Respiratory Therapists

Assess, treat, and care for patients with breathing disorders. Assume primary responsibility for all respiratory care modalities, including the supervision of respiratory therapy technicians. Initiate and conduct therapeutic procedures; maintain patient records; and select, assemble, check, and operate equipment.

Tasks Include:

Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.
Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Determine requirements for treatment, such as type, method and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, or medication and dosages, compatible with physicians' orders.
Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions occur.
Read prescription, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition.
Enforce safety rules and ensure careful adherence to physicians' orders.
Maintain charts that contain patients' pertinent identification and therapy information.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Projections Quick View:

Virginia: +7.5%

National: +13.1%

Education

Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)

Job Zone:

Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Income Range:

Highest ($50,000 and up)

Median Earnings:

National

$77,960.00

State

$76,230.00

Regional

Respiratory Therapists

Description

Career Cluster:

Health Science

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Education

Required Level of Education

Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 82.75%
Bachelor's Degree = 11.69%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production) = 5.15%
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master. = 0.41%

Related Work Experience

Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 30.87%
None = 23.42%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 20.18%
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 9.14%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 6.19%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 5.20%
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years = 2.78%
Up to and including 1 month = 2.22%

On-Site or In-Plant Training

Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 27.82%
Up to and including 1 month = 24.77%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 21.65%
None = 13.32%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 7.19%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 5.25%

On-the-Job Training

Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 38.17%
Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 24.23%
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 9.64%
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 9.57%
Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 8.36%
None or short demonstration = 5.73%
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 4.28%

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.
Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Determine requirements for treatment, such as type, method and duration of therapy, precautions to be taken, or medication and dosages, compatible with physicians' orders.
Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions occur.
Read prescription, measure arterial blood gases, and review patient information to assess patient condition.
Enforce safety rules and ensure careful adherence to physicians' orders.
Maintain charts that contain patients' pertinent identification and therapy information.
Inspect, clean, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently, ordering repairs when necessary.
Educate patients and their families about their conditions and teach appropriate disease management techniques, such as breathing exercises or the use of medications or respiratory equipment.
Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and allay fears.
Relay blood analysis results to a physician.
Perform pulmonary function and adjust equipment to obtain optimum results in therapy.
Perform bronchopulmonary drainage and assist or instruct patients in performance of breathing exercises.
Demonstrate respiratory care procedures to trainees or other healthcare personnel.
Teach, train, supervise, or use the assistance of students, respiratory therapy technicians, or assistants.
Use a variety of testing techniques to assist doctors in cardiac or pulmonary research or to diagnose disorders.
Make emergency visits to resolve equipment problems.
Conduct tests, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), stress testing, or lung capacity tests, to evaluate patients' cardiopulmonary functions.
Work as part of a team of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties.
Transport patients to the hospital or within the hospital.

Supplemental Tasks Include:

Perform endotracheal intubation to maintain open airways for patients who are unable to breathe on their own.
Monitor cardiac patients, using electrocardiography devices, such as a holter monitor.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Tools and Technology

Tools Include:

Nebulizers or accessories (Aerosol masks)
Respiratory therapy compressors (Air compressors)
Resuscitation masks or accessories (Ambu bags)
Apnea monitors or accessories (Apnea monitors)
Bedside pulmonary function screeners (Bedside spirometers)
Non invasive bi level machines (Bilevel positive airway pressure BiPAP ventilators)
Blood collection syringes
Arterial blood gas monitors or accessories (Blood gas kits)
Arterial blood gas monitors or accessories (Blood gas machines)
Bronchoscopes or accessories (Bronchoscopes)
Medical nasal cannulae (Cannulas)
Pulmonary functioning tubing or accessories (Capillary catheters)
Autotransfusion units (Cell savers)
Oxygen delivery connectors or adapters (Christmas tree adapters)
Non invasive continuous positive air pressure machines (Continuous positive airway pressure CPAP ventilators)
Electrocardiography EKG units
Electronic blood pressure units (Electronic blood pressure equipment)
Endotracheal tubes (Endotracheal ET tubes)
Vacuum blood collection tubes or containers (Evacuated blood collection tubes)
Cardiac output CO monitoring units or accessories (Hemodynamic monitors)
High frequency ventilators (High-frequency ventilators)
Respiratory humidifiers or vaporizers (Humidifiers)
Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies (Incentive spirometers)
Respiratory monitoring kits or its accessories (Indirect calorimeters)
Clinical incubators or infant warmers (Infant incubators)
Intermittent positive pressure breathing IPPB machines (Internal positive pressure breathing IPPB machines)
Intraaortic balloon pumps or accessories (Intra-aortic balloon pumps IABP)
Respiratory manometer kits (Manometers)
Mercury blood pressure units (Manual blood pressure equipment)
Mechanical stethoscopes or accessories (Mechanical stethoscopes)
Medical aerosol tents
Medical oxygen masks or parts (Medical oxygen masks)
Medical suction or vacuum appliances (Medical suction equipment)
Medical nasal cannulae (Nasal airways)
Nebulizers or accessories (Nebulizers)
Chest cuirass products (Negative pressure ventilators)
Notebook computers
Medical oxygen masks or parts (Oral airways)
Oxygen concentrators
Flow sensors or regulators or components (Oxygen flowmeters)
Medical head hoods (Oxygen hoods)
Medical oxygen masks or parts (Oxygen masks)
Oxygen monitors or supplies (Oxygen monitors)
Flow sensors or regulators or components (Oxygen regulators)
Medical gas cylinders or related devices (Oxygen tanks)
Medical aerosol tents (Oxygen tents)
Chest percussors (Percussors)
Personal computers
Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers (Personal digital assistants PDA)
Tablet computers (Portable flat computers)
Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies (Pulmonary function testing PFT equipment)
Pulse oximeter units (Pulse oximeters)
Perfusion oxygen or hematocrit saturation monitors or accessories (Saturation of oxygen SaO2 monitors)
Nebulizers or accessories (Small particle aerosol generators)
Sputum collection apparatus or containers (Sputum traps)
Surgical isolation suits or helmets or facemasks or accessories (Surgical suits)
Tourniquets
Tracheostomy tubes
Nebulizers or accessories (Tracheotomy masks)
Treadmill exercisers for rehabilitation or therapy (Treadmills)
Adult or pediatric intensive care ventilators (Volume ventilators)
Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies (Wright's spirometers)

Technologies Include:

Calendar and scheduling software

Calendar and scheduling software

Data base user interface and query software

Database software

Electronic mail software

Microsoft Outlook

Internet browser software

Netscape software

Medical software

Electronic medical record EMR software

Presentation software

Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

Microsoft Excel

Word processing software

Microsoft Word

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Special Requirements

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

An applicant for licensure shall submit the following on forms provided by the board:

1. A completed application and a fee

2. Verification of professional education in respiratory care

3. Verification of practice as required on the application form.

4. Evidence of passage of the national examination

5. If licensed or certified in any other jurisdiction, documentation of active practice as a respiratory care practitioner and verification that there has been no disciplinary action taken or pending in that jurisdiction.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

An applicant for licensure shall:

1. Be a graduate of an accredited educational program for respiratory care practitioners; or

2. Hold current credentialing as a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) from the NBRC or any other credentialing body determined by the board to be equivalent.

EXAM:

-Certified Respiratory Care Technicians must pass a written examination given by the NBRC
-Registered Respiratory Care Therapists must pass a written entry - level examination and a written registry and clinical simulation exam

Required Fees:

-Application: $130
-Renewal: $13

For More Information, Contact:

Department Of Health Professions
Board Of Medicine
6606 West Broad Street, 4th Floor
Richmond, VA 23230-1717
Phone: 804.662.9900
TTY: 804.662.7197
http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/

Virginia For Respiratory Care
5615 Rowena Drive
Centreville, VA 20120-1425
Phone: 703.815.1811
http://www.vsrc.org/

Virginia Society For Respiratory Care
4405 Cox Road, Suite 110
Innsbrook Corporate Center
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Phone: 804.270.5083
http://www.vsrc.org/

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Additional Resources

Information concerning a career in respiratory care is available from:

American Association for Respiratory Care
11030 Ables Ln.
Dallas, TX 75229-4593
http://www.aarc.org

For the current list of CoARC-accredited educational programs for respiratory care practitioners, write to:

Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care
1248 Harwood Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021-4244
http://www.coarc.com

Information on gaining credentials in respiratory care and a list of State licensing agencies can be obtained from:

The National Board for Respiratory Care, Inc.
8310 Nieman Rd.
Lenexa, KS 66214-1579
http://www.nbrc.org

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Knowledge

%	Subject	Description
83.25	Customer and Personal Service	Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
82.25	Medicine and Dentistry	Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
72.50	English Language	Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
67.75	Education and Training	Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
60.50	Psychology	Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
56.25	Biology	Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
55.75	Computers and Electronics	Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
52.50	Chemistry	Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
51.75	Mathematics	Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Skills

%	Subject	Description
72.00	Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
72.00	Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
72.00	Monitoring	Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
68.75	Speaking	Talking to others to convey information effectively.
65.50	Reading Comprehension	Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
65.50	Active Learning	Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
65.50	Social Perceptiveness	Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
65.50	Service Orientation	Actively looking for ways to help people.
59.50	Coordination	Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
59.50	Complex Problem Solving	Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
59.50	Judgment and Decision Making	Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
56.25	Instructing	Teaching others how to do something.
53.00	Writing	Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
53.00	Learning Strategies	Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
53.00	Time Management	Managing one's own time and the time of others.
50.00	Operations Monitoring	Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
50.00	Science	Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
50.00	Quality Control Analysis	Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Abilities

%	Subject	Description
75.00	Problem Sensitivity	The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
75.00	Oral Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
75.00	Inductive Reasoning	The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
72.00	Oral Comprehension	The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
72.00	Deductive Reasoning	The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
72.00	Information Ordering	The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
68.75	Written Comprehension	The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
68.75	Near Vision	The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
62.50	Written Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
62.50	Speech Clarity	The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
56.25	Perceptual Speed	The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
56.25	Speech Recognition	The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
53.00	Selective Attention	The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53.00	Manual Dexterity	The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
53.00	Finger Dexterity	The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
50.00	Category Flexibility	The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50.00	Multilimb Coordination	The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
50.00	Flexibility of Closure	The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50.00	Arm-Hand Steadiness	The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
50.00	Control Precision	The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
50.00	Far Vision	The ability to see details at a distance.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Work Activities

%	Subject	Description
89.75	Documenting/Recording Information	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
88.00	Assisting and Caring for Others	Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
86.75	Getting Information	Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
85.50	Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
80.00	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
79.50	Making Decisions and Solving Problems	Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
79.00	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
76.50	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
75.75	Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
73.75	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
73.75	Analyzing Data or Information	Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
72.75	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
71.75	Controlling Machines and Processes	Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
71.50	Processing Information	Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
70.75	Handling and Moving Objects	Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
69.75	Working with Computers	Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
69.00	Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
66.25	Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
64.50	Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
63.25	Performing General Physical Activities	Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
59.75	Training and Teaching Others	Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
58.75	Coaching and Developing Others	Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
57.75	Developing and Building Teams	Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
55.25	Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
55.00	Developing Objectives and Strategies	Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
54.75	Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People	Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
53.50	Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
52.75	Scheduling Work and Activities	Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
52.25	Providing Consultation and Advice to Others	Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
51.25	Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
50.25	Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Work Styles

%	Subject	Description
96.50	Cooperation	Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
96.00	Concern for Others	Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
95.25	Attention to Detail	Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
94.50	Dependability	Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
94.00	Integrity	Job requires being honest and ethical.
93.25	Stress Tolerance	Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
92.75	Self-Control	Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
87.75	Adaptability/Flexibility	Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
86.25	Analytical Thinking	Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
86.00	Independence	Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
81.75	Initiative	Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
78.00	Persistence	Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
78.00	Social Orientation	Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
77.25	Leadership	Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
73.00	Achievement/Effort	Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
70.50	Innovation	Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Work Values

%	Subject	Description
83.33	Relationships	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
77.83	Support	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
61.17	Recognition	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
58.33	Working Conditions	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
55.50	Achievement	Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
50.00	Independence	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Work Context

%	Subject	Description
98.60	Telephone	How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
98.20	Face-to-Face Discussions	How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
98.00	Exposed to Disease or Infections	How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
97.00	Contact With Others	How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
95.80	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
94.60	Physical Proximity	To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
93.20	Frequency of Decision Making	How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
92.80	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate	How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
91.00	Work With Work Group or Team	How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
90.40	Consequence of Error	How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
88.00	Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results	What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer?
85.60	Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets	How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
84.80	Deal With External Customers	How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
82.80	Electronic Mail	How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
81.80	Time Pressure	How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
80.80	Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls	How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
79.80	Spend Time Walking and Running	How much does this job require walking and running?
79.80	Spend Time Standing	How much does this job require standing?
79.20	Structured versus Unstructured Work	To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
79.00	Coordinate or Lead Others	How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
77.80	Freedom to Make Decisions	How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
75.80	Responsible for Others' Health and Safety	How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
74.80	Exposed to Contaminants	How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
72.60	Importance of Repeating Same Tasks	How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
70.00	Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People	How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
68.00	Frequency of Conflict Situations	How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
64.60	Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions	How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
64.20	Exposed to Radiation	How often does this job require exposure to radiation?
62.00	Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection	How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
61.40	Letters and Memos	How often does the job require written letters and memos?
61.40	Responsibility for Outcomes and Results	How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
59.20	Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body	How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
58.40	Level of Competition	To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
57.20	Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable	How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
56.20	Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions	How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
56.00	Exposed to Hazardous Conditions	How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Overall Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Job Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Examples
- These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Earnings Benefits*

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
United States	$59,180.00	$77,960.00	$88,820.00
Virginia	$59,440.00	$76,230.00	$83,260.00

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
Alexandria/Arlington	$78,410.00	$88,150.00	$99,710.00
Bay Consortium	$58,770.00	$80,950.00	$85,440.00
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	$62,670.00	$76,230.00	$81,990.00
Central VA/Region2000	$57,450.00	$65,980.00	$72,980.00
Crater Area	$61,820.00	$69,760.00	$79,370.00
Greater Peninsula	No Data	No Data	No Data
Hampton Roads	$61,580.00	$71,550.00	$78,680.00
New River/Mt. Rogers	$53,820.00	$64,940.00	$71,440.00
Northern Virginia	$72,960.00	$91,940.00	$98,810.00
Piedmont Workforce	$63,320.00	$80,550.00	$83,400.00
Shenandoah Valley	$63,100.00	$75,320.00	$78,630.00
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	$49,100.00	$60,840.00	$67,910.00
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	$58,880.00	$73,770.00	$78,130.00

* Earnings Calculations:

Regional Earnings:
   Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
   Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.

National and State Earnings:
   Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
   Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Employment Projections

USA: 2023-2033

Virginia: 2022-2032

Regions: 2020-2030

	Current	Projected	% Change
United States	133,900	151,400	+13.1%
Virginia	2,629	2,826	+7.5%

Region	Current*	Projected	% Change
Alexandria/Arlington	No Data	No Data	No Data
Bay Consortium	90	119	+32.2%
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	427	443	+3.7%
Central VA/Region2000	112	99	-11.6%
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	156	176	+12.8%
Hampton Roads	447	499	+11.6%
New River/Mt. Rogers	No Data	No Data	No Data
Northern Virginia	438	415	-5.3%
Piedmont Workforce	183	217	+18.6%
Shenandoah Valley	144	177	+22.9%
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	127	140	+10.2%
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	322	349	+8.4%

* - Estimated

The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Related Occupations

The related occupations here have similar general capabilities and interests; career explorers may also be interested in the related occupations:

Careers in Therapeutic Services Pathway:

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

View Videos

CareerOneStop Video

View Video & Transcript on CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop Health Science Videos
Overview
Occupations

The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; CareerOneStop. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Proficiency Ratings

These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency	Rating
Documenting/Recording Information	4.5
Assisting and Caring for Others	4.5
Getting Information	4.5
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials	4.5
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	4.0
Making Decisions and Solving Problems	4.0
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	4.0
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	4.0
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	4.0
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	4.0
Analyzing Data or Information	4.0
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	4.0
Controlling Machines and Processes	4.0
Processing Information	4.0
Handling and Moving Objects	4.0
Working with Computers	4.0
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	4.0
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	3.5
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	3.5
Performing General Physical Activities	3.5
Training and Teaching Others	3.5
Coaching and Developing Others	3.5
Developing and Building Teams	3.5
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	3.0
Developing Objectives and Strategies	3.0
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People	3.0
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	3.0
Scheduling Work and Activities	3.0
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others	3.0
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	3.0
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	3.0
Thinking Creatively	3.0
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	3.0
Performing Administrative Activities	2.5
Communicating with People Outside the Organization	2.5
Monitoring and Controlling Resources	2.5
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	2.5
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	2.5
Staffing Organizational Units	2.5
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	2.5
Selling or Influencing Others	2.0

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Titles

Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
Certified Respiratory Therapist Technician
Clinical Coordinator of Respiratory Therapy
Director of Cardiopulmonary Services
Inhalation Therapist
Oxygen Therapist
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
Respiratory Therapist (RT)
Respiratory Therapy Director
Sleep Lab Technician
Staff Respiratory Therapist

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)

Respiratory Therapists

Related Schools

Blue Ridge Community College
Central Virginia Community College
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Liberty University
Mountain Empire Community College
Northern Virginia Community College
Radford University
Tidewater Community College

The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet291)