Pulmonary care nurse

A pulmonary care or respiratory nurse treats patients who are suffering from lung and respiratory conditions.

Required education

MSN

Average annual salary

$89,000

ZipRecruiter (Jan. 2026)

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

What is the role of a pulmonary care nurse?

You’ll care for people with both acute and chronic illnesses such as such as asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia, emphysema and lung cancer.

What you’ll do as a pulmonary care nurse?

Collaboration

You’ll work with your patients’ healthcare team, including therapists and doctors.

Education

You’ll teach people how important it is to exercise and avoid activities that increase risk, like smoking.

Treatment

You’ll perform tests, manage patients’ medications and other treatments, and administer oxygen therapy.

Female doctor using a stethoscope to check senior male patient's heart and lungs.

Where you’ll work as a pulmonary care nurse

Pulmonary care nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Assisted living facilities
Clinics
Home care agencies
Hospitals
Long-term care centers
Military or government facilities
Private offices

How to become a pulmonary care nurse

Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Get your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).

There’s no specific certification for a pulmonary nurse.

You can earn a critical care certification through the American Association of Critical Care Nurses or a credential in Certified Pulmonary Function Technology through the National Board for Respiratory Care.

You’re ready to work as a pulmonary care nurse.