Respiratory Therapy

Current Students

Program Information

Profession Information

Occupational Outlook

The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $61,330 in May 2019. Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 21 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth in the middle-aged and older population will lead to an increased incidence of respiratory conditions such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other disorders that can permanently damage the lungs or restrict lung function.

The aging population will in turn lead to an increased demand for respiratory therapy services and treatments, mostly in hospitals. Other conditions affecting the general population, such as respiratory problems due to smoking and air pollution, along with respiratory emergencies, will continue to create demand for respiratory therapists.

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What Does It Take?

  • Compassion. Respiratory therapists should be able to provide emotional support to patients undergoing treatment and be sympathetic to their needs.
  • Detail oriented. Respiratory therapists must be detail oriented to ensure that patients are receiving the appropriate treatments and medications in a timely manner. They must also monitor and record various pieces of information related to patient care.
  • Interpersonal skills. Respiratory therapists interact with patients and often work as part of a team. They must be able to follow instructions from a supervising physician.
  • Patience. Respiratory therapists may work for long periods with patients who need special attention.
  • Problem-solving skills. Respiratory therapists need strong problem-solving skills. They must evaluate patients’ symptoms, consult with other healthcare professionals, and recommend and administer the appropriate treatments.
  • Science and math skills. Respiratory therapists must understand anatomy, physiology, and other sciences and be able to calculate the right dose of a patient’s medicine.
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NBRC

The mission of the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is promoting excellence in respiratory care by awarding credentials based on high competency standards. NBRC credentials provide recognition for hard work and dedication to quality.

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AARC

The American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) is the leading national and international professional association for respiratory care. The AARC encourages and promotes professional excellence, advances the science and practice of respiratory care, and serves as an advocate for patients and their families, the public, the profession and the respiratory therapist.

Join AARC

Lambda Beta Society

The National Honor Society for the Profession of Respiratory Care was formed to promote, recognize and honor scholarship, scholarly achievement, service, and character of students, graduates, and faculty members of the profession. The name of the society is based on the goals of the Respiratory Care profession: sustaining “life and breath” for all mankind. Lambda (Λ) is the Greek letter “L”, and beta (Β) is the Greek letter “B”.

Join Lambda Beta

American Association for Respiratory Care Statement of Ethics and Professional Conduct

In the conduct of professional activities the Respiratory Therapist shall be bound by the following ethical and professional principles.

AARC Statement of Ethics

Contact

Jessica Robinson

Program Director

Email: Jessica.Robinson@utahtech.edu

Phone: 435-879-4962

Office: Taylor 255

Kat Preiss

Academic Advisor

Email: Kat.Preiss@utahtech.edu

Phone: 435-652-7695

Office: HPC 347

Katie Reeves

Administrative Assistant

Email: hdandt@utahtech.edu

Phone: 435-879-4820

Office: Taylor 258