B.S. or A.D.???

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I know this is a nursing forum, however after careful consideration, I don't think I can handle being a nurse because I can't imagine being able to cope with bodily fluids on a day to day basis. So now I am looking into Respiratory Therapy. I already have a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering. I can't find a california state school that offers a B.S. in Respiratory Therapy but I have found private allied health care colleges that offer a B.S. My question is, what is the differen in job opportuniteis and pay and advancement with a B.S. or an Associates in Respiratory Therapy?? There is a local california community college that offers a Associates degree in RT that is only 2 years. However, if there is a big difference between a B.S. and A.D. with that career I may be willing to go to the private college. Thanks for all your help and time!!

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Specializes in ER.

Not really answering your question here (I don't really know the difference between RT degrees), but do you know how much sputum, phlegm, vomit, and other fluids that respiratory has to deal with on a daily basis? Even with all that nurses have to deal with I've always said that I couldn't stomach being a RT. Ick. Just something for you to think about...and possibly research a little more before you make a big leap! :nuke:

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Just being honest but if you can't handle bodily fluids I don't think RT is the way to go either. They are constantly suctioning trach patients and do come in contact with bodily fluids on a regular basis.

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How is it they come in contact with bodily fluids and what type?

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Specializes in ER.

Suctioning either trachs or vents, helping during codes (patients may vomit during codes, and RT is always right in there helping with suctioning or tubing), dealing with coughing patients, elderly patients who may have excess sputum. Anything that comes out of the mouth/throat/nose/chest, etc. fluid-wise, will be dealt with by respiratory therapists. I'm sure there's more, but those are the ones I can think of off the top of my head.

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