Certified Respiratory Therapist

Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) is a professional designation awarded to respiratory therapists who have successfully passed the entry-level certification examination administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). Respiratory therapists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients with cardiopulmonary disorders. The CRT credential is recognized across the United States as a standard for competency in the field of respiratory care.

Education and Certification Requirements

To become a Certified Respiratory Therapist, an individual must first complete an accredited respiratory therapy education program. These programs, which can lead to an associate or a bachelor's degree, cover a wide range of topics including human anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics, microbiology, pharmacology, and respiratory care procedures.

Following the completion of an accredited program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NBRC's Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination. Achieving a passing score on the TMC Examination at the lower cut score qualifies the individual to receive the CRT credential. Some states in the U.S. also require licensure to practice, which often includes holding the CRT credential as a minimum standard.

Scope of Practice

Certified Respiratory Therapists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, specialized care hospitals, and physicians' offices. They are involved in a broad range of respiratory care services such as:

• Conducting assessments and diagnostic testing to evaluate the respiratory status of patients
• Implementing and monitoring treatment plans and therapeutic interventions
• Managing ventilators and artificial airway devices for patients who cannot breathe normally on their own
• Educating patients and families about lung health and disease management

CRTs play a critical role in the care of patients with chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as acute conditions such as pneumonia, respiratory distress syndrome, and during emergency care situations.

Advancement and Specialization

After obtaining the CRT credential, respiratory therapists may choose to pursue further specialization and advanced certifications offered by the NBRC, such as the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential. Specializations within the field of respiratory care include but are not limited to adult critical care, neonatal-pediatric care, sleep medicine, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Professional Organizations

Several professional organizations support respiratory therapists in their career development and advocacy for the profession. These include the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), which provides continuing education, professional development resources, and advocacy for respiratory therapists.

Conclusion

The Certified Respiratory Therapist credential signifies a foundational level of knowledge and competency in the field of respiratory care. It is the first step in a career path that offers opportunities for specialization, advancement, and the satisfaction of making a significant impact on patient health and well-being.