Respiratory therapists treat patients with chronic and emergency breathing problems such as obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma among others. These professionals work with other medical practitioners to save lives every day. Many illnesses can cause breathing problems and respiratory therapists play an essential role in regulating patients’ breathing while undergoing treatment. Here are a few reasons why everybody should consider pursuing a career as a respiratory therapist.
1. Saving Lives
The greatest reward for most medical professionals is the opportunity to save lives. Patients in intensive care units and emergency rooms often develop breathing complications. And some end up losing their lives due to respiratory issues rather than the actual illness or disease that led to their hospitalization. Respiratory therapists provide the required medication, ventilators, and airways devices to keep the patients breathing.
2. Different Areas of Specialization
When working as a respiratory therapist, you are not limited to emergency departments or intensive care units. In addition to working in pulmonary, surgical, and medical wards, you can offer neonatal care or become an educator in your community. Additional career paths for respiratory therapists include working in bronchoscopy suites, pulmonary rehabilitation, and respiratory sales. You do not need to choose an area of specialization before enrolling in a degree or diploma program. You can choose the best area after working in different departments and institutions.
3. Competitive Salaries and Allowances
While saving lives may be your top motivation, you must consider your monthly and yearly earnings. You will spend long hours at work and sometimes respond to emergencies on your off-days. The salary range for respiratory therapists varies across states and cities, but they are among the top paid professionals in the healthcare field. In addition to your basic salary and allowances, you can also explore additional sources of income like providing home care.
4. Fast Training
One of the greatest things about becoming a respiratory therapist is the short amount of time it takes to complete your degree. Many healthcare-related programs will require that you get at least a bachelors. The good news is that you can attain an associate degree in two years. And if you live in the Atlanta metro area, there are multiple respiratory therapy programs in Atlanta GA to explore.
Another great thing about working as a respiratory therapist is that you can start working while pursuing higher studies. And you’ll have an opportunity to work and learn from top medical practitioners while handling your responsibilities.
5. You get to Change People’s Lives
As a respiratory therapist, your work extends way beyond medical institutions. You will encounter multiple opportunities to change lives. With your training and experience, you can rescue drowning patients or help patients use medical devices properly at home. Patients with chronic disorders need continuous advice and assistance to live a quality life despite their conditions. In addition, you can participate in voluntary medical programs in your community.
Conclusion
Working as a respiratory therapist can be extremely rewarding because of the multiple opportunities this field has to offer. If you’re up for a challenge and would like to affect people’s lives, then you will have a fulfilling career in this field.
