How to Hire a Respiratory Therapist
Build your respiratory care team with this comprehensive hiring guide for healthcare recruiters.
Understanding RT Roles
Respiratory Therapists specialize in cardiopulmonary care, treating patients with breathing disorders, managing ventilators, and providing emergency airway management.
Work settings include hospitals (ICU, NICU, ED), pulmonary rehabilitation, home health, sleep labs, and pulmonary function testing laboratories.
Post-pandemic demand for RTs has surged, with critical shortages in ICU and acute care settings nationwide.
Credentialing Requirements
RTs must graduate from a CoARC-accredited program and pass the NBRC examinations to earn the CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist) credential.
Most employers prefer or require the RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) credential, which requires passing an additional advanced exam.
Specialty credentials like ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialist), NPS (Neonatal/Pediatric Specialist), and SDS (Sleep Disorders Specialist) indicate advanced expertise.
Compensation & Benefits
Entry-level CRTs earn $55,000-$65,000, while experienced RRTs command $70,000-$90,000 depending on setting and location.
ICU and NICU respiratory therapists typically earn premium pay due to specialized skills and high-acuity patient care.
Effective benefits include shift differentials, certification support, tuition assistance, and flexible scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRT and RRT?
CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist) is the entry-level credential. RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) requires passing an additional advanced exam and is preferred by most employers.
How long does it take to hire an RT?
The average time to hire a respiratory therapist is 30-40 days, though ICU positions may take longer due to experience requirements.
What is the average RT salary?
Respiratory therapist salaries average $65,000-$80,000 annually, with ICU specialists earning up to $95,000 in high-demand markets.
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