Respiratory Therapist

 

Career Description

Registered respiratory therapists (RRT) and certified respiratory therapists (CRT) work under a physician’s
supervision to treat and care for patients with pulmonary disorders. Patients may suffer from chronic
asthma or emphysema or may be victims of heart attack, stroke, shock or other illnesses or diseases.
Respiratory therapists care for premature infants with underdeveloped lungs, as well as for seniors
who have increased susceptibility to pulmonary disease. Recently, respiratory therapists have begun
assuming the additional duties of cardiopulmonary technologists and may choose to specialize in other
specific areas within the profession.

Academic Requirements

Registered respiratory therapists (RRT) are required to complete either a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. Upon graduation, they are eligible to take a national voluntary examination, which is administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care. Subsequently, they may take two more examinations that lead to the registered respiratory therapist (RRT) credential.

Certified respiratory therapist (CRT) programs generally last from 12-18 months and award a certificate of completion. The National Board for Respiratory Care offers a certification examination for technicians.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program qualifies graduates for entry into the advanced practitioner credentialing system, leading to the highest professional credential available in the field. The credentialing is a two part process. First, individuals must take a nationally administered examination soon after graduation. Graduates who pass this exam will earn the entry level credential, certified respiratory therapist (CRT), and will be eligible to enter the registry credentialing system. Candidates who pass both registry exams will earn the registered respiratory therapist (RRT) credential. The CRT credential is required for state licensure. In a hospital setting, the RRT credential is preferred.

Schools

Sanford-Brown College - Fenton
636/349-4900

Southwestern Illinois College
800/222-5131

St. Louis Community College - Forest Park
314/644-9234

Professional Associations

National
American Association for Respiratory Care
The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC)

State
Missouri Society for Respiratory Care
Missouri State Board for Respiratory Care

Additional Information

Learn More About Therapy and Rehabilitation
Read Personal Accounts of Current Respiratory Therapists