Respiratory therapists work under the direction of a physician and assist in the evaluation, treatment and care of patients with heart, lung and breathing disorders. These patients range in age from the premature infant to the elderly. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals; however, an increasing number of respiratory therapists are now working in physicians’ offices, specialized care hospitals, medical equipment companies and skilled nursing facilities.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of respiratory therapists is expected to increase 21 percent through the year 2018. Nationally, respiratory therapists earn a median annual salary of $52,200. The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) website can provide additional information on the profession of respiratory care.
