Overview

The respiratory specialist is primarily responsible for helping with the management of a respiratory unit by administering respiratory therapy and performing pulmonary function tests under the supervision of a physician or nurse anesthetist.

The respiratory specialist is strictly an advanced level position. 

Job Duties

• Examining and treating emergency or battlefield patients
  
• Interviewing patients and recording their medical histories
  
• Preparing blood samples for laboratory analysis
  
• Keeping health records and clinical files up-to-date
  

Training

Job training for a respiratory specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 36 weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including inpatient care. 

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Emergency medical treatment
  
• Basic nursing care
  
• Understanding of the human body
  
• Minor surgical procedures
  
• Clinical laboratory procedures
  
• Methods for diagnosing diseases
  

Helpful Skills

• Enjoy helping and caring for others
  
• Ability to communicate effectively and work under stressful conditions
  
• Interest in chemistry, biology, psychology, general science and algebra
  
• High attention to detail
  

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with hospitals, nursing homes or rehabilitation centers.  With a respiratory specialist background, you may consider a career as an emergency medical technician, a medical assistant, a medication aide or a physician's assistant.

With continued study and experience, you may qualify for certification as a National Board for Respiratory Care Respiratory Therapist.