Northern Virginia Community College
Northern Virginia Community College

Revised 8/26

RTH 222 - Cardiopulmonary Science II (3 CR.)

Course Description

Focuses on assessment, treatment, and evaluation of patients with cardiopulmonary disease. The course explores cardiopulmonary, renal, and neuromuscular physiology, and pathophysiology. Lecture 3 hours per week.

General Course Purpose

This course is offered in the fourth semester of the program and is a continuation of Cardiopulmonary Science I. The purpose of this course is to complete the students’ knowledge of diseases affecting the cardiopulmonary system. Evaluation of fluid and electrolyte balance is also explored.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

PRTHrerequisites: RTH 135 and RTH 296.

Course Objectives

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate thorough understanding of the following diseases: Diseases of the pleura and diseases of the chest wall, Pulmonary fibrosis, Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), Sepsis, Shock, Neuromuscular diseases, Bronchogenic carcinoma, Sleep disorders, Bronchiectasis, Near drowning/aspiration, Pneumonia/ Fungal infections of the lung/Microbiology of pneumonia, Tuberculosis, Congestive heart failure (CHF)- fluid imbalances, Chest tubes.
  • Evaluate data in the patient record based on hemodynamic status and clinical presentation.
  • Identify the following topics as they relate to the specific diseases studied:
    • Etiology
    • Physiological changes
    • Signs and symptoms
    • Clinical course
    • Diagnostic procedures
    • Management
    • Patient prognosis

Major Topics to Be Included


  • Disease Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Management, and Prognosis
  • Pleural and Chest Wall Disorders
  • Interstitial and Acute Lung Diseases (Pulmonary Fibrosis & ARDS)
  • Shock, Sepsis, and Hemodynamic Disorders
  • Neuromuscular Diseases
  • Lung Cancer
  • Sleep Disordered Breathing 
  • Respiratory Infections (Pneumonia, Fungal Infections, Tuberculosis)
  • Bronchiectasis and Aspiration Syndromes
  • Congestive Heart Failure
  • Chest Tubes and Pleural Drainage
  • Hemodynamic Assessment and Patient Record Evaluation