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RESPIRATORY THERAPY

Respiratory Therapists care for patients who have lung diseases or disorders that effect breathing. An associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree along with passing a certification exam is required.  Some on-the-job training may be required with each specialty.  A few careers respiratory therapists may pursue include:

 

ACUTE CARE

Provides care for patients’ short-term needs

 

EMERGENCY

Cares for patients with illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention

 

CRITICAL CARE

Treats patients with potential life-threatening conditions

 

HOME CARE

Cares for patients with needs requiring them to stay at home

 

PEDIATRIC & NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE

Treats infants and children with potentially life-threatening conditions

 

SLEEP CARE

Provides respiratory treatment for patients

 

PULMONARY CARE

Performs respiratory tests to check patients for lung disease or breathing disorders

 

PULMONARY REHAB

Develops and executes breathing therapy plans for respiratory patients

 

ECMO

Provides heart and lung therapies to patients connected to an ECMO machine

Pikeville Medical Center