A Day in the Life of a Traveling Respiratory Therapist
March 21, 2024
Taking on a career as a Traveling Respiratory Therapist (RRT) opens up a world where those who love to travel get to combine that with a profession that impacts people’s lives. Here’s a closer look at what a day might hold for a Travel RRT, from the critical care they provide to the adventures that await after clocking out.
Morning: The Start of a Fulfilling Day
A Traveling Respiratory Therapist begins their day early, often starting with a quick team briefing to discuss patient needs and schedules. The morning might be filled with assessing patients’ respiratory needs, administering treatments, and ensuring ventilators and other life-support equipment function correctly. This role requires a high level of expertise and adaptability, as Travel RRTs must quickly adjust to different hospital protocols and patient demographics to provide proper care.
Afternoon: Diverse Patient Care
As the day progresses, Travel RRTs continue to provide essential care, working closely with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement different care plans. Their afternoons can include teaching patients and families about managing respiratory illnesses, adjusting treatment plans based on patient responses, and documenting patient progress. The diverse units and patient cases enhance their skills and experience, making each day a new learning opportunity.
Evening: Exploring New Locations
After a rewarding day of helping patients live better lives, Travel RRTs have the unique opportunity to explore their temporary homes. Whether it’s trying local cuisines, visiting popular destinations, or simply enjoying a relaxing walk in a new city, the evening offers a well-deserved break and the chance to enjoy the personal benefits of travel. This work-life balance is a key attraction for many in this profession, providing experiences far beyond what a typical job can offer.
Why Become A Travel Respiratory Therapist
Choosing to become a Travel Respiratory Therapist is about taking advantage of a career option that offers both unique challenges and rewards. It’s a path for those who seek variety in their work, continuous professional growth, and the joy of traveling the world. Beyond the roles involved with travel RT jobs, it’s about collecting experiences, meeting new people, and growing as a person.
How to Become a Travel Respiratory Therapist
Becoming a Travel Respiratory Therapist is an adventure that begins with a solid educational foundation. Here at St. Augustine College, we offer an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Respiratory Therapy that prepares you for the dynamic field of respiratory care and sets the stage for an adventurous life outside of work.
Step 1: Obtain Your Degree
The first step towards becoming a Travel RRT is to obtain an education in respiratory therapy. Our Associate of Applied Science Degree in Respiratory Therapy is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to excel in this field. Our curriculum covers all aspects of respiratory care, from basic sciences and patient assessment to advanced therapeutic procedures and critical care.
Our bilingual Respiratory Therapy program will help set you apart as this is a highly sought-after skill for Travel Respiratory Therapists. Bilingual Travel RRTs are uniquely prepared to meet the needs of diverse communities and can offer effective care to a broader array of patients.
Step 2: Certification and Licensure
Upon completing your degree, the next step is to pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) certification exam to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). Certification is proof of your expertise and a requirement for practicing in the field. Additionally, you’ll need to obtain licensure in the states where you wish to work, a process we prepare you for through our program.
Step 3: Gain Experience
While some travel positions require at least a year of experience, starting your career doesn’t mean putting your travel dreams on hold. Gaining experience in various respiratory care settings can enrich your resume and prepare you for the unique challenges and opportunities of travel positions. Our program includes clinical rotations that offer a glimpse into different healthcare environments, laying the groundwork for a successful career.
Step 4: Embrace the Adventure
With your degree, certification, and initial experience, you’re ready to explore different Travel Respiratory Therapist jobs. This career path offers the freedom to work in diverse settings, from busy city hospitals to quieter rural communities, and the chance to make a significant impact on patients’ lives across the country.
Embark on Your Journey with St. Augustine College
If the adventurous lifestyle of a Traveling Respiratory Therapist excites you, St. Augustine College is ready to set you on this path. Our Associate of Applied Science Degree in Respiratory Therapy helps you create a path that leads to professional success and personal fulfillment. Our focus on excellence, hands-on experience, and nurturing cultural competence in healthcare sets our graduates apart.
Embrace the unique lifestyle of a Travel Respiratory Therapist with a solid foundation of education and support from St. Augustine College. Learn how our program can launch your career and prepare you for the adventures that await in the world of travel respiratory therapy.
