Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory care practitioners perform diagnostic tests, provide treatments and maintain life-support systems for patients with heart and breathing problems. Illnesses, accidents, and birth defects may cause poorly functioning or non-functioning lungs. Emphysema, asthma, pneumonia, heart failure, chest injuries and other conditions are causes of these problems. The respiratory practitioner is knowledgeable about the problems requiring respiratory care and is trained to perform tests and treatments under a physician's supervision.  Respiratory therapists, under the direction of physicians, assist in evaluating, treating, and caring for clients with breathing problems. They use a great deal of independent judgment to make recommendations to the health care team regarding patients' respiratory care. These therapists measure lung function, analyze blood samples for gases, monitor life support equipment, and use equipment that delivers oxygen or enhances breathing.

Places of Employment
Hospitals

High School/General Preparation
High School diploma required

Special Education/Training
Associate degree in Respiratory Therapy

Schools
Rogue Valley Community College
www2.roguecc.edu/alliedhealth/respiratory/home.htm
www.roguecc.edu

Lane Community College
www.lanecc.edu/instadv/catalog/fahealth/programs/respcare.htm
www.lanecc.edu

Mount Hood Community College
www.mhcc.cc.or.us/academics/catalog/programs/repir.htm
www.mhcc.cc.or.us

Licensure, Certification, and Registration
Oregon Respiratory Licensing Board
www.hdlp.hr.state.or.us

Professional Organization
American Association of Respiratory Care
www.aarc.org

Oregon Society for Respiratory Care
www.osrcnw.org

© Copyright 2002 Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems