| Aspect | Respiratory Support Technician | Respiratory Therapist |
|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; certification often required | Associate's or Bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy; licensure required |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, clinics, home care settings | Hospitals, clinics, emergency care, long-term care facilities |
| Job Responsibilities | Assist with patient care, operate respiratory equipment, monitor patients | Assess patients, develop treatment plans, perform diagnostic tests, manage ventilators |
Respiratory Support Technicians assist with patient care and operate respiratory equipment, while Respiratory Therapists have advanced training to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for respiratory conditions. Both roles work in healthcare settings but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice.