Earnings Potential
According to a survey conducted by the National Bureau of Labor Statistics, respiratory therapists earned a median annual income of $47,420 in May 2006. The highest 10 percent earned more than $56,160 while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $35,200. Respiratory Therapy at a Glance
Coursework in respiratory therapy degree programs includes studies in physiology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, pharmacology, and mathematics. Specific instruction for hands-on skills is given to teach students on standard medical procedures, equipment usage, patient care, rehabilitation, and disease prevention. Examples/Details of Work
Respiratory therapists treat patients who suffer from specific breathing and cardiopulmonary afflictions. They consult with primary care physicans to diagnose and map out treatment plans for patients. They test patients' breathing capacities and analyze blood samples to help provide proper care for patients. Respiratory therapists can work in hospitals or in personal home health care. Examples of specific treatments that respiratory therapists provide include chest physiotherapy, which allows for easier breathing by removing mucus from the lungs; instruction on ventilators and like-systems; and administration of aerosol medications, which allows for proper flow of nutrients to the blood. Obtainable Degrees
Associate's and bachelor's degrees are available. Certification with the National Board for Respiratory Care allows for more job opportunities.
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