RSC 201 — RSC 205, RSC 221, and RSC 290. Students are
assigned to a clinical site for a total of 8 weeks and will work under the direct supervision of a clinical instructor or preceptor. This third clinical practicum is an opportunity for the student to gain clinical experience and additional clinical practice for the respiratory care skills obtained in their Mechanical Ventilation and Advanced Respiratory Care courses. The student will perform direct patient care by evaluating patients’ medical records, assessing patients, and administering basic care including oxygen therapy, humidity and aerosol therapy, hyperinflation therapy, and bronchial hygiene therapy. Students will interact with members of the healthcare team to optimize the patient’s care management. Students will also have the opportunity to perform blood gas puncture and analysis, and practice airway management skills. The student may be involved in emergency medical situations such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of manual resuscitators. Students will also rotate in the adult ICU and provide care to patients who require advanced respiratory care and ventilatory support. Students will also have the opportunity to provide care to pediatric patients with breathing difficulties.