Cardiopulmonary Care Science (Respiratory Therapist), AS

Program Description: Cardiopulmonary Care Science prepares individuals to treat patients ranging from premature infants to the elderly with acute and chronic cardiopulmonary illnesses. Graduates of the program work with patients on mechanical ventilation to maintain life support such as oxygenation, ventilation, and airway management. They treat patients with pulmonary disease who have underdeveloped lungs and patients with chronic lung disease. They play a vital role in many areas of health care.

Program Accreditation: The Respiratory Therapy program, CoARC program number 200410, Associate of Science Degree, at Fletcher Technical Community College in Thibodaux is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (www.coarc.com). 264 Precision Blvd Telford, TN 37690 USA

Program Coordinator: Alisha Aucoin, M.A., RRT

Program Instructor(s): Alisha Aucoin, MA, RRT; Brian Parker, MD; Robin Gaudet, BS, RRT; Naomi Henry, AS, RRT; Cherie Guidry, AS, CRT; Jason Connor-Flores, AS, RRT; Abbegayle Macnamara, AS, RRT

Special Comments: All courses in this program of study must be completed with a grade of C or higher. Admission to the professional/clinical phase is based on selective admission requirements.

Overall Grade Point Average: Program requirements must be completed with an overall grade point average of 2.0 or higher to receive an associate degree.

Course Grade Requirements: All courses in this program of study must be completed with a grade of C or higher

Program Goal: To prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs).

Student Learning Outcomes: Students who successfully complete the Cardiopulmonary Care Science program will be able to:

1. Review patient records, including test results.
2. Recommend procedures to obtain additional data.
3. Select and use equipment needed to deliver respiratory care and ensure infection control.
4. Maintain records and communicate patient’s clinical status to appropriate members of a health care team.
5. Maintain a patient’s airway, including care of artificial airways.
6. Remove bronchial secretions.
7. Modify or recommend modifications to therapeutic procedures.
8. Conduct respiratory care techniques in an emergency setting.
9. Assist physicians in performing special procedures.
10. Perform pulmonary rehabilitation and home care.

CIP Code: 510908