Is anyone out there a respiratory therapist? How do you like the work? Where do you work, in a hospital, nursing home, etc.?

I’m a RT department director. First off, RT’s don’t work in NH’s. Medicare won’t pay for RT services there, at least not yet. It can be a very rewarding job. The variety of services RT’s do can very greatly depending on the hospital.

I am just starting my schooling for Respiratory care.
In what ways do you feel the career is rewarding? Where do you work-what state? Do RT’S generally have good benefit packages? I’ve heard some hospitals are under staffed which makes the RT’s job very hectic, is this true? Do most RT’S work full time?
Thanks for your input, I appreciate it!

I can’t speak for being a respiratory therapist, however, we’ve had them for our daughter’s care numerous times in the hospital. What I can tell you is that they are normally in charge of many patients because they aren’t at their bedside constantly. In our experience, they play a very vital role and almost all have been very gentle and compassionate with our daughter. It has helped put us at ease when we’ve had to be in the hospital. It’s scary watching your child on a ventilator, but having someone explain the beeps and why they are doing what they are doing is super important. I think it would be a very rewarding field if you want to help others and enjoy being in a medical environment. Sometimes when they had to suction her I thought it was a bit gross, but if you can handle that, then go for it. Good luck!

I’m a retired respiratory therapist/college professor/dept manager. After 45 years’ I can say I miss ER, ICU, and Trauma. I live vicariously through shows like Miami Medical. I trained in Miami’s Jackson Memorial Hospital (which seems to be where this show takes place) in 1961. The 1400-bed county hospital was exciting and scary, but the adrenaline rush makes it hard to be away from. I taught and directed 5 RC programs in 3 states. There is a lot to know and keep in your mind all the time. RC is challenging and rewarding. Get into Critical Care, Neonates or Trauma & you will have a career for life. Reimbursement and short-sighted administrators will cut staff outside these areas, making numbers more important than patient care. Too bad physicians don’t make these decisions anymore. It has given me and my family a way to see the USA. Good Luck in your career!