Respiratory Therapy

This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required.

(Students cannot receive credit for both COM 250 and COM 350) This course will explore how diverse cultural orientations influence the way we perceive and interact with an increasingly culturally diverse world. We will discuss the causes of intercultural conflicts in different communication settings (interpersonal, small group, school, workplace and global) and how to manage them effectively.

Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity.

Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I
This is the first course of a two-semester course sequence in which students study the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The course includes introductions to basic chemistry, biology and histology and extends to the survey of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. This course includes a laboratory component in which students are responsible for performing dissections and making original observations on dissected material. The laboratory experience culminates with the use of a plastinated human specimen for observation. A strong background in biology and/or chemistry is highly recommended.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II
This is the second course of a two-semester course sequence in which students study the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The course includes the autonomic nervous system, sensory, motor, and integrative systems, special senses, endocrine system, cardiovascular systems, lymphatic system and immunity, respiratory systems, digestive system, metabolism and nutrition, urinary system and reproductive systems. This course includes a laboratory component in which students are responsible for performing dissections and making original observations on dissected material. The laboratory experience culminates with the use of a plastinated human specimen for observation. Because physiological processes are based on the principles of chemistry, prior chemistry coursework is strongly recommended for this course.

Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy.

Survey of the literature of African-American writers. Emphasis is on the major writers in narrative, poetry, fiction, essay and drama.

This interdisciplinary course examines contemporary issues, their human and technological components, and their historical precedents through art, music, literature and philosophy.

This classroom and laboratory course is an introduction to the duties and responsibilities of respiratory care practitioners. Topics covered include a review of physical science, cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, basic nursing skills, medical gas and aerosol administration, employee health and safety, pulmonary medications, and an orientation to clinical sites.

This course is an introduction to basic physical and laboratory assessment of cardiopulmonary patients. Topics include basic pulmonary function and medical lab values, blood gas analysis, and bedside patient assessment equipment and techniques.

This classroom and laboratory course continues the introduction to basic duties of respiratory care practitioners. Emphasis will be placed on patient assessment, basic therapy modalities, airway management, cardiopulmonary diagnostic equipment and techniques and an introduction to continuous mechanical ventilation.

The student in this course will be able to describe the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management of a variety of cardiopulmonary diseases and processes. Using a series of case studies, student will continue to develop assessment skills and apply clinical practice guidelines to develop care plans for patients with cardiopulmonary disease.

This course provides a hospital experience in which previously acquired classroom theory and laboratory skills can be exercised. Skills practiced include those associated with patient respiratory assessment, oxygen therapy, a wide range of bronchopulmonary hygiene therapies, and equipment processing.

Mechanical ventilation topics are continued in this classroom and laboratory course. Topics presented include volume pre-set and pressure pre-set ventilator equipment and basic ventilator application and management techniques for adult patients.

This course provides an overview of general pharmacology with an emphasis on drugs used in the critical care management of cardiopulmonary conditions.

This clinical course provides three types of experience for the respiratory therapy student. First, there will be a continuation of basic respiratory care modalities from the previous semester. Second, the diagnostic areas of basic pulmonary function testing, arterial blood gas puncture and analysis, and 12-lead electrocardiography will be introduced. Third, the student will receive an orientation to volume control ventilation in the adult ICU environment. In addition, weekly clinic seminars will be held on campus to facilitate student learning.

The student in this course will be able to describe the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management of a variety of advanced cardiopulmonary diseases and processes. Using a series of case studies, students will continue to develop assessment skills and apply clinical practice guidelines to develop care plans for patients with cardiopulmonary disease.

This course covers pulmonary function testing and blood gas analysis equipment and procedures in the laboratory and clinical settings and includes an emphasis on the interpretation of test results from this equipment. Ventilator graphics, an extension of PFT graphics, and their interpretation will be presented. Additionally, equipment and procedures in common use in the areas of ABG laboratories, cardiopulmonary stress testing, pulmonary rehabilitation, and pulmonary home care will be presented.

This clinical course allows students to assist in the pulmonary management of adults on mechanical ventilation. An integrated approach to patient care will be stressed through accurate patient assessment and application of various equipment and therapies. Students will also function as members of the health care team.

This course advances the student’s knowledge of cardiopulmonary physiology. The cardiac sections cover gross and histologic cardiovascular anatomy, neural/endocrinological control of cardiac function, hemodynamics, microcirculatory disorders, and a review of common cardiac arrhythmias. The pulmonary section covers bronchopulmonary anatomy, gas diffusion, blood flow, ventilation/perfusion relationships, gas transport, mechanics and control of ventilation, and lung responses to changing environments and conditions.

This classroom and laboratory course covers topics including fetal growth and development, patient assessment, commonly encountered equipment and the clinical management of common neonatal/pediatric diseases and conditions.

This course presents a wide variety of topics for discussion. Included are respiratory care history, management and supervision, trends in allied health, research, job acquisition skills and credentialing exam preparation.

This clinical course provides a varied experience for students who are about to graduate. A major emphasis will be in assisting with the pulmonary management of neonatal patients on mechanical ventilation. Other rotations will be in a variety to advanced diagnostic laboratories and alternate site venues where respiratory therapists are employed. In addition, weekly clinic seminars will be held on campus to facilitate student learning.