Respiratory therapy is an allied medical specialty concerned with the evaluation and treatment of patients who have cardiopulmonary problems. Therapists are in demand in hospitals and hospital-related organizations to provide direct patient care to those with acute and chronic problems. The field of respiratory therapy is rapidly growing. Such areas as research, teaching management, rehabilitation, neonatal and pediatric care, critical care, and diagnostics all offer the respiratory therapist opportunities for professional growth and personal satisfaction. Training involves formal class work and clinical experience.
Clinical training is in hospitals where students are involved in various patient care settings.
Availability of positions fluctuates with location and economic trends. The need for therapists continues to be strong. To meet minimum of 48 quarter units entry requirement. COMM 105 is highly recommended. The applicant is advised to contact the chair of the LLU Department of Respiratory Therapy early in the fall quarter of the freshman year.