Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists evaluate, treat, and care for clients with breathing disorders
28%
71%
1%
National data for respiratory therapists (SOC 29-1126).
$35,820
$47,640
$60,230
$17.22
$22.91
$28.96
Based on Nebraska Wage Figures

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Complete a respiratory therapy program
  • Pass exams to become certified

    • Hours

  • May work part time or full time, but most work 40 hours a week.
  • May be required to work evenings, nights, or weekends.
    • RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS will:
  • Care for infants whose lungs are not fully developed or for elderly people whose lungs are diseased.
  • Teach clients how to inhale properly so the medicine is most effective.
    • RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS frequently:
  • Operate many different devices to treat clients.
  • Perform chest physiotherapy to remove mucus from clients' lungs.
  • Are exposed to diseases or infections on a daily basis.
    • It is important that RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS be able to:
  • Be sure their work is exact. Errors could seriously endanger the health of their patients.
  • Deal with people daily who are unpleasant or discourteous due to their illnesses.
    • Congratulations! You have enough education to select this career. Choose an option on the right.