Every day, patients in hospitals need someone to help them breathe easier. But there aren’t enough hands on deck.

Many hospitals and clinics are short on respiratory therapists. The need keeps growing, and patients can’t get the care they deserve fast enough.

The good news is you can start working right away and fill in the gap when it matters so much. You help people breathe better, and you get steady work that fits your schedule.

At CAD Staffing Inc, we help match health professionals to desired roles such as respiratory therapist. Get started here.

Why Respiratory Therapists Are in High Demand

Hospitals all over the country are looking for more respiratory therapists.

The demand is high, and the supply is low.

Patients need help breathing, but there aren’t enough people trained to give that help.

Shortage of skilled RTs across the U.S.:

Many older therapists are retiring, and new ones aren’t filling the gap fast enough. This leaves hospitals struggling to keep up, especially during busy seasons or emergencies.

How respiratory care became critical after recent health crises:

When major health events hit, breathing problems rise fast. The need for skilled RTs became clear during those times.

People realized how important the role is because respiratory therapists help patients breathe easier and recover faster.

Why travel and contract assignments are opening new doors:

Because of the shortage, hospitals now hire travel or contract therapists to fill gaps.

That means you can pick where you want to go, work in new places, and still earn well. It’s flexible, rewarding, and keeps your skills sharp.

What Does a Respiratory Therapy Assignment Look Like?

A respiratory therapy assignment is a hands-on role where you help patients with breathing problems get better every day.

• Typical duties and responsibilities: You’ll check patients’ breathing, set up ventilators, give treatments, and keep track of progress. Your goal is to make sure each person gets the care they need to breathe comfortably.

• Common settings: Respiratory therapists work in hospitals, ICUs, rehab centers, and long-term care homes. Each place offers its own kind of experience based on the patients and pace of care.

• Shift types and schedules: You might work days, nights, or rotating shifts. Some assignments are short-term, others last several months. Either way, the goal is to fit your skills where patients need them most.

Basic Requirements to Get Started as a Respiratory Therapist

Before you can begin your assignment, a few key steps make sure you’re ready to work safely and professionally.

These include getting licensed, organizing your documents, and completing standard checks.

Licenses and Certifications You’ll Need

To work as a respiratory therapist, you must have the right credentials. These show hospitals that you are trained and qualified to care for patients.

• State License: Every state has its own licensing board, so make sure yours is current in the state where you plan to work.

• NBRC Certification: Most employers require the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential.

• BLS/ACLS Certification: Basic and advanced life support training helps you handle emergencies confidently.

• Specialty Certifications: Some jobs may ask for added skills like neonatal or pediatric respiratory care.

• Continuing Education: Keep learning to maintain your license and stay updated with new treatment methods.

How to Prepare Your Documents Ahead of Time

Having your papers ready makes the onboarding process smooth and fast. Staffing agencies often help organize and submit them.

• Resume: Keep it current and highlight your clinical experience.

• References: Choose people who can confirm your work quality and reliability.

• Medical Records: Proof of vaccinations and health screenings may be required.

• Identification: Have copies of your ID and professional credentials ready.

• License Copies: Make sure your license is valid and easy to verify.

The Role of Compliance and Background Checks

Before starting work, every facility will need to confirm your history and qualifications. This helps keep patients safe and workplaces secure.

• Background Check: Verifies your identity and work record.

• Drug Screening: Ensures you meet health and safety standards.

• Employment Verification: Confirms past job experience and responsibilities.

• Credential Check: Make sure your certifications are real and active.

• Onboarding Review: A final check to confirm all documents meet facility requirements.

Benefits of Taking Travel or Contract RT Jobs

Working as a travel or contract respiratory therapist gives you more freedom and new experiences. You can earn more, see new places, and grow faster in your career.

• Better pay and flexibility: Travel and contract jobs often pay higher than permanent roles. You can also choose when and where you want to work, giving you control over your schedule and lifestyle.

• Chance to work in different locations: Each assignment lets you explore new hospitals, cities, and care settings. You gain experience working with different teams and patient needs, which makes you a stronger professional.

• Opportunities for growth and experience: Every new job teaches you something new. You build new skills, meet healthcare professionals from different backgrounds, and keep improving your clinical confidence.

How CAD Staffing Helps You Land Faster RT Jobs

Finding a good respiratory therapist job can take time, but CAD Staffing makes it easier. They connect you with trusted hospitals, guide you through each step, and help you settle in smoothly.

• Access to verified hospital openings: CAD Staffing works directly with healthcare facilities, so you see real and active job openings. This saves you from searching endlessly online or applying to outdated listings.

• Help with credentialing and placement: Their team helps you gather and verify your licenses, certifications, and records. Once everything is ready, they match you with the right job based on your experience and goals.

• Housing and relocation assistance: If your new role is in another city, they help you find safe and affordable housing. This lets you focus on your work instead of worrying about moving.

• Smooth onboarding with ongoing support: From your first interview to your first day on the job, CAD Staffing stays with you. They answer questions, fix issues fast, and make sure your transition feels easy and stress-free.

Tips to Succeed on Your First Assignment

Your first job as a respiratory therapist can feel new and a little scary. But with the right attitude, you’ll settle in quickly and do well.

• Be flexible with shifts and new systems: Every hospital has its own way of doing things. Be ready to learn, ask for help when needed, and adjust to new tools or routines.

• Talk clearly with your team: Let others know what you’re doing and listen when they talk. Good teamwork starts with good communication.

• Stay calm and professional: Be on time, follow rules, and stay polite even on busy days. A good attitude makes people want to work with you again.

• Keep your papers and licenses up to date: Check your certifications often and renew them before they expire. It keeps you ready for the next job without delay.

Why Choose CAD Staffing for Your RT Career

CAD Staffing makes it easy for respiratory therapists to find jobs that fit their goals. They understand what you need, move fast, and stay with you every step of the way.

• Focused experience placing respiratory therapists: CAD Staffing has helped many RTs find great assignments. They know your skills, your challenges, and what hospitals look for.

• Fast matching process with trusted hospitals: Once your profile is ready, they quickly connect you with verified openings that match your background and preferences. No long waits, no random job boards.

• 24/7 recruiter support throughout your contract: You’re never left on your own. A recruiter checks in often to make sure things are going well and helps fix any problem that comes up.

• Option for travel, per diem, or permanent positions: You can choose what fits your lifestyle. Travel if you want to explore, pick per diem for extra shifts, or go permanent for stability.

To Wrap It Up

Respiratory therapists are in high demand, and the right job can open many doors for you. With CAD Staffing, you get real opportunities, full support, and quick placement in trusted hospitals.

If you’re ready to start your next assignment, now is the time. Apply today and let CAD Staffing help you begin your journey as a respiratory therapist.