Occupation information for

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.

Currently Employed: 333

Yearly Projected Openings: 10

Typical Hourly Wage: $22.48 - $32.63

Typical Annual Salary: $46,800 - $67,900

• Provide emergency care, such as artificial respiration, external cardiac massage, or assistance with cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
• 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.
• Set up and operate devices such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.
• Enforce safety rules and ensure careful adherence to physicians' orders.
• Explain treatment procedures to patients to gain cooperation and allay fears.
• Relay blood analysis results to a physician.
• Maintain charts that contain patients' pertinent identification and therapy information.
• 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.
• Inspect, clean, test, and maintain respiratory therapy equipment to ensure equipment is functioning safely and efficiently, ordering repairs when necessary.

• Arterial blood gas monitors or accessories
• Flow sensors or regulators or components
• Medical oxygen masks or parts
• Nebulizers or accessories
• Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies

• Calendar and scheduling software
• Data base user interface and query software
• Presentation software
• Spreadsheet software
• Word processing software