Associates Degree in
Respiratory Therapy
Earn your Associates degree in RESPIRATORY THERAPY
Now offered at both Alhambra and Ontario campuses!
Platt College’s Respiratory Therapy program prepares graduates to pursue careers in Respiratory Therapy, a dynamic specialty area in the rapidly-expanding health care field.
Upon successful completion of foundational coursework and a clinical externship, graduates of the program are awarded an Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy and are eligible to take both entry level (CRT) and advanced level (RRT) credentialing exams through the National Board for Respiratory Care.
NOTE: February 1, 2012- Platt College is proud to announce that our initial graduating class of Respiratory Therapy students achieved a 100% pass rate on their CRT examinations. Congratulations to our RT graduates and faculty!
In a typical day as a Respiratory Therapist, you might:
- Assist physicians in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with cardio-pulmonary deficiencies and abnormalities
- Measure critical lung functions
- Monitor heart functions
- Treat newborns, trauma victims, drowning victims, and patients suffering from asthma, bronchitis, coronary heart disease, emphysema, and pneumonia.
Platt College Ontario’s program director Robert Wandel has been practicing and teaching in the Respiratory Therapy field for over 30 years.
Platt College Alhambra's program director Marlyn Haber has been practicing and teaching in the Respiratory Therapy field for over 25 years.
The knowledge, skills and physical abilities required to safely and efficiently practice respiratory care is complex. A Respiratory Care Practitioner must possess the following abilities in order to safely practice in the field of Respiratory Therapy. Successful program completion is, in part, dependent upon the students' ability to meet the physical, cognitive and behavioral demands represented by these standards. We ask that you review these standards when making your decision to become a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
Physical Standards
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Hear verbal instructions. gas flow through equipment and distinguish warning signals
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Lift/carry equipment and assist in moving and repositioning patients
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Manual and finger dexterity sufficient to feel to palpate pulses, arteries for puncture and skin temperature; manipulate and grasp small and large equipment; manipulate knobs and dials; assemble/disassemble various medical equipment
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Push/pull large wheeled equipment, such as mechanical ventilators which may weigh in excess of 200 lbs.
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Kneel to adjust equipment
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Crouch/kneel/stoop to adjust, equipment, locate and plug in electrical equipment or perform CPR
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Walk on hard surfaces for extended periods of time to all areas of a hospital
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Stand for prolonged periods of time to delivery therapy, check equipment or perform CPR
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Bend
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Read gauges, dial settings, digital and analog displays; read and understand in English typed, handwritten, and computer information; Read and understand written policies and protocols, and patient medical records
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See patient conditions such as skin color, work of breathing, and mist flowing through the tubing
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Speak clearly and effectively in English in order to communicate goals/ procedures to patients and staff
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Write in English to record patient history or other pertinent information
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Input information on computer
Cognitive & Behavioral Standards
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Accept and apply constructive criticism
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Adhere to institutional and programmatic policies
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Apply theory to clinical practice Exhibit the social skills necessary to interact professionally, respectfully and effectively with patients, families, supervisors, and co-workers of the same or different cultures as a health care team member Maintain personal hygiene consistent with close personal contact associated with patient care
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Calculate, analyze, interpret and record numbers and physical data accurately Demonstrate self-direction and independent responsibility
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Display attitudes/actions consistent with the ethical standards of the profession Display empathy for patients
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Exhibit social skills necessary to interact effectively with patients, families, supervisors, and co-workers of the same or different cultures such as respect, politeness, tact, collaboration, teamwork, discretion
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Carry out verbal and written instructions independently without critical errors and in a timely manner
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Physical tolerance to a clinical environment that may include noisy conditions, crowded conditions, sterile surroundings, exposure to blood-borne pathogens, and exposure to chemicals/solvents
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Function safely, effectively, and calmly under stressful situations
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Maintain composure while managing multiple tasks simultaneously
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Maintain personal hygiene consistent with close personal contact associated with patient care
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Prioritize effectively and maintain composure while managing multiple tasks
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Work in a positive, constructive manner with peers, coworkers, patients and instructors
Respiratory Therapy Passage Rates Statement
Platt College launched its Respiratory Therapy Program in July 2009. The first cohort began in August 2010 and is scheduled to graduate January 17, 2012. After that date, graduating students will be eligible to sit for the Respiratory Therapy Licensing Exams including the CRT and RRT examinations.
Serving Southern California for over 25 years
Serving the Greater Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas for over 25 years, Platt College’s School of Medical Sciences offers degree programs to train graduates to meet today’s health care needs. Programs include: Respiratory Therapy, Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound), Medical Assisting, Medical Administrative Specialist, Health Care Leadership.
Platt College is accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
- Full-time Career Services staff
- Financial aid is available for qualified individuals
- Accessible campus locations with onsite free parking
- Morning and evening class schedules
For required program disclosure information please visit: www.plattcollege.edu/consumerinfo
Looking for something different?
Check out Platt College’s School of Graphic Design and School of Legal Studies for more exciting career options!