RCP 501 - Advanced Respiratory Therapy

1. Support a respiratory therapist’s role in Emergency Care.
   1. Explain the causes and clinical picture of respiratory failure.
   2. Describe equipment and techniques used by respiratory therapists in emergency situations.
   3. Select, assemble and troubleshoot equipment needed for endotracheal intubation.
   4. Demonstrate intubation.
   5. Select, assemble and troubleshoot equipment needed for extubation.
   6. Demonstrate extubation.
2. Assess basic concepts of invasive mechanical ventilation.
   1. Describe how ventilators work.
   2. Explain how a breath is delivered.
3. Justify the need for mechanical ventilation.
4. Select appropriate ventilator modes and settings based on patient information.
   1. Predict how changes in mechanical ventilator parameters will affect arterial blood gases.
   2. Relate the importance of alarm limits used during mechanical ventilation.
5. Assess basic concepts of noninvasive ventilation.
   1. Describe indications for non-invasive ventilation.
   2. List contraindications of non-invasive ventilation
   3. Compare and contrast interface devices.
   4. Evaluate patient response to non-invasive ventilation.
6. Choose initial non-invasive ventilator settings.
7. Conclude an initial Patient Assessment.
   1. Understand monitoring techniques used during mechanical ventilation.
   2. Examine vital signs during mechanical ventilation.
   3. Evaluate endotracheal tube cuff.
8. Evaluate patient and ventilator interaction.
   1. Evaluate ventilator graphics.
   2. Conclude solutions for troubleshooting and problem solving.
   3. Determine optimal PEEP.
   4. Select the appropriate medications for ventilator management.
   5. Describe the effects of mechanical ventilation on the cardiac system, pulmonary system, intracranial pressure and renal system. 
9. Assess the need and process for liberation from mechanical ventilation.
   1. Identify liberation criteria.
   2. Recommend liberation methods.
   3. Evaluate patient response to liberation method.