Respiratory Therapists
Military experience in pulmonary testing, blood gas sampling, respiratory therapies, and mechanical ventilation assistance directly overlaps with civilian respiratory care.
How to prepare: Have the intended state's health board and prospective employer assess your existing education, licenses, and credentials against their requirements, including the typical accredited respiratory therapy associate's degree preparation. Licensure is required in every state except Alaska, where national certification is recommended; licensing requirements vary but usually include a state or professional certification exam.
What the civilian work involves
- Monitor patient's physiological responses to therapy, such as vital signs, arterial blood gases, or blood chemistry changes, and consult with physician if adverse reactions occur.
- Set up and operate devices, such as mechanical ventilators, therapeutic gas administration apparatus, environmental control systems, or aerosol generators, following specified parameters of treatment.
- Work as part of a team of physicians, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to manage patient care by assisting with medical procedures or related duties.
Civilian tools and software (examples)
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- MEDITECH software