How to Become a Respiratory Therapist in Wisconsin – WI

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: January, 8 2010

The expertise of a respiratory therapist is in high demand for this life-saving role.  In a study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics there was a 19% increase in demand predicted over a period of ten years.  An effective RT needs to have strong sense of compassion and be able to communicate well along with their expertise.  They also need to a good multi-tasker and able to prioritize needs depending on the immediate crises. 

Becoming a Respiratory Therapist in Wisconsin

When considering becoming an RT in Wisconsin the first thing to be knowledgeable of are the specifics of Wisconsin respiratory therapist careers, and how best to prepare for them.  Observing an RT at work is the most effectiveinsight into what this career is like and what it requires. There are many areas to work in respiratory therapy and this experience would help you determine your preferences.  A few of these areas are neo-natal, sleep disorders, asthma, or chronic pulmonary disorders.  Work schedules can vary greatly from 8 to12 hour shifts over a 3 day period, usually in hospitals, to a more standard 8 hour work day in most laboratories.

With an idea of the area where you would like to be involved look over the accredited respiratory therapy degree programs and select the one you feel meet your interests and needs.

During this degree program it is important to gain as many clinical hours of experience as you can. Competency and experience are important in applying for jobs as your hands-on clinical hours will demonstrate.

When you have graduated from the degree program, you apply to take and successfully pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam. 

Now you are ready to apply for a Wisconsin state license.  Certain documentation may be required for specializations. 

With these things listed above accomplished you can now go job-seeking to find a respiratory therapy position in your area of interest.

The largest hirers of RTs are hospitals for general care and surgery.  Specialty hospitals in the areas of drug abuse and mental health are the next largest.  Respiratory therapists make a national average annual salary of $56,222.