Why You Should Pursue a Career in Respiratory Care at Children’s of Alabama

Erica Hill has been a part of the Children’s of Alabama family since 2004. During her time in the Respiratory Care Department, she has been able to help children improve one their most vital functions: breathing. As the Clinical Coordinator of the Pulmonary Care Unit, she shares her passion for her work and why Children’s of Alabama is the place to have a rewarding career in respiratory care.

What is working on the respiratory care team at Children’s like?

“Working on the respiratory care team at Children’s has been one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had.  I have learned something new each day by working closely with a multidisciplinary team, interacting with patients and their families, and participating in problem-solving activities associated with the job.”

Why are you passionate about respiratory care in the medical field?

“The simple act of breathing is a vital life function of life, and being able to assist those with breathing issues is my passion.  Providing state-of-the-art care to our patients requires a significant amount of team effort.  As a respiratory therapist at Children’s of Alabama, you are a vital and integral member of the team.”

Why would you encourage someone to pursue respiratory care, specifically at Children’s?

“As a Pulmonary Care Unit respiratory therapist practicing in acute and chronic care, I am afforded the opportunity to develop and expand essential skills while caring for patients of all ages and treatment needs.  This is just one of the many reasons that I would encourage someone to pursue respiratory care at Children’s of Alabama. Children’s of Alabama is the place where you can grow and learn in your professional skill, as well as work on an amazing team with people that love what they do.”

What are some new things you’ve learned on the team that have helped you grow in your career and provide better care?

“Working on the Pulmonary Care Unit, we specialize in the care and treatments of patients with a variety of lung disorders, ranging from asthma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, cystic fibrosis, and sleep disorders, to lung-related issues due to neuromuscular disorders.  We play a vital role in caring for patients admitted to the Home Ventilator Program. This has given me the opportunity to work with highly advanced equipment, work on clinical trials and use therapist driven protocols when treating patients with asthma.”

If you are interested in joining this team, following your passion and making an impact in the lives of children, please apply today to join our Respiratory Care Department!