Respiratory Physiologist
Respiratory Physiologists work closely with doctors, nurses and other health care professionals. They work directly with patients and use a variety of equipment and techniques to measure and monitor patients’ respiratory function.
Measurements made by a Respiratory Physiologist include: lung volumes and forced expiratory flows, respiratory gas exchange, blood gases, response to treatment, breathing during sleep, allergy testing and physiological responses to exercise. The information obtained is used to assist in the diagnosis of disease, to identify treatment regimes, to measure the effects of treatment and to estimate the likely risks during surgery. Patients will have been referred because of chest pains, abnormal chest X-rays, breathing difficulties, respiratory disease or sleep disorders.
The Respiratory Physiologist will work with computers linked to sophisticated, hi-tech respiratory equipment. They are also responsible for the maintenance and calibration of all equipment, including therapeutic/diagnostic equipment issued for use in the patient's home.
Entry Requirements
A Respiratory Physiologist needs to complete a recognised university degree in Clinical Physiology to be eligible for State Registration (from 2006). For entry to a degree course in Clinical Physiology the usual requirement is a minimum of four Higher Grades BBBB that must include two Sciences (Maths can be regarded as a Science).
However, entry requirements vary between courses and alternative qualifications may be accepted – check individual university prospectuses for details.
Training
The degree course may be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. The degree includes special options in Respiratory Physiology, with the professional body for Respiratory Physiology moderating the examinations.
Career Prospects
On completion of the BSc Clinical Physiology, employment prospects are excellent as there is a shortage of qualified staff in the United Kingdom. Continuing Professional Development is expected and encouragement is given to study for an MSc or a PhD.
Promotion is possible to a Chief or Senior Chief Clinical Physiologist where you will be responsible for a particular speciality or in charge of a department and may be involved in research programmes.
How to apply
Click here to search for NHS Scotland vacancies for Respiratory Physiologists
Vacancies are also advertised in local and national press.
Applications for degree courses are made through The Universities and Colleges Admission Services.
Further Information
Further information on a career as a Respiratory Physiologist is available from
The Association of Respiratory Technology and Physiology (ARTP).
