Kim Lee | March 24th, 2024
Ever dreamed of turning your passion for helping people breathe easier into a travel adventure? Well, hold onto your stethoscope, because becoming a Travel Respiratory Therapist (Travel RRT) might be the perfect fit for you!
This guide will equip you with all the essentials for navigating this exciting career path. So, pack your bags (and your nebulizer!), because we’re about to embark on a journey exploring the world of Travel RRTs.
Who is a Travel RRT?
A Travel RRT is a licensed Respiratory Therapist (RRT) who provides specialized respiratory care to patients in non-traditional settings. Unlike their hospital-based counterparts, Travel RRTs work in various locations, including:
- Home care
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Cruise ships
- Disaster relief zones
- Film sets (think actors with allergies needing on-set support!)
Essentially, wherever patients require respiratory therapy outside a traditional hospital setting, a Travel RRT might be there to lend a breath of fresh air (literally!).
Why Become a Travel RRT?
Variety is the spice of life! If you crave a dynamic career that takes you beyond the four walls of a hospital, becoming a Travel RRT offers a unique opportunity. Imagine trading fluorescent lights for stunning ocean views while providing essential care on a cruise. Or, picture yourself working in a bustling rehabilitation center, helping patients regain their lung function.
Travel the World (or Just Your State) Travel RRT positions often come with the perk of exploring new places. Whether your dream is to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska or soak up the sun on a Caribbean island, Travel RRT jobs can take you there! However, if wanderlust isn’t your thing, Travel RRT positions are also available within your local area, offering flexibility and variety within familiar territory.
Competitive Pay and Benefits Travel RRT jobs generally offer competitive salaries and attractive benefits packages. The demand for skilled Travel RRTs is high, which translates to strong earning potential and enticing benefits like travel stipends and housing allowances (depending on the position).
What Skills Do You Need to be a Travel RRT?
- The Core Essentials: As a foundation, you’ll need to be a licensed RRT with a strong understanding of pulmonary physiology, medication administration, and respiratory therapy procedures. Experience in a hospital setting is a plus, but not always mandatory.
- Be Adaptable: Travel RRT positions often involve working with diverse patient populations and in unfamiliar environments. Being a quick learner and adaptable will be key to your success.
- Communication is Key: Excellent communication skills are crucial when interacting with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. The ability to explain complex medical concepts in a clear and concise way is essential.
- Be a Team Player: Travel RRTs often work independently, but collaboration is still vital. Building strong relationships with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers ensures optimal patient care.
How to Become a Travel RRT: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Get Licensed: First things first, you’ll need to complete an accredited Respiratory Therapy program and pass the national RRT exam.
- Gain Experience: While some Travel RRT positions may accept new grads, most prefer candidates with some hospital experience. This helps solidify your understanding of respiratory care practices.
- Get Certified: Certain Travel RRT positions may require additional certifications, depending on the specific setting (e.g., home care certification).
- Polish Your Resume and Portfolio: Highlight your skills and experience related to travel (e.g., fluency in a second language) or specific patient populations you enjoy working with.
- Connect with Travel Staffing Agencies: These agencies specialize in placing Travel RRTs in various positions. Register with multiple agencies to maximize your job search.
Start Your Adventure! Once you’ve landed your dream Travel RRT position, get ready to explore and provide top-notch respiratory care on the go.
Life on the Road: Travel RRT Tips & Tricks
- Research, Research, Research: Before embarking on your Travel RRT journey, research the location and facility you’ll be working at. Familiarize yourself with their policies, procedures, and patient population.
- Pack Light, Breathe Easy: Travel RRT jobs often involve working with limited resources. Pack light and prioritize essential equipment and supplies you might not readily find at the facility.
- Embrace the Unexpected: Travel RRT positions can be unpredictable. Be prepared to adapt your approach to meet the unique needs of each patient and setting.
- Network and Learn: One of the greatest benefits of being a Travel RRT is the opportunity to learn from a vast array of healthcare professionals across different environments. Connect with your colleagues, share knowledge, and expand your skillset.
- Maintain a Work-Life Balance: Traveling for work can be exciting, but it’s important to prioritize your well-being. Schedule time for self-care, explore your surroundings, and create a routine that keeps you grounded.
If you aren’t already heading to your next assignment, let’s chat! 😊
Email [email protected] to get connected with a recruiter!
Apply Here to get started today!