RESP 1104 - Cardiopulmonary Anatomy and Physiology

4 Credits

This course provides an in-depth study of coronary and pulmonary anatomy and physiology with focus on the adult patient. Emphasis is on the heart-lung relationship within the context of ventilation, gas exchange physiology, acid-base regulation, exercise, and cardiopulmonary compensatory mechanisms. Additional content explores the cardiovascular and renal systems as they relate to cardiopulmonary function. Didactic only.

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the NPC Respiratory Care Program, ENG 1113 English Composition I*, ENG 1123 English Composition II*, PSYC 1103 General Psychology* or SOC 1103 Introduction To Sociology*, BIOL 2224 Anatomy & Physiology I*, BIOL 2234 Anatomy & Physiology II*, MATH 1123 College Algebra*, CHEM 1104 Chemistry For Non-Majors* or CHEM 1204 Chemistry I for Majors*

Pre or Corequisite: BIOL 2244 Microbiology*

Corequisite: RESP 1103 Foundations of Respiratory Care, RESP 1114 Cardiopulmonary Assessment & Diagnostics

Didactic only. Course Level Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

Describe how spontaneous breathing and positive pressure mechanical ventilation are different and similar in the way they create pressure gradients throughout the respiratory cycle. (PLO 2, 3)
Explain the way in which various abnormal physiological processes impair the effectiveness of lung clearance mechanisms. (PLO 1, 3, 6)
Describe how the upper and lower airways differ in their ability to filter, humidify, and warm inspired gas. (PLO 1, 3)
Explain how compliance and resistance are related to the emptying and filling rates of the lung during breathing. (PLO 1, 3)
Explain how minute ventilation, alveolar ventilation, and dead space ventilation are interrelated. (PLO 1, 3)
Use arterial blood gas values to distinguish between primary respiratory and primary metabolic acid-base disturbances. (PLO 1, 3)
Explain how right and left ventricular pumping function can be assessed through pulmonary artery catheterization. (PLO 1, 3)