2009 Self-Directed Lecture Course Descriptions

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All of our courses are aproved by the AARC. Courses approved for Self-Directed credit hours may be taken at any time. You must pass the post-test to receive credit.

Course 1  ARDS/Acute Lung Injury (1 hr)

• Describe the etiologies, manifestations, diagnostic techniques and current management strategies for acute respiratory distress syndrome and acute lung injury

• Describe the actions, indications and effects of specific cardiovascular agents, including antidysrhythmics, inotropes and nitrates

• Describe the current status of research on the actions, effects, indications and contraindications for bronchodilating agents, mucokinetic agents and anti-inflammatory agents

• Explain the roles of the respiratory care practitioner in end-of-life care
• Describe the psychosocial dynamics involved in end-of-life-care

• Describe both invasive, and non-invasive, methods for assessment of hemodynamics
• Describe measurement techniques and explain the implications for values of hemodynamic parameters

• Describe the rationale and indications for high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV)
• Explain the monitoring requirements and ventilator adjustments for HFOV
• Discuss case presentations involving HFOV

• Describe the etiologies, manifestations, complications, diagnosis & management for OSA

• Describe current information on the pathogenesis and prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia

• Describe the etiologies, manifestations, diagnostic techniques and current management strategies for pulmonary vascular diseases; such as, pulmonary edema, hypertension and embolus

• Describe the epidemiology of cardiopulmonary disease among the aging population
• Describe special problems among geriatric patients, as well as accommodations respiratory therapists can implement in caring for them

• Describe the etiologies, manifestations and management of shock
• Identify specific agents used to maintain blood pressure and fluid balance, along with their actions, effects and complications

• Describe the etiologies, manifestations, diagnostic techniques and current management strategies for upper airway obstructive conditions in adults