RTH-180: RT Clinical Sciences

School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Respiratory Therapy
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Respiratory Therapist
Course Number
180
Course Title
RT Clinical Sciences
Credit Hours
3.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
47.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
47.00 (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 clinical application of science to the practice of respiratory care. Topics include oxygenation, acid-base balance, ventilation in health and disease, basic microbiology, common microbial pathogens seen with pulmonary infection and the physical principles of spontaneous and mechanical ventilation. Emphasis is placed on blood gas interpretation, capnography, arterial puncture techniques, and disinfection and sterilization of respiratory care equipment.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Oxygenation
  2. Oxygen Transportation
  3. Acid-Base Homeostasis
  4. Blood Gas Classification
  5. Obtaining ABG’s
  6. Blood Gas Electrodes
  7. Non-Invasive Monitoring of Oxygenation and Ventilation
  8. Basic Microbiology
  9. Microbial Pathogens in Pulmonary Disease
  10. Sterilization & Disinfection
  11. Physics of Ventilation
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
  1. Explain the physiological basis of oxygenation and ventilation.
  2. Calculate oxygen content for arterial, venous and pulmonary capillary blood.
  3. Describe the methods of oxygen transport.
  4. Explain the significance and factors that affect the oxygen dissociation curve.
  5. Describe the methods used to measure oxygenation.
  6. Explain the principles relevant to acid-base balance in respiratory care.
  7. Discuss the blood gas parameters that measure ventilation.
  8. Describe the methods of CO2 transport.
  9. Differentiate between shunts and deadspace.
  10. Describe the correct procedure for obtaining arterial blood samples.
  11. Interpret blood gas results, including oxygenation and acid/base parameters.
  12. Describe the indices of oxygenation and ventilation.
  13. Describe the major organisms causing community-acquired, nosocomial, and ventilator-associated pneumonias.
  14. Explain the different types of interactions that occur between microorganisms and the human body.
  15. Describe how the human body defends itself against pathogenic microorganisms.
  16. Use the Equation of Motion to describe patient-ventilator interaction in mechanical ventilation.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment will be based on assignments, quizzes, exams and a 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.

Approval Dates

Effective Term
Fall 2019
ILT Approval Date
AALC Approval Date
Curriculum Committee Approval Date
Review Semester
Fall 2019