Question Summary:
Can I take up profession as a Respiratory Therapist?

Question Detail:

I wanted to study to become a respiratory therapist but I am a male and there will probably be times where I have to have physical contact with female patients, like inserting or adjusting ventilation tubes, performing cpr etc. Is this permissible and should I look more into this profession?
 

Answer :

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
In principle, it is permitted for a male to occupy a post in the medical field and render services of health care to the opposite gender. However, we should always be mindful of ourselves lest we fall into sin by gazing at female patients with lust. As such, it is permissible to become a respiratory therapist, provided contact with the female patients is kept to a minimum and that under no circumstances you are alone with them behind closed doors[i].
In the case of an emergency procedure when you are required to do CPR, make certain to be wearing such gloves that don’t transfer body heat.[ii] As far as the exposure of her chest is concerned, you will be required to fear Allāh. It is advisable to seek forgiveness for being confronted with such type of exposures.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Khalil Johnson
Student Darul Iftaa
Canada 
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.