Respiratory Therapy

Curriculum Description

The Respiratory Therapy curriculum prepares individuals to function as respiratory therapists. In these roles, individuals perform diagnostic testing, treatments and management of patients with heart and lung diseases.

Students will master skills in patient assessment and treatment of cardiopulmonary diseases. These skills include life support, monitoring, drug administration and treatment of patients of all ages in a variety of settings.

Graduates of accredited programs may be eligible to take entry-level examinations from the National Board of Respiratory Care. Therapy graduates may also take the Advanced Practitioner examination. Graduates may be employed in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, education, industry and home care.

The following represents one way in which the program of study can be completed. Students who aren’t able to follow this plan should consult their academic advisor to be sure that they take courses in the best order for their success.

Associate in Applied Science

A45720
NC CIP: 51.0908
Day
POS Approved: Fall 2012

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Summer Term

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

Total Credit Hours: 74

Additional Information

Additional admissions requirements:

1. Completion of high school or college level credits in biology are required. High school chemistry and human anatomy and physiology are recommended.

2. Current documentation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification at the healthcare provider level (Professional). This is not required to be in the selective admissions pool, however, if selected into the program this must be completed before the start of clinical rotations.

3. Completion of the Respiratory Therapy Open House/Orientation (RTOHO) session is required before the March deadline in order to be eligible for the selection pool for the fall entering class of the same year. Attendance at an Allied Health Information session is recommended but NOT REQUIRED.

4. Grade of C or better in all required related and program specific courses is mandatory for admission to and progression in the Respiratory Therapy program.

5. Completion of the Forsyth Tech Student Medical Form. This form will be sent out to those who are approved and selected for program admission. The form must be completed by the start of classes. A current TB test/chest x-ray and hepatitis B vaccination record (or signed waiver form) must be included and kept up-to-date and on file while matriculating in the Respiratory Therapy program.

Program Information

The Respiratory Therapy program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation

for Respiratory Care (www.coarc.com)

All inquiries and questions should be directed to:

Perry W. Sheppard, M.Ed., RRT-NPS, RPFT, RCP

Program Coordinator

Respiratory Therapy Program (Advanced-Level)

Forsyth Technical Community College

2100 Silas Creek Parkway

Winston-Salem, NC 27103

Office: 302A Greene Hall, 336.734.7427

FAX: 336.734.7444

email: psheppard@forsythtech.edu

This program has limited enrollment. Students are chosen by a selective admissions process based on grades earned in required related courses (e.g., biology, English, psychology, etc.) and completion of any training such as certified nurse assistant (CNA I or CNA II), emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, or any diploma or degree in a health or non-health field. The Admissions Office or college web site can provide additional information on the selection process.

A grade of F or any withdrawal in any required science course, RCP prefix course, or prerequisite course while enrolled in the program will result in dismissal from the program. Readmission may be possible but requires reapplying and approval by the college and may be on a space available basis.

Successful completion of an advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), neonatal resuscitation program (NRP), and pediatric advanced life support (PALS) provider course is a requirement for graduation from the program. It will be the student’s responsibility to secure, enroll in and successfully complete these advanced life support provider courses. A copy of the completion cards will be kept on file in the Respiratory Therapy program student files. Students must become student-level members of the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) by the completion of their second semester in the program.

Humanities/Fine Arts Elective – Select one: ART 111, HUM 110, HUM 115, HUM 121, HUM 160, MUS 110, PHI 215, PHI 240 or REL 110. Consult an academic advisor concerning additional possible electives.

Criminal Background Checks/Drug Screening

Clinical agencies require criminal background checks and/or drug screening for students assigned to their facility for clinical education. In addition, national and/or state registry and/or licensure boards may prohibit eligibility for registry or licensure based on criminal background records. Please refer to the Health Technologies section on www.forsythtech.edu.

** Hours will vary depending on course selection.