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.
SOC: 29-1126.00
Common Job Titles
Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)
Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP)
Respiratory Therapist (RT)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign individualized respiratory care plans collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes and ventilator weaning protocols.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate arterial blood gas results and pulmonary function test data in critical care settings to determine appropriate respiratory interventions.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate mechanical ventilators and BiPAP systems following physician protocols while monitoring patient response to therapy.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered care with evidence-based respiratory protocols when managing patients with acute and chronic breathing disorders.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze patient respiratory status and ventilator waveforms using hemodynamic monitoring and pulse oximetry to adjust therapeutic interventions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess patient breathing patterns, lung sounds, and oxygenation status during routine rounds and emergency responses in hospital settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeSupervise respiratory therapy technicians and coordinate care delivery ensuring quality standards and regulatory compliance across multiple patient assignments.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform endotracheal intubation and airway management procedures in emergency and critical care environments under time-sensitive conditions.
Developing
Hands-onAssemble respiratory therapy equipment including nebulizers, oxygen delivery systems, and suction devices ensuring proper calibration and infection control compliance.
Developing
MindsetSupport patients and families experiencing respiratory distress through clear communication and empathetic guidance during treatment procedures.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain respiratory therapy procedures and home oxygen equipment use to patients and caregivers prior to hospital discharge.
Developing
Hands-onPerform bronchoscopy assistance and therapeutic chest physiotherapy following established clinical protocols while maintaining patient safety.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Respiratory Therapists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
136,420
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $61,900. 25th percentile: U.S. $68,410. 50th percentile: U.S. $80,450. 75th percentile: U.S. $95,530. 90th percentile: U.S. $108,820. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$61,900
10% of workers earn the following or more
$108,820
Workers on average earn
$84,260
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.3/5
Medicine and Dentistry4.3/5
English Language3.9/5
Education and Training3.7/5
Psychology3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
