Columbia State Community College recognized nine respiratory care graduates during its annual pinning ceremony.

Students who are trained to work as respiratory therapists provide assessment, diagnostic evaluation, treatment and care for patients with breathing disorders. Upon completion of the program, graduates have become experts in artificial ventilation, resuscitation and airway management.     

Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including long-term care facilities, home care agencies and area hospitals, such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Maury Regional Medical Center, Southern Tennessee Regional Health System Lawrenceburg, Saint Thomas West Hospital, Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Monroe Carrel Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

“Respiratory therapists, as many other health professionals, are in high demand,” said Cindy Smith, program director and assistant professor of the respiratory care program. “Our graduates have all accepted positions, and are eager to begin their career. If you are interested in healthcare, I urge you to consider respiratory care.”

Columbia State’s respiratory care program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care. All students participate in supervised, hands-on care in a variety of area healthcare settings and receive adult, pediatric and neonatal training. 

“Skilled respiratory therapists are highly valued members of the healthcare team,” said Dr. Kae Fleming, dean of the Health Sciences Division and professor of radiologic technology. “These graduates join a long line of Columbia State graduates who make life-saving decisions for patients daily.” 

For more information about applying to the respiratory care program, visit www.ColumbiaState.edu/Respiratory-Care. 

Not Pictured: Williamson County graduate Ashley Ruiz.