Respiratory therapists, working under the supervision of physicians, deliver respiratory care therapeutic treatments to patients who have breathing or other cardiopulmonary disorders. They may perform diagnostic tests and conduct limited physical examinations. Respiratory therapists work with patients of all ages. To work in this field one must complete a respiratory therapy training program, earning either an associate or bachelor's degree, and pass a written certification exam.
Now comes the opportunity to learn more about becoming a respiratory therapist. First you should obtain facts about this occupation. Get detailed job descriptions and information on compensation and job outlook in Respiratory Therapist: Career Information. Next, you should look at first hand accounts written by people who actually work in this field. Read our Real Life of a Respiratory Therapist submissions. You will notice that not everyone shares the same opinion. Some people like working as respiratory therapists while others aren't happy. If after reading these accounts you still want to pursue a career as a respiratory therapist, the Should You Become a Respiratory Therapist? quiz can help you find out if you have the characteristics necessary to succeed in this career.