have at least an associate’s degree in respiratory therapy. Some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in the field.

Accredited Programs

Respiratory therapy programs must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) to ensure that students receive proper training. These programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and clinical experience.

Certification Exam

Once students have completed an accredited program, they are eligible to sit for the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam or the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exam, both of which are administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

Certification

Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)

The CRT exam is the entry-level certification for respiratory therapists in the United States. It covers basic respiratory care knowledge and skills. Once individuals pass this exam, they are eligible to work as respiratory therapists in hospitals.

Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)

Respiratory therapists who wish to advance their careers may choose to pursue the RRT credential. This credential requires passing an additional exam that covers more advanced respiratory care knowledge and skills.

Continuing Education

To maintain their certification, respiratory therapists must complete Continuing Education requirements set by the NBRC. This ensures that they stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in respiratory care.

Roles and Responsibilities

Once certified, respiratory therapists play a variety of roles in hospital supply and equipment management:

  1. Assessing and treating patients with breathing issues
  2. Managing and maintaining ventilators and other respiratory equipment
  3. Educating patients on how to use respiratory equipment at home
  4. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans for patients

Conclusion

Respiratory therapists are essential members of the healthcare team in hospitals in the United States. Through specialized training and certification, they are equipped to care for patients with breathing issues and manage respiratory equipment. By following the educational requirements, passing certification exams, and completing Continuing Education, respiratory therapists ensure that they provide high-quality care to their patients.

a-male-phlebotomist-ties-a-tourniquet-on-a-female-patient

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.

Related Videos

Lauren Davis, BS, CPT

Lauren Davis is a certified phlebotomist with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Miami. With 5 years of hands-on experience in both hospital and mobile phlebotomy settings, Lauren has developed a passion for ensuring the safety and comfort of patients during blood draws. She has extensive experience in pediatric, geriatric, and inpatient phlebotomy, and is committed to advancing the practices of blood collection to improve both accuracy and patient satisfaction.

Lauren enjoys writing about the latest phlebotomy techniques, patient communication, and the importance of adhering to best practices in laboratory safety. She is also an advocate for continuing education in the field and frequently conducts workshops to help other phlebotomists stay updated with industry standards.

Previous

Improving Hospital Efficiency with Technology Solutions

Next

Job Opportunities in Hospital Supply and Equipment Management: A Guide for Career Changers