Master of Science in Respiratory Care, Clinical Specialist Concentration (2024)

An in-depth study of cardiovascular and respiratory physiology. This course investigates pathologic physiological changes, adaptive mechanisms, and interrelationships of the cardiopulmonary systems. Students will apply advanced cardiopulmonary physiology to the management of patients requiring respiratory care services.

An examination of the roles of clinical practice guidelines and protocols in the continuum of patient care. Analysis of the development, modification, initiation, and evaluation of patient outcomes will be covered. Barriers to protocol practice and strategies for implementation will be explored. Evidence-based outcomes will be summarized through literature reviews.

Provides an in-depth study of medical research including evaluation of published, peer-reviewed research designs. Students examine research articles and evaluate evidence-based research findings. Topics include: research ethics, sampling and research design, test statistics, conclusions, and practical verses statistical significance. Students will explore research protocol development, research proposals, and project management.

A comprehensive study of patient education and self-management of cardiopulmonary disease exacerbations including disease information, prevention and treatment. Programs for patient self-assessment , treatment efficiency, adjustment of drug regimen, behavior modification, and nicotine addiction will be examined. Methods for documenting outcomes and patient behavior modification will be covered.

This course offers an opportunity to apply research methods and design concepts. Students will design and submit a research proposal to the Texas State University's Institutional Review Board (IRB) for approval. Prerequisite: RC 5303 with a grade of "B" or better and instructor approval.

Introduction to the foundations necessary to build a strong understanding of academic administration, fiscal planning, curriculum development, and outcomes assessment for respiratory therapist programs. Topics include preparation of annual accreditation reports, organization of clinical practice rotations, the role of advisory committees, and integration of didactic, laboratory, and clinical experiences.

In-depth discussion of topics related to current issues and trends in the profession and the impact on patient care services. Includes journal review, group discussion, project development, and online presentation.

An overview of advanced cardiopulmonary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures addressing selected disorders including asthma, chronic obstructive lung diseases, restrictive lung diseases, pulmonary edema, congestive heart failure, and cardiac disorders. International disease standards and classifications established by the World Health Organization with appropriate treatment protocols will be discussed.

This course is an exploration of advanced Respiratory Care topics to optimize practice in the healthcare environment. The course will address best practice recommendations and evidence-based research to enhance and expand the role of respiratory therapists. Topics will be presented through a translational medicine lens to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Introduction to the physiology of sleep, including sleep neurology, sleep architecture, and classification of sleep disorders. Review of basic cardiac physiology and ECG arrhythmia recognition. Sleep pathologies will be discussed according to etiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

This course is an exploration of advanced mechanical ventilation in the acute care setting. This course will consist of in-depth review of current and emerging mechanical ventilation strategy and protocol. Mechanical ventilation content will be focused on invasive and non-invasive support mechanisms with a goal of bridging theory and practice. Evidence-based research, patient case studies, and video waveform analysis will be used to reinforce learning.

This course prepares the respiratory therapist for a role as an educator in an academic and industry setting. The course focuses on building foundational knowledge of respiratory care curriculum and instruction. Topics include adult learning theory, writing objectives, online and in-person instruction, exam preparation, item analysis, and providing feedback. National organization curriculum recommendations will be integrated into the course content.