ENLISTED

RESPIRATORY CARE PRACTITIONER

CARING FOR LUNGS AND HEARTS

Caring for Airmen and their families requires the knowledge and skills of thousands of individuals. Respiratory Care Practitioners assist physicians who diagnose and treat diseases of the heart and lungs by performing essential lab and clinical functions for patients in their care. From managing ventilators to conducting blood tests, ECGs and ultrasounds, these highly trained professionals help prevent, monitor and minimize heart and lung diseases within the Military Health System.

Work with doctors and other health professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart and lungs
Perform pulmonary diagnostic studies, electrocardiograms and ultrasound tests
Assist in long-term respiratory therapy, including the use of sophisticated life-support equipment to assist patients in breathing
Draw blood from patients to perform necessary blood tests
Assist in catheterization and other special studies of the heart

CAREER TASKS

QUALIFICATIONS SUMMARY

MINIMUM EDUCATION

In addition to a high school diploma or equivalent, for entry into this specialty, the following college courses are required: English Composition I (3 credits), Speech (3 credits), College Algebra (3 credits), Humanities (3 credits), and Social Sciences (3 credits).
ASVAB REQUIREMENTS

General
QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of general anatomy and physiology
- Completion of required college courses
- Completion of 7.5 weeks of Basic Military Training
- Must be between the ages of 17 and 39

TRAINING & EDUCATION

How do we transform you from a raw recruit to an expert Airman in this field? From hands-on experience to an Associate's degree and two national certifications, the path begins here.

BASIC MILITARY TRAINING

7.5 weeks
TECHNICAL TRAINING

240 days

TECH SCHOOL LOCATION

Phase I: Ft Sam Houston, TX . Phase II: Designated Medical Facility.
STATUS UPON COMPLETION

Enlisted Airman with an Associate's Degree in Respiratory Care, Registered Respiratory Therapy certification, and Certified Cardiology Technologist certification.