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Average
Salary & Job Outlook
Respiratory
therapist median wages (2005)
$38,200 annually
U.S. Minimum Wage
$10,712 Annually
Wages for respiratory therapists are on the incline in the
US. In 2005 the median annual pay rate was $38,200.
Those with higher education and more experience can expect
to earn about $45,140 yearly.
Employment for respiratory therapists is expected to increase
faster than average over the next ten years. A deficit exists
between the number of skilled workers entering the workforce
and the number of jobs available because of the increasing
demand on the medical industry overall. An increase in
aging Americans who suffer from respiratory ailments will drive
demand.
A career in respiratory therapy will not only fill a growing
demand in the healthcare field, but provide flexible scheduling
and great compensation.
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What
is respiratory therapist?
Respiratory therapy is essential for the care of
people suffering from lung disorders.
What do respiratory therapists do?
Respiratory therapists test, treat and provide care
to patients experiencing functioning difficulties
in their lungs. These patients may be suffering from
diseases like cystic fibrosis, a chronic problem
like asthma or an emergency problem like smoke inhalation.
Main responsibilities for respiratory therapy include:
- Evaluating patients
- Taking medical histories
- Administering blood tests
- Maintaining ventilators
- Taking lung capacity tests
- Using chest therapy
- Advising medications
- Providing forms of oxygen
A career as a respiratory therapist is one of the
specialty job opportunities in the medical field. This
job offers a great salary and very flexible hours. This
career is a great choice for people who like to
give direct patient care.
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