3.00 Credits
This course will introduce the student to the following: Theory and application of cardiac output measurement. Arterial line insertion techniques, care, and hazards. Hemodynamic studies to include: insertion, care, and hazards of flow directed balloon tipped catheter and the central venous pressure catheter. Pressure monitoring will discuss central venous pressures, right arterial pressures, right ventricular pressures, pulmonary artery pressures, and pulmonary occluding pressures. Study will also introduce the student to equipment associated with hemodynamic monitoring such as: transducers and monitoring devices. Waveform interpretation with clinical application will be discussed. Fundamentals of electrocardiography will be introduced to include: lead application, pharmacology for the cardiovascular problems, and tracing interpretation. Studies in fluid and electrolyte balance as it relates to respiratory care will also be discussed. (3 lecture hours/week)