Respiratory therapy assisting programs prepare people to help respiratory therapists treat patients with breathing problems. Students learn to administer respiratory care plans and give treatments and medicines. They also learn to work with healthcare teams and patients. They also learn to keep records and instruct patients.

In 2006, the magician and entertainer David Blaine attempted to break the record for holding his breath underwater. He was able to hold his breath for just over 7 minutes, but didn't come close to the record of 8 minutes, 58 seconds.

Surely it is a feat to hold it even seven minutes, but those with respiratory problems may wonder why anyone would attempt to do such a thing at all! Our ability to breathe is something many of us take for granted. For those who have difficulty inhaling and exhaling, breathing isn't something to be treated as a trick.

The field of respiratory therapy helps patients with breathing problems. Various treatments help patients regain lung capacity or manage chronic conditions. As more patients encounter breathing problems, the need for respiratory professionals has increased. As a result, many people are choosing to study to become respiratory therapy technicians or assistants. These professionals help certified respiratory therapists treat patients.

In respiratory therapist assisting programs, you learn about the cardiopulmonary system. You study human anatomy and physiology. You also take courses in biology and chemistry. However, the bulk of your course work will be about respiratory care. You'll learn how to use different devices and how to manage patients before, during, and after treatment. These courses include lots of hands-on training, and you also learn how to work with nurses and certified respiratory therapists. In addition, you learn first aid, CPR, and emergency handling skills.

This field is still growing, so there are far more respiratory therapy programs than respiratory therapy assisting programs. However, this is sure to change. Typically you receive a certificate in this area, which usually takes about a year. Some schools offer an associate degree, which takes two years. In addition, many students work first as assistants, then take more course work and become respiratory therapists.