3.00 Credits
This introductory course is the entry point for all students interested in exploring respiratory therapy. The course is designed to introduce the students to the fundamental principles of respiratory care. Topics include the historical development of the respiratory profession and organizational structure, fundamental principles of health care reimbursement, basic legal and ethical aspects of respiratory care practice, infection control, patient safety, and OSHA. Students will also explore the structure of medical language, the body in health and disease, hematology, immunology, education, and health promotion. In addition, this course includes basic respiratory modalities, including humidity and bland aerosol, aerosol drug therapy, medical gases, lung expansion therapy, and airway clearance