Associate of Science in Respiratory Care

Respiratory Therapists assist in diagnosing and treating patients with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary illnesses. The work of respiratory therapy extends Practitioners into intensive care with patients on mechanical ventilation. Practitioners assist physicians in treatment ranging from bedside surgical procedures to balloon pump management in the operating room. Therapists treat patients with pulmonary diseases ranging from premature infants with underdeveloped lungs to COPD patients with chronic lung disease. The primary employer for a credentialed Respiratory Therapist is the acute care hospital. This dynamic profession can lead therapists to different specializations such as pulmonary functions testing, pulmonary rehabilitation, polysomnography, medical sales, management, and education.