Continuing Education Options for Respiratory Therapists

As the field of respiratory care continues to evolve, so must the skills and knowledge of Respiratory Therapists (RTs). Continuing education (CE) plays a critical role in helping RTs stay current with the latest advancements in respiratory therapy, enhance their clinical skills, and maintain licensure. There are a variety of continuing education options available to Respiratory Therapists, from certifications and specialized courses to professional workshops and online learning platforms.

1. National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Recertification

For Respiratory Therapists looking to maintain their board certification, the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) offers a recertification process that requires the completion of Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Recertification helps ensure that RTs remain proficient in the latest treatment methods and clinical practices. The NBRC recertification process includes:

• Completing a set number of CEUs within a specified period (typically every five years)
• Staying updated on the latest respiratory care guidelines, research, and technologies
• Renewing certification by passing exams, if necessary, depending on the certification type

By fulfilling these requirements, Respiratory Therapists demonstrate their ongoing commitment to professional excellence and patient care.

2. Specialty Certifications

Specialty certifications allow Respiratory Therapists to deepen their expertise in specific areas of respiratory care. These certifications often require additional coursework, exams, and practical experience. Some common specialty certifications include:

• Neonatal-Pediatric Specialist (NPS): This certification is ideal for RTs working with infants and children, focusing on respiratory care specific to neonatal and pediatric patients.
• Adult Critical Care Specialist (ACCS): This certification is designed for RTs working in intensive care units (ICUs) and emergency settings, focusing on advanced skills required for critical respiratory care.
• Pulmonary Function Technologist (PFT): This certification is aimed at RTs involved in conducting pulmonary function tests and interpreting diagnostic respiratory tests.

Specialty certifications enhance clinical skills, increase professional credibility, and open up more career opportunities in specific areas of respiratory therapy.

3. Online Learning Platforms and Webinars

Online learning platforms offer flexibility for Respiratory Therapists to complete their continuing education requirements at their own pace. Several websites and organizations offer a variety of courses, webinars, and online workshops, including:

• American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC): AARC provides a wide range of online courses, webinars, and live events covering topics such as new technologies, evidence-based practices, and regulatory updates in respiratory care.
• Respiratory Therapy Continuing Education (RTCE): This platform offers numerous online courses that are accredited for CEUs, covering various topics relevant to respiratory therapy.
• University Online Courses: Many universities now offer online programs for Respiratory Therapists looking to expand their knowledge in areas such as pulmonary rehabilitation, sleep disorders, and advanced respiratory therapy techniques.

Online courses allow Respiratory Therapists to learn at their own pace, making it easier to balance education with work responsibilities.

4. Workshops and Conferences

Attending professional workshops and conferences is a valuable way for Respiratory Therapists to gain hands-on experience and network with peers in the field. Some of the most notable events include:

• American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) Congress: This is an annual event that features hundreds of sessions on the latest research, technology, and clinical practices in respiratory care. It is one of the largest gatherings for respiratory professionals.
• National Conference on Pulmonary Diseases: This conference focuses on respiratory diseases and their management, providing in-depth training on topics such as asthma, COPD, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Workshops on Advanced Respiratory Therapies: These workshops focus on specific respiratory techniques, such as mechanical ventilation, sleep therapy, and pulmonary function testing.

Workshops and conferences allow RTs to learn from experts, participate in hands-on training, and stay current on the latest respiratory care practices.

5. In-Service Training and Employer-Sponsored CEUs

Many hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities offer in-service training for their staff to help them stay up-to-date on new treatments, equipment, and procedures. Respiratory Therapists can benefit from:

• Employer-sponsored CEUs that count toward licensure renewal and certification maintenance
• In-house training on specific equipment, techniques, or institutional protocols
• Opportunities for mentorship and shadowing more experienced RTs

In-service training can be a convenient and cost-effective way for Respiratory Therapists to fulfill their continuing education requirements while enhancing their skills in the workplace.

6. Research and Publications

Engaging in research or contributing to professional publications can also count as continuing education for Respiratory Therapists. By publishing research findings or reviewing the latest studies, RTs can:

• Stay informed about advancements in respiratory care
• Contribute to the growth of knowledge in the field
• Enhance their professional credibility and recognition in the respiratory care community

Research opportunities may include clinical trials, studies on new therapies, or evaluations of existing respiratory care practices. Publishing in peer-reviewed journals or presenting at conferences can also count toward CEU requirements for licensure renewal.

7. Professional Associations and Networking

Joining professional associations, such as the AARC or state-level respiratory care organizations, provides access to valuable continuing education resources. These associations offer:

• Exclusive access to journals, publications, and research updates in respiratory care
• Opportunities for networking with peers, mentors, and experts in the field
• Discounted rates for conferences, workshops, and online courses

Professional associations are excellent resources for Respiratory Therapists who want to stay connected with the latest trends in respiratory care and continue to develop their skills.

Conclusion

Continuing education is a vital part of maintaining and advancing a career as a Respiratory Therapist. Whether pursuing certifications, attending workshops, taking online courses, or engaging in research, ongoing learning helps ensure that RTs stay informed, improve patient care, and meet licensure requirements. By investing in continuing education, Respiratory Therapists can enhance their skills, expand their career opportunities, and continue to provide high-quality care to patients with respiratory conditions.