RC - 311 Introduction to Respiratory Care

This course provides students with the history of the profession, the principles of chemistry, physics and infection control as they apply to respiratory care, as well as respiratory care procedures. Specific modes of respiratory care are examined to understand principles of application to patients, indications, hazards, contraindications and evaluation of therapy. Modes of care include medical gases, humidity/aerosol therapy, aerosol medications, positive pressure breathing, incentive spirometry, expiratory resistance, postural drainage and percussion/vibration. Noninvasive monitoring techniques including oximetry, transcutaneous monitoring, capnography and simple pulmonary function testing will be included. This course also reviews clinical analyzing devices, patient safety, recordkeeping and an introduction to patient assessment, respiratory care pharmacology and evidence-based respiratory care. Prerequisite: Admission to the program. Credit Hours: (5)