Respiratory Therapy

Using scholarly inquiry, this course examines the ethical principles and leadership styles relevant to public health and healthcare. Students will analyze ethical dilemmas related to public health and healthcare. Students will discuss ethical and legal considerations across the lifespan in diverse socioeconomic and cultural contexts. Students will conduct a review of various leadership models within the context of healthcare and public health environments. 

This course will review the basic processes of education. Topics will include learning styles, developing objectives, teaching methods, questioning and problem-solving methods, characteristics and roles of the clinical instructor, and the use of appropriate evaluation instruments.

Evaluation of approaches to patient care with an emphasis on the role of pharmacology in cardiopulmonary disease management. This content advances a basic understanding of the concepts and principles of pharmacology used in the treatment of cardiopulmonary patients.

Exploration of evidence-based airway management, including artificial airways, intubation, and the administration of specialty gases—examination of current trends, equipment, and techniques. 

A study of advanced cardiopulmonary monitoring used in critical care. Emphasis will be placed on hemodynamic monitoring, ECG interpretation, mechanical ventilation waveform graphic analysis, diagnostic lab values, imaging, and capnography.

A review of the nutritional needs, fluids, and electrolyte balances of the cardiopulmonary patient. Emphasis will be placed on the nutritional components associated with various pathophysiological states, including both acute and chronic needs. Discussion of the role of respiratory therapists as members of an interdisciplinary team evaluating the nutritional needs of critically ill patients. 

Exploration of current trends and methods of disaster management and emergency preparedness, including public outreach and education. Evaluation of the development of emergency operational and disease management plans as they apply to the cardiopulmonary patient. 

A review of adult disease processes affecting the body. Particular attention will be given to the correlation between disease and infectious processes as they affect the respiratory system. Students will discuss pathophysiology, current management trends, and outcomes of respiratory-related diseases. 

Discussion of determinants of health and the challenges faced by communities as they work to improve the health of their residents. The student will develop plans to maximize the utilization of community resources in addressing both acute and chronic respiratory conditions.

Evaluation of disease management strategies with an emphasis on cardiopulmonary-related disorders. Students will review and analyze the purpose and effectiveness of respiratory therapist-driven protocols (RTDP). Overview of the development of evidence-based guidelines and assessment tools related to effective disease management.  

This course requires a capstone paper within a chosen area of focus (pulmonary disorder, pediatric, neonatal, adult, critical care, emergency medicine, public health, or education). This course is the culmination of the BSRT program, as students will complete the capstone by applying the knowledge learned throughout the program. The intent is the documented expansion of a specific body of knowledge. The students will submit a research paper and critique papers submitted by their peers. This course will explore the purpose of research, how to evaluate literature, and its value in developing evidence-based practices and protocols.