Respiratory Therapist (RT) in Columbia, MO
Salary data, training programs, and job outlook for Columbia-area Respiratory Therapist (RT)s
💰 Columbia Area Salary
Salaries vary by employer, experience, and certifications. Columbia figures based on regional BLS data and cost-of-living adjustments.
📋 About Respiratory Therapist (RT) Work in Columbia
RTs manage life-support ventilators in ICUs, treat asthma and COPD patients, and run pulmonary function labs. During COVID-19, they were the last line of defense for critically ill patients. Essential, respected, and well-paid.
What You Do Day-to-Day
- Manage mechanical ventilators for ICU patients
- Administer bronchodilator treatments
- Perform arterial blood gas analysis
- Conduct pulmonary function testing
- Assist with intubations in emergencies
🎓 Training Programs Near Columbia
Browse all Missouri schools offering Respiratory Therapist (RT) programs.
📈 Job Outlook
National Growth: 13% (Much faster than average)
National Jobs: 139K employed nationwide
Credential Required: RRT or CRT (NBRC)
Typical Program: AAS in Respiratory Care — 2 years