RTH-240: Cardiopulmonary Diagnostics

School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Respiratory Therapy
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Respiratory Therapist
Course Number
240
Course Title
Cardiopulmonary Diagnostics
Credit Hours
1.50
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
24.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
24.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
BIO-234 with a C grade or higher, and permission of the Respiratory Therapist Program Director
Catalog Course Description

This course discusses basic pulmonary function testing and electrocardiographic testing. Basic theory and techniques for testing are covered. Students are expected to perform and evaluate these tests for use by the physician. This course is offered as an eight-week course.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Pulmonary Function Testing: Spirometry
    • Define the components of forced spirometry measurements.
    • State normal values for forced spirometry measurements.
    • Describe the techniques used to obtain forced spirometry measurements.
    • Recommend the use of pulmonary function testing including forced spirometry, lung volumes, and diffusing capacity.
  2. Pulmonary Function Testing: Lung Volumes
    • Define the components of lung volumes, diffusion, and gas distribution measurements.
    • State normal values for lung volumes, diffusion, and gas distribution measurements.
    • Describe the techniques used to obtain lung volumes, diffusion, and gas distribution measurements.
    • Compare and contrast lung volume measurements.
    • Compare and contrast how indirect methods are used to measure residual volume and capacities containing residual volume.
  3. Pulmonary Function Testing: Specialty Testing
    • Recommend the use of specialized pulmonary function testing including pre- and post-bronchodilator testing, bronchial provo cation challenge and cardiopulmonary exercise testing.
  4. Pulmonary Function Testing: Equipment, Quality Assurance Procedures, etc
    • Evaluate the accuracy and reliability of pulmonary function tests (PFT).
    • Interpret pulmonary function tests (PFT) results including normal, obstructive, restrictive, and combined studies.
  5. Cardiac Testing: Electrocardiography
    • Describe the function of the electrocardiograph (ECG) and its components.
    • Explain the use of the electrocardiograph (ECG) in the evaluation of cardiac function.
    • Identify the electrocardiograph (ECG) pattern for normal patterns and each of the arrhythmias.
    • Interpret electrocardiograph (ECG) strips.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment will be based on participation, assignments, quizzes, course 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

To be determined by program faculty.

Outcomes

Satisfies Wellness Requirement
No
Satisfies Honors Requirements
No
Effective Term
Fall 2025