5 Questions Respiratory Therapists Should Ask In A Job Interview

Interviews can be stressful for anyone. Allied Health professionals are no exception to this. Getting a contract as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) is not only about showcasing your skills and experience but also about asking the right questions during the interview process. Here are some suggestions on questions to ask your interviewer, and questions they may ask you.

1. What is the patient population like?

Understanding the demographics and conditions of the patient population is crucial for an RRT. It not only influences the approach to respiratory care but also plays a pivotal role in job satisfaction. By gaining insights into the patient population, respiratory therapist professionals can tailor their care strategies and connect more deeply with those they serve. This question can also give you some insight into the volume of work, and familiarity with respiratory care in that area.

According to a study from University of Minnesota RHRC, “Access to respiratory care services is especially important for rural populations, who are more likely to suffer from chronic respiratory diseases. The COPD prevalence rate, for example, has been estimated to be about 12% for individuals living in rural communities compared to 7% across the U.S.”

Asking specific questions about the patient population during an interview demonstrates a proactive attitude and a commitment to providing patient-centered care that can be more tailored to that specific population. This question shows you understand the need for specific care in specific areas and are flexible enough to handle challenges brought on by the location of the hospital.

2. Can you describe the respiratory care department's role in the overall healthcare team?

Respiratory therapy is collaborative with other departments, and working smoothly with other healthcare professionals is essential in providing safe, quality care. Highlighting the team-based nature of the respiratory care department showcases an awareness of the interconnectedness of healthcare roles.

Questions about team dynamics and collaboration allow you to gauge how well you would fit into the overall healthcare team, ensuring a seamless and effective approach to patient care. Knowing the team dynamics will also help you better navigate any possible conflicts.

Your interviewer will want to know if you are a team player, and about your ability to compromise and support your team members. Ideally, you will keep an open mind when discussing patient care which will help you create and maintain a strong working relationship with your colleagues.

3. What opportunities exist for career development, and will the department help me grow professionally?

Respiratory care is dynamic. Similarly to nursing, continuous learning and education play a big role in an RRT's career growth. By inquiring about professional development opportunities, training programs, certifications, and avenues for advancement, you can demonstrate a commitment to staying current and evolving with the demands of the profession.

You can show that you are a self-starter, and eager to learn and improve. This can help the hiring manager see your commitment to longevity in your workplace, as these advancements take time. This two-part question will also show that you are ready to learn from your team members, and you are open to and ready for feedback.

Continuous learning not only enhances individual capabilities but also contributes to the overall advancement of respiratory care, and your hospital or specialty clinic. The more you learn, the better you can provide care for your patients, leading to increased patient happiness and job satisfaction.

4. How does the team handle emergency situations?

In emergency situations, the role of respiratory therapists is critical. Understanding the facility's protocols and preparedness for emergencies, including code blue calls, helps the team respond effectively. It's essential for you to stay composed and focused in a high-pressure, fast-paced setting, while also accurately gauging if a patient requires immediate treatment.

By asking specific questions about emergency response procedures, you can ensure your abilities align with the facility's expectations and protocols, fostering a secure, safe, and efficient work environment. You can show that you are ready to handle whatever challenges are thrown at you while staying calm and collected.

5. What technological resources are available for respiratory therapists?

Healthcare relies heavily on technology. Inquiring about the availability of advanced equipment and tools demonstrates your awareness of the importance of staying current with technological advancements.

Access to state-of-the-art equipment enhances the respiratory care team’s capabilities and ensures the delivery of the highest quality care. This question shows that you are committed to continuous learning and are willing to learn and change with new technology. Adaptability and the ability to learn are great skills that interviewers will actively look for.

We all know however, that an interview is a two-way street. In addition to you being prepared with specialty specific questions, your interviewer may ask questions to get specific insights into your previous work experiences and your knowledge of respiratory care.

Examples of what your interviewer make ask you:

• Have you ever had to provide emergency assistance to a patient who was in critical condition? How did you handle it?
• What healthcare settings have you worked in? (Pay special attention to the RRT position you are applying for, and make sure it aligns with your experience and preferred settings.)
• What is the most challenging respiratory condition you have treated? What was your approach?
• Have you ever disagreed with another respiratory therapist about a diagnosis? How did you handle it?
• They may ask you specific questions about your knowledge of equipment, such as the differences between inhaler types. (e.g. Explain the difference between HFA, DPI, and SMI inhalers.)
• How do you handle the challenges associated with traveling, such as adapting to new facilities and teams?
• Describe a situation where you had to troubleshoot respiratory equipment or resolve an unexpected issue.

Though there are plenty of questions to ask in an interview, it is smart to come prepared with thoughtful questions to showcase your confidence and competence. Asking insightful questions during interviews is a vital component of the hiring process. It not only allows you to assess your fit within the organization but also signals to employers that you take a driven, purposeful, and proactive approach to your profession.

Remember, interviews are a conversation, providing an opportunity for both the employer and the employee to determine if the partnership is mutually beneficial. Tailoring questions to specific career goals and interests ensures that you will embark on a career path that aligns with your aspirations.

Ready to start a new position as a Registered Respiratory Therapist? Check out the LeaderStat Job Board!