What to Expect From a Respiratory Therapist Program at Platt College

Enrolling in a respiratory therapist program is a life-changing decision that opens the door to a highly respected, hands-on healthcare career.

From my experience shadowing a respiratory therapist during my cousin’s NICU stay, I saw just how critical these professionals are to patient recovery — whether it’s newborns, trauma cases, or elderly patients managing COPD.

What impressed me most wasn’t just the machines or treatments.

It was how they communicated, calmed nerves, and jumped into action when someone’s breath, quite literally, was on the line.

If you’re thinking about joining this field, you’re probably wondering — what’s the journey like?

Here’s what to expect when you dive into a respiratory therapist program.

Let’s break it down so you know what you’re getting into.

The Foundation: Science, Anatomy, and Physiology

It all starts with the basics.

Expect to spend the early part of the program knee-deep in anatomy, chemistry, biology, and medical terminology.

Understanding how the respiratory and cardiovascular systems interact is crucial.

I remember one classmate from a clinical rotation telling me how surprised she was by how much physics was involved — airflow dynamics, pressure-volume relationships, oxygen transport.

It’s not just about lungs; it’s about the whole body.

And yes, you’ll learn how to interpret arterial blood gases (ABGs) like a pro — a skill every respiratory therapist needs under their belt.

Real-World Clinical Training

This part is where it gets real.

You’ll move beyond the textbooks and step into hospitals, clinics, and emergency rooms.

From managing ventilators to assisting with bronchoscopies, students gain exposure to real patients early on.

During one clinical placement, a student I spoke to helped set up life-support equipment for a premature baby.

That day, she said, cemented her calling in this field.

The situations you face during clinicals are intense — but they’re also incredibly rewarding.

You’ll practice CPR, deliver aerosol medications, and work in high-pressure scenarios that require clear thinking and fast hands.

The Technology Side of Respiratory Care

Modern respiratory care is high-tech.

You’ll train on ventilators, pulse oximeters, CPAP/BiPAP machines, and even portable oxygen delivery systems.

In one hands-on lab session, students compared various ventilator modes on simulators that mimic real-life respiratory distress patterns.

These labs simulate ICU settings, prepping you for what you’ll face on the job.

Technology in this field evolves quickly, and your training keeps you one step ahead.

Specialized Skills and Critical Thinking

This isn’t a field for someone who just memorizes and repeats.

Respiratory therapists are often the first responders during code blues and trauma calls.

You’ll need to assess situations, make decisions quickly, and collaborate with physicians, nurses, and paramedics.

You’ll also specialize in procedures like intubation assistance, pulmonary function testing, and managing long-term oxygen therapy for chronic illness.

A former student I know shared how she once spotted subtle breathing changes in a patient post-op — turns out, it was the early sign of pneumonia.

That kind of vigilance only comes from the detailed training and real-life repetition that’s baked into the program.

Understanding Diverse Patient Populations

One day you might be helping an athlete with exercise-induced asthma.

The next, a senior with emphysema who’s struggling to walk to the bathroom.

You’ll learn how to tailor treatment plans to each case — emotionally, medically, and culturally.

During community outreach events, students often assist in screenings and education programs for underserved populations.

This helps build soft skills — communication, empathy, adaptability — which are just as vital as knowing how to manage airways.

Career Support and Licensing Prep

Your instructors won’t just teach — they mentor.

They guide you toward passing the NBRC credentialing exams like the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

Mock tests, review sessions, and peer tutoring play a huge role.

Plus, you’ll get help building a professional resume, practicing interview skills, and even networking with hospital recruiters.

One graduate landed a role in neonatal intensive care just two weeks after her final board exam — she credits it all to the program’s built-in career guidance.

Flexibility for Modern Students

The respiratory therapist program structure recognizes that many students juggle jobs, families, or other responsibilities.

That’s why there are distance learning options and hybrid formats, allowing you to study some coursework online while completing clinical training on-site.

This flexibility allows you to earn your degree without putting your life on hold.

Many working adults and parents find this setup makes pursuing their dream a realistic goal — not a sacrifice.

A Field with High Demand and Purpose

Respiratory therapy is more than a job — it’s purpose-driven.

You’ll find yourself in demand in ICUs, ERs, outpatient rehab centers, sleep labs, and home healthcare settings.

With respiratory illnesses on the rise, especially post-pandemic, the need for skilled professionals has never been higher.

But it’s not just about employment.

There’s a unique kind of fulfillment in helping someone take their first full breath after struggling for air.

That feeling never gets old — and it’s what keeps therapists passionate about their work.

Final Thoughts

Stepping into this profession means committing to intense training, personal growth, and a fast-paced clinical environment.

But it also means becoming a lifeline to patients every single day.

Whether you’re responding to emergencies, managing chronic illnesses, or helping someone recover post-surgery — you’re making a real difference.

If you’re ready to explore more about what this field can offer, take a deeper look into this respiratory therapist program.

It might just be the breath of fresh air your career needs.