RCP 405 - Respiratory Care Diagnostics

Credits: 2
Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 0
Practicum Hours: 0
Work Experience: 0
Course Type: Open

1. Interpret a pulmonary function test.
   1. State the primary purposes of pulmonary function tests.
   2. Describe the pathophysiologic patterns associated with obstructive and restrictive lung disease.
   3. Describe the purpose and technique for the bronchoprovocation test.
   4. Describe the four volumes and four capacities that can be measured with pulmonary function testing.
   5. Explain the methods used to measure lung volumes and capacities.
   6. Describe the rationale for performance of spirometry before and after bronchodilator administration
   7. Describe purpose and techniques used to measure diffusing capacity.
2. Evaluate pulmonary function equipment.
   1. Troubleshoot pulmonary function testing equipment and portable spirometer.
   2. Describe effective quality control in the pulmonary function laboratory.
3. Examine tests used in Respiratory Therapy.
   1. Explain FeNO testing.
   2. Discuss cardiopulmonary stress testing, 6-minute walk test, spirometry, and DLCO.
   3. Perform peak flow and evaluate the results.  
4. Critique imaging studies used in respiratory care.
   1. Evaluate results of imaging studies such as chest radiograph, CT scan, ultrasonography or echocardiography, ventilation/perfusion scan, PET scan.
   2. Review a chest radiograph to assess quality of imaging, presence and positioning of airways, lines and drains, presence of foreign bodies, heart size and position, and presence or change in cardiopulmonary abnormalities.   
5. Analyze bronchoscopy.
   1. Summarize how to perform bronchoscopy.
   2. List the indications for diagnostic and therapeutic bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). 
   3. Assemble and troubleshoot bronchoscopes and light sources.
6. Evaluate a thoracentesis.
   1. List the indications for thoracentesis.
   2. Describe the procedure or thoracentesis.  
   3. Explain the testing of pleural fluid.
7. Establish the use of chest tubes.
   1. Assemble and troubleshoot a pleural drainage system.
   2. Identify placement of a chest tube.
8. Critique techniques and interpretation of polysomnographic testing.
   1. Determine when to recommend a sleep study.
   2. Describe the parts of a polysomnographic test.
   3. Summarize how to perform overnight pulse oximetry, CPAP and NiPPV titration.
   4. Explain the significance of apnea hypopnea index.

 
Competencies Revised Date: 2020