Respiratory Technicians

Respiratory technicians have many of the same responsibilities as therapists; however, technicians do not supervise other respiratory care workers. They help respiratory therapists in evaluating, treating, an caring for deficiencies or abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary (heart/lung) system by either providing temporary relief from chronic ailments or administering emergency care where life is threatened.

Working under a physician's direction and the direction of respiratory therapists, these workers set up and operate respirators, mechanical ventilators, and other devices. They monitor the functioning of the equipment and the patients' response to the therapy and maintain the patient's charts. They also assist patients with breathing exercises, and inspect, test, and order repairs for respiratory therapy equipment. Approximately 135,800 respiratory therapy workers are employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $75,000

Minimum Education Level

Associate's Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Much Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Outgoing

Social

Technical

Career Ladder

Senior Respiratory Technician, Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Technician

Respiratory Assistant