toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Respiratory therapist (RT)

Respiratory therapist (RT)

Respiratory therapists (RTs) are health professionals who evaluate, treat, and care for people who have breathing problems. Respiratory therapists use oxygen, medicines, and mechanical measures such as chest percussion to help people breathe more effectively.

Most respiratory therapists work under the direct supervision of a doctor. Respiratory therapists treat people of all ages, from premature babies with undeveloped lungs to older adults with respiratory disease. Most respiratory therapists work in hospitals. But some work in nursing homes and doctor's offices.

Respiratory therapists can be certified as RTs after they complete a college-level, accredited RT program. The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) offers voluntary certification and registration to graduates of accredited programs. Two credentials are awarded to respiratory therapists who satisfy the requirements: registered respiratory therapist (RRT) and certified respiratory therapist (CRT). Either the CRT or RRT examination is the standard in the states that require licensure.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.