RTH-160: Respiratory Therapy Pharmacology

School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Respiratory Therapy
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Respiratory Therapist
Course Number
160
Course Title
Respiratory Therapy Pharmacology
Credit Hours
2.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
RTH-100 and RTH-130 both with a C or better
Catalog Course Description

This course focuses on the appropriate and effective administration of respiratory care medications, including an overview of pharmacology, terminology, routes, techniques of administration, and calculation of dosages. The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) Guidelines for Asthma Management are emphasized.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Basic Pharmacological Principles
  2. Bronchodilators
  3. Calculation of Drug Dosages
  4. Aerosol Delivery Devices
  5. Inhalation Pharmacology
  6. Pharmacological Management of Asthma
  7. NAEPP Asthma Management Guidelines
  8. Bronchodilator Protocol
  9. Ultrasonic Therapy
  10. Mucolytics
  11. Case Studies
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
  1. Describe the mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, side effects, strength, dosage, and route of administration for the following respiratory pharmacological agents: bronchodilators (sympathomimetics, parasympatholytics, and methylxanthines), anti-asthmatic agents (mast cell stabilizers and leukotriene modifiers), anti-inflammatory agents, anti-microbial agents, mucolytics.
  2. Calculate drug dosages from solutions whose concentrations are expressed as % strengths.
  3. Describe the factors that effect aerosol deposition in the lungs.
  4. Discuss the indications, complications, and hazards of aerosol drug therapy.
  5. Compare and contrast jet nebulizers, ultrasonic nebulizers, pressurized metered dose inhalers, and dry powder inhalers for aerosol drug administration.
  6. Distinguish between spacers and valved holding chambers.
  7. Discuss issues involved in the selection of a device for aerosol delivery.
  8. Describe the components of Bronchodilator Protocols.
  9. Utilize a Bronchodilator Protocol to select a correct treatment regimen for a variety of case studies.
  10. Discuss the triggers, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and treatment of asthma.
  11. Discuss asthma management according to the NAEPP Guidelines.
  12. Determine the best stepwise approach to manage a patient’s asthma for a variety of case studies.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment will be based on quizzes and assignments,  written exams, and a comprehensive final exam.

General Course Requirements and Recommendations

Students must pass this course with a “C” or better to remain in the RTH program.

Texts

Textbook(s) determined through program faculty approval.

Effective Term
Fall 2019