NVCC COLLEGE-WIDE COURSE CONTENT SUMMARY
RTH 111 – ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE CARDIOPULMONARY SYSTEM (3 CR.)



COURSE DESCRIPTION

Concentrates on the anatomy and physiology of the cardiopulmonary system. Lecture 3 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

This course is offered in the first semester of the program and is designed for beginning respiratory care students. The purpose of this course is to introduce fundamental principles of cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology and medical terminology. Medical terminology is studied through the use of a self-paced, programmed text.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

This is an entry-level course; therefore, there are no course prerequisites.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

A. understand basic medical terminology

B. understand anatomy and physiology of the airway

C. understand anatomy and physiology of the lungs

D. understand anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system

E. perform basic arterial blood gas interpretation

 MAJOR TOPICS TO BE INCLUDED
A. Medical terminology

B. Cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology

C. Cardiopulmonary assessment skills

1. gas exchange
2. gas transport
3. arterial blood gas interpretation
D. Acid Base Balance
Revised 4/00
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