Registered Respiratory Therapist Career Profile
Respiratory Therapy in Saskatchewan
What is a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT)?
A Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) is a health-care professional that evaluates, treats, and cares for people who have breathing problems. RRTs use oxygen, medicines, and advanced mechanical technology measures and equipment such as ventilators to help people breathe more effectively. Most RTs work under the direct supervision of a doctor and treat people of all ages, from premature babies with undeveloped lungs to older adults with respiratory disease.
What is it like working as a Registered Respiratory Therapist at the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA)?
RRTs, as part of the SHA, work in hospital, clinical care and community care settings as part of a multidisciplinary health-care team in order to provide the best patient care. Hospital settings include Intensive Care Units (ICU), Neonatal ICU, Pediatric ICU, Emergency Departments, Critical Care Units, and other hospital wards. Community Care Settings include Home Oxygen Suppliers. RRTs work in shifts in order to provide health-care coverage based on the needs of the facility or clinic and this may include days, nights, and weekends. Opportunities to grow as a RRT include taking advanced courses to work in specialized areas, and pursuing management and leadership positions.
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What can I earn as a Registered Respiratory Therapist?
The current pay per hour is:
- Respiratory Therapist - $38.64 - $47.14
- Respiratory Therapist Senior - $41.73 - $50.91
- Respiratory Therapist Supervisor - $45.07 - $54.99
In addition to the above pay bands, the SHA provides a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Extended Health and Dental benefits
- Defined-Benefit Pension Plan
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Employee and Family Assistance Program
- Annual Vacation
RRTs working with the SHA are unionized employees and are members of the following union:
How do I become a Registered Respiratory Therapist?
A diploma or degree is required to work as a RRT in Saskatchewan. These programs are typically take 3 to 4 years to complete. There is no training program in Saskatchewan; however there are reserved training seats for Saskatchewan students in the following program in Alberta:
After completing your program, you will need to obtain a license from the Saskatchewan College of Respiratory Therapists (SCRT) and pass the Canadian Board for Respiratory Care (CBRC) exam.