RESPIRATORY THERAPIST PROGRAM
HANDBOOK
2015-2016
Kirkwood Community College
Allied Health
319-398-5566
1-800-332-2055
Welcome to the Respiratory Therapist Program!
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We, the faculty, are happy that you have chosen the Respiratory Therapist Program at
Kirkwood. We sincerely hope that your time here will be both productive and enjoyable, as you
prepare for an exciting career in Respiratory Care.
The Respiratory Therapist faculty stands ready to assist you with any questions or concerns.
The next two years will be rigorous and challenging. We realize that attending Kirkwood may
have already required changes in your life. We understand that being a student is only part of
your life and we hope to be able to assist you in making any necessary adjustments.
As you progress through the program and questions or challenges arise, please let us know. If
we don't have the answer, we can usually find someone who can help. We are available during
posted office hours, just call and schedule an appointment. We want you to grow academically
and professionally as you prepare for a new career.
This handbook is designed to provide information about our expectations of students and of
ourselves as faculty, so that we can work together as a team. Please contact us if you have any
questions regarding the materials presented in this handbook.
We look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
Tamara S. Alt BAS, RRT- NPS, RCP
Respiratory Therapy Program Director
Office (319) 398-5520
Fax (319) 398-1293
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Mel Cerveny BLS, RRT, CPFT
Respiratory Therapy Director of Clinical Education
Office (319) 398-1289
Fax (319) 398-1293
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section I ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
HANDBOOK INFORMATION .................................................................................................................. 6
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES ........................................................................................................... 6
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK ................................................................................................... 6
Section II ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
ADMISSION INFORMATION................................................................................................................... 7
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................ 7
TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION..................................................................................................... 8
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS/CREDIT BY EXAMINATION ............................................. 8
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH ACADEMY ARTICULATION ....................................................................... 8
PRE-COURSE WORK .......................................................................................................................... 8
Section IIIA ................................................................................................................................................... 9
PROGRAM INFORMATION .................................................................................................................... 9
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY ................................................................................................................... 9
HISTORY............................................................................................................................................... 9
GOALS AND STANDARDS ................................................................................................................ 10
LEARNING OUTCOMES .................................................................................................................... 11
EXTERNAL STANDARDS .................................................................................................................. 11
PROGRAM COMPTETENCIES .......................................................................................................... 11
JOB DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................ 12
EXPECTATIONS OF A PROFESSIONAL .......................................................................................... 13
PHYSICAL STANDARDS ................................................................................................................... 13
AFFECTIVE / BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS ....................................................................................... 14
ACCREDITATION ............................................................................................................................... 14
ADVISORY COMMITTEE ................................................................................................................... 14
PLANS OF STUDY ............................................................................................................................. 15
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS ................................................................................................................. 16
HUMANITIES REQUIREMENT .......................................................................................................... 18
ESTIMATED PROGRAM COSTS....................................................................................................... 21
ADVISING SHEET .............................................................................................................................. 21
Section IIIB ................................................................................................................................................. 24
CLASSROOM/LAB/CLINIC ................................................................................................................... 24
OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT .................................................................................................................. 24
ATTENDANCE / PUNCTUALITY ........................................................................................................ 24
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ............................................................................................................ 24
CLINICAL ASSIGNMENTS ................................................................................................................. 24
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY/CLINIC POLICIES ............................................................................. 25
CLINICAL COMPETENCIES .............................................................................................................. 26
CLINICAL ATTENDANCE POLICY .................................................................................................... 26
DRESS CODE ..................................................................................................................................... 28
SEMINARS AND CONFERENCES .................................................................................................... 29
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EXAMINATIONS ................................................................................................................................. 29
UNIFORMS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................. 30
CONFIDENTIALITY ............................................................................................................................ 30
PROFESSIONALISM .......................................................................................................................... 30
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE ................................................................................................................... 30
FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS ............................................................................................................ 31
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR) POLICY ............................................................................................. 31
INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE ...................................................................................... 32
ILLNESS/ACCIDENTS ........................................................................................................................ 32
BBP POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP ................................................................... 33
HEALTH INSURANCE ........................................................................................................................ 35
WEATHER .......................................................................................................................................... 35
Section IIIC ................................................................................................................................................. 36
REGISTRATION/GRADES .................................................................................................................... 36
REGISTRATION ................................................................................................................................. 36
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION ........................................................................................................... 36
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES ................................................................................. 36
GRADES ............................................................................................................................................. 37
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY ............................................................................................. 39
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS ........................................................................................................... 40
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM ............................................................................................ 40
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM ................................................................................................. 41
PART-TIME STATUS .......................................................................................................................... 41
COMMUNICATIONS ........................................................................................................................... 41
GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY .................................................................................. 42
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES ................................................................................. 42
SCHOLARSHIPS ................................................................................................................................ 42
Section IV ................................................................................................................................................... 44
PROGRAM COMPLETION.................................................................................................................... 44
COMPLETION OF THE RESPIRATORY THERAPIST PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH
ADVANCED STANDING ..................................................................................................................... 44
ACADEMIC AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 44
STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT .......................................................................................................... 45
LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................... 45
ARTICULATION OPPORTUNITIES ................................................................................................... 45
Section V .................................................................................................................................................... 47
GENERAL INFORMATION.................................................................................................................... 47
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Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION
This handbook has been prepared as a special resource containing information pertinent to the
program. If you have questions, need assistance or clarification on any policies, procedures, or
requirements, you are strongly encouraged to see your program coordinator. No rule or
statement in this handbook is intended to discriminate nor will this program knowingly, for the
purpose of clinical experience, place students in other agencies which discriminate on the basis
of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital
status.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student is responsible for familiarity and compliance with information appearing in this
program handbook as well as the Kirkwood Community College Student Policies via Current
Student link, www.kirkwood.edu/students. Failure to read the information will not be considered
an excuse for non-compliance. The Kirkwood Student Handbook may be obtained from the
Allied Health Department office in Linn Hall 2164.
Policies in this program handbook have been adopted by the faculty. If a student finds that an
extenuating circumstance might justify a waiver of a particular policy, the student may petition
the coordinator of the program. The program reserves the right to change policies or revise
curricula as necessary due to unanticipated circumstances. Students registered in technical
courses will be informed of curricular changes.
Violation of guidelines within this program handbook could ultimately result in dismissal from the
program.
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK
Refer to the Kirkwood Student Handbook
www.kirkwood.edu/students for the following policies:
via
Academic Information
American Disabilities Act
Cheating and Plagiarism
College policies & procedures
College Services - Counseling, Personal Achievement
Tutoring, Writing Center, etc
Confidentiality
EEO - http://www.kirkwood.edu/site/index.php?p=31126
Equal Rights
Financial Aid
General Information
Outreach services
Sexual Harassment.
Student Conduct
Student Life
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the
Student
Policies
link,
Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All students seeking admission to this program must complete all of the following:
1.
2.
3.
Complete a Kirkwood Community College Application, listing Respiratory Therapist
as your major. This can be done online or mail to One Stop/Enrollment Services 216
Kirkwood Hall. Students may apply to one Kirkwood program at any time. The newest
application automatically cancels any previous application.
View Admissions Video and Attend a Program Conference. These are scheduled as
one-hour program conferences monthly. Dates of upcoming program conferences can
be found on the department website, www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. Please sign up to
attend on the website.
Provide Evidence of Academic Readiness.
The COMPASS placement test, ACT, or SAT may be accepted. The test must have
been completed within the last three years.
To begin the program, all students must have the following minimum placement scores:
COMPASS
OR
ACT
OR
Course
Option
Writing / English
Reading
32
71
15
16
Elements of Writing
Higher level writing course
4.
5.
(Pre-Algebra)
18
Intermediate Algebra
Microbiology
Or
Math
50
Or
Higher level math course
Submit Admissions Criteria Checklist: Students MUST submit their admissions
criteria checklist to the Allied Health office when all admission requirements are
completed. Applicants meeting requirements are accepted in order of checklist
submission date. Twenty-five students are accepted each fall semester. After the
program is full, students are accepted to a numbered waiting list. The first 25 on the
waiting list will be accepted for the following fall.
Complete an observation in a Respiratory Care Clinic. This is recommended but is
optional. It is to be arranged through the Respiratory Therapy Program Director.
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TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION
College courses taken prior to beginning the program at Kirkwood may be evaluated for
possible transfer credit. To have a transcript evaluated, the student must request an official
transcript from each college be sent to:
Kirkwood Community College
Enrollment Services
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-9973
Students wishing to have previous respiratory care coursework evaluated should send a copy of
their current college catalogue or detailed course descriptions to the program director at
Kirkwood.
Transcripts sent directly to the program faculty are not acceptable. Your transcripts will be
evaluated based on the Kirkwood major you have declared. You can run a Degree Audit in
EagleNet to see how your credits were awarded.
Additionally, students who are transferring from another respiratory care program must
submit a letter of recommendation from the faculty at the originating college and/or
program. Transferring students must be in good standing in their current program.
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS/CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
The program faculty will review credits awarded by the Credit by Examination process. This
may be done either through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or by department
examinations where available. Please refer to the college catalog for additional information.
Questions regarding waiver of course requirements and/or credit by exam should be directed to
the program director.
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH ACADEMY ARTICULATION
Course work earned while a student in the High School Health Academy program is on the
student's Kirkwood transcript and may meet specific program requirements.
PRE-COURSE WORK
Students are encouraged to begin taking selected courses prior to beginning their program.
Students should refer to the program web page at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth for current
registration and curriculum information. There will be no substitution of courses in the curriculum
unless approved by the program director.
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Section IIIA
PROGRAM INFORMATION
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The Respiratory Therapist Program seeks to educate any person desiring a professional career
in Respiratory Care, without regard to race, color, creed, gender, or educational background. As
educators in the health care field, we seek to improve health care delivery by producing
educated personnel who display excellence in both performance and professional
representation. We believe the specialized nature of Respiratory Care requires not only
technical expertise, but also humane, empathetic and professional behavior directed toward
patient care. We expect students to strive for excellence, not only in the classroom and
laboratory, but also in clinical practice. Our primary goal is education; but within this framework,
our first priority is always the health and safety of the patient.
HISTORY
The Respiratory Therapist Program was established in 1972 through the joint efforts of Dr. John
Kasik and the faculty and administration of Kirkwood Community College. Dr. Kasik, a specialist
in pulmonary medicine, saw a need for trained respiratory therapists in the local area hospitals
and organized a joint effort between the Veterans Administration and Kirkwood Community
College in funding and operating a formal training program in Respiratory Therapy. The program
started in the Fall of 1972 with classes held at the Community College and clinical practice at
the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City. The program was supported by the Joint
Review Committee for Respiratory Care Education and received full accreditation status in 1975
through the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association.
Dr. Kasik retired in 1996. He was succeeded as Medical Director for the program by Dr. Jeffery
Wilson, a pulmonologist at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Dr. Wilson resigned in
the spring of 2001 and has been succeeded by Dr. Michael J. (Shane) Moan, a pulmonologist
from Iowa City. Dr. Moan resigned in 2004 to return to his native Ireland and was succeeded by
Dr Lois Geist, a pulmonologist whom is the Chief of Medical Service at the Veterans Affairs
Hospital, Iowa City and Associate Professor at the University Of Iowa College Of Medicine, and
the Dean of Pulmonary Academic Medicine. Dr. Lois Geist resigned from the board fall of 2012
and Dr. Michael Eberlein accepted the open position on the board. Dr. Eberlein graduated with
high honors from John Hopkins University and is currently head of Pulmonary Lung Transplant
and research at the University of Iowa. Dr. Eberlein is a significant partner in curriculum
development, enhancement, and more importantly, student interaction and teaching.
The curriculum is competency-based and supports many different learning styles including but
not limited to; kinesthetic, visual, auditory, and tactile.
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GOALS AND STANDARDS
Drawing on the philosophy and background of this program, our program mission stands:
Program Goal: To prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive
(knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care
practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRT).
Program Outcomes based upon mission: The curriculum is competency based and thereby
students are evaluated by the educators as it relates to the program standards, outcomes
(competencies), external standards, by way of course objectives and course materials.
Standard #1-A:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate will
demonstrate the ability to perform competently in the cognitive, psychomotor, technological, and
affective practicing domains with the ability to apply and perform the information relevant to
critical thinking skills at an advanced level Respiratory Care Practitioner.
Standard #1-B:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate will
demonstrate technical proficiency in skills consistent with program goals and objectives
reflective of current periodic job analysis as it relates to the community, society of healthcare,
relevant to the workplace at the advanced level Respiratory Care Practitioner.
Standard #1-C:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate will
demonstrate personal behaviors consistent with professionalism that values opportunities for
lifelong learning while honoring employer expectations for an advanced level Respiratory Care
practitioner.
Standard #1-D:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate will
demonstrate strength in the following areas: oral and written communication skills, fundamental
science, math, biomedical principles, and understanding cross-cultural variations, including an
appreciation for everyday expression of the human condition as expressed in the healthcare
setting with prospective that applies to an advanced level Respiratory Care practitioner.
Standard #1-E:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate’s
learning will have been continually assessed by program faculty, as well as program
administrative functions and outcomes. The process will include, but is not limited to both
quantitative and qualitative performance data collected and critically analyzed by the
Respiratory Therapy program.
Standard #1-F:
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, each graduate’s
student performance will have been evaluated with consistent, expected individual student
learning outcomes. Grading criteria will be clearly defined for each course, communicated to
students, and applied consistently. Each student’s progress will be communicated to the
students at the time of the evaluation. Student performance will be evaluated by faculty.
Standard #1-G
Upon completion of the Respiratory Therapy program, written criteria will
be provided to all students indicating the criteria for passing, failing, academic progression in the
Respiratory Therapy program. Evaluation systems will be in place, providing the student with
frequent progress reports, supporting student and faculty with timely indications of student
academic standing and progress, and to serve as a reliable indicator of the effectiveness of
instruction and course design. Student assessment of student learning is both described and
applied based on clear parallels between what is expected, taught, and assessed.
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LEARNING OUTCOMES
A. Acquire, evaluate, and report clinical data.
B. Assess, evaluate, and communicate recommendations in a professional manner
including but not limited to; pharmacological, physiological, and pathophysiological
needs.
C. Initiate, manage, and modify therapeutic procedures for the cardiopulmonary patient.
D. Consistently demonstrates infection control practices and maintains quality control.
E. Monitor, evaluate, and modify patient's objective and subjective responses to therapeutic
procedures while communicating ethically with professional communication.
F. Assist physicians to perform special procedures. Initiate and modify pulmonary
rehabilitation and home care.
EXTERNAL STANDARDS
•
•
•
•
•
•
Graduates will manage data collection competently and to an advanced level.
Graduates will communicate in an ethical and professional manner while demonstrating
an understanding at an advanced level.
Graduates will manipulate and manage respiratory equipment competently to an
advanced level.
Graduates will adhere to the standards and practices set forth by; JACHO, OSHA,
HIPAA, and CoARC to an advanced level.
Graduates will initiate, evaluate, and modify respiratory therapeutic procedures in an
ethical and professional manner to an advanced level.
Graduates will be competent in the application of problem solving strategies in the
patient care setting to an advanced level.
PROGRAM COMPTETENCIES
1.
2.
3.
Manage and Communicate Clinical Data
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Acquire, evaluate, and report clinical data
b.
Linked External Standards
i.
Graduates will manage data collection competently and to an advanced
level
Assess and Evaluate Clinical Data and Make Recommendations
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Assess, evaluate, and communicate recommendations in a professional
manner including but not limited to; pharmacological, physiological, and
pathophysiological needs
b.
Linked External Standards Graduates will communicate in an ethical and
professional manner while demonstrating an understanding at an advanced level
Manipulate and manage Respiratory Equipment
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Initiate, manage, and modify therapeutic procedures for the
cardiopulmonary patient
b.
Linked External Standards
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i.
4.
5.
6.
Graduates will manipulate and manage respiratory equipment competently
to an advanced level
Ensure Infection and Quality Control Practices.
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Consistently demonstrates infection control practices and maintains quality
control.
b.
Linked External Standards
i.
Graduates will adhere to the standards and practices set forth by; JACHO,
OSHA, HIPAA, and CoARC to an advanced level.
Initiate, Evaluate, and Modify Respiratory Therapeutic Procedures.
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Monitor, evaluate, and modify patient’s objective and subjective responses
to therapeutic procedures while communicated ethically with professional
communication.
b.
Linked External Standards
i.
Graduates will initiate, evaluate, and modify respiratory therapeutic
procedures in an ethical and professional manner to an advanced level.
Initiate, Conduct, or Modify Respiratory Care Techniques in an Emergency Setting or
Home Care Setting.
a.
Linked Program Outcomes
i.
Assist physicians to perform special procedures. Initiate and modify
pulmonary rehabilitation and home care
b.
Linked External Standards
i.
Graduates will be competent in the application of problem solving strategies
in the patient care setting to an advanced level.
*All course competencies and objectives are tested in a variety of venues. The venues included
but not limited to are; laboratory, clinical practice, lecture, and clinical simulations.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The following represents the knowledge and skills required of the advanced level graduate
respiratory therapist, working under the supervision of a physician:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Applies scientific principles for the identification, prevention, remediation, and
rehabilitation of acute and chronic cardiopulmonary disorders.
Reviews existing data, collects additional data, and recommends additional tests to
evaluate the respiratory status of patients.
Uses the above data to develop a respiratory care plan and determine the
appropriateness of the prescribed therapy.
Initiates, conducts, and modifies prescribed therapeutic and diagnostic procedures
including but not limited to administering medical gases, providing humidification,
delivering therapeutic aerosols and airway clearance modalities; initiating CPR,
providing mechanical ventilator support; maintaining artificial and natural airways;
performing pulmonary function studies, hemodynamic and other physiologic monitoring;
and collecting specimens of blood and sputum for analysis.
Documents necessary information in the patient’s medical record and on other forms.
Communicates necessary information to the other members of the health care team
while adhering to the rules and laws respecting confidentiality and privacy.
Obtains, assembles, operates, and checks necessary equipment.
Uses problem solving to identify and correct malfunctions of respiratory care equipment.
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•
•
Demonstrates appropriate interpersonal skills to work productively with patients, families,
staff and co-workers.
Accepts directives, does not discriminate, and upholds the ethical standards of the
profession.
EXPECTATIONS OF A PROFESSIONAL
As a student representing the Respiratory Therapist program at Kirkwood you are expected to
behave in a professional and courteous manner at all times. Any student, who behaves in a
manner that embarrasses a patient (i.e. clinical site), the program (i.e. classroom and/or
simulation experiences), or at any clinical affiliate, you will be instructed to refer to the Clinical
Code of Conduct and/or Kirkwood’s Student Policies via Current Student link,
www.kirkwood.edu/students. The student clinical code of conduct specifically outlines expected
student behaviors at the clinical site and uses Kirkwood’s Student Policies under the Current
Student link, www.kirkwood.edu/students for any further professionalism behaviors. For further
reference refer to each course syllabus that provides expectations and explanations that
support the clinical code of conduct and the Kirkwood Student Policies under the Current
Student link, www.kirkwood.edu/students.
PHYSICAL STANDARDS
ACTIVITY
LIFT: Up to 50 pounds to assist moving patients and / or equipment.
STOOP: To adjust equipment
KNEEL: To perform CPR
CROUCH: To locate and plug in electrical equipment
REACH: Five feet above the floor to attach oxygen devices to wall outlets.
HANDLE: Small and large equipment to store, retrieve and move.
GRASP: Syringes, laryngoscopes and endotracheal tubes
STAND: For prolonged periods of time.
FEEL: To palpate pulses, to palpate arteries for puncture and to check skin
temperature
PUSH / PULL: Large wheeled equipment, e.g. ventilators
WALK: For extended periods of time to all areas of the hospital.
MANIPULATE: Knobs, dials associated with diagnostic / therapeutic devices.
HEAR: Verbal directions, gas flow through equipment, lung and heart sound
through a stethoscope.
SEE: Patient conditions such as skin color, work of breathing or mist flowing
through aerosol tubing.
TALK: To communicate in English goals and procedures to patients.
READ: Typed, written, and computer information in English.
WRITE: To communicate in English pertinent information (e.g. patient
evaluation data or therapy outcomes.
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FREQUENCY
F
C
O
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
AFFECTIVE / BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS
Display emotional maturity to approach highly stressful situations in a calm
and rational manner.
Maintain composure while managing multiple tasks.
Prioritize multiple tasks
Interact effectively with patients, their families, physicians, colleagues, other
health care providers and the public.
Maintain personal hygiene consistent with the standards for a health care
professional.
Adheres to ethical and legal standards of conduct for healthcare
professionals.
C
C
C
C
C
C
* FREQUENCY KEY: O = Occasionally 1-33%; F= Frequently 34-66%; C = Constantly 67-100%
ACCREDITATION
The program is nationally accredited by CoARC (Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory
Care). The program is responsible for maintaining an ongoing self-evaluation process.
Reaccreditation occurs every 10 years.
The Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care can be contacted at:
1248 Harwood Rd.
Bedford, Texas 76021-4244
817-283-2835
www.coarc.com
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Respiratory Therapist Program maintains an Advisory Committee of representatives from
the community to guide and assist in curriculum development and other program matters. The
committee meets at least annually to assist the program and sponsoring institutional personnel
in reviewing and evaluating any changes to any educational goals, program outcomes,
instructional effectiveness, and programs response to change. The communities of interest that
are served by the program must include, but are not limited to; students, graduates, faculty,
adjunct faculty, college administration, employers, physicians, and the public. This program will
have two student representatives from each class serve on this committee representing the
views of fellow current students.
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PLANS OF STUDY
RESPIRATORY THERAPIST
DEGREE
Term
New
Course #
Course Name
Lecture
Hours
Lab
Hours
Clinic
Hours
Total
Credit Hours
Pre-Req
Pre-Req
Pre-Req
BIO-161
CHM-110
BIO-186
Basic Anatomy & Physiology*
Introduction to Chemistry*
Microbiology*
Term totals
32
48
48
128
32
0
32
64
0
0
0
0
3.0
3.0
4.0
10.0
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
HSC-107
HSC-210
RCP-120
RCP-210
MAT-102
ENG-105
HSC-115
Professionals in Health*
Health Skills I*
Cardiopulmonary Assessment
Intro to Respiratory Care
Intermediate Algebra*
Composition I*
Medical Terminology*
Term totals
32
8
8
24
64
48
64
248
0
16
16
32
0
0
0
64
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2.0
1.0
1.0
2.5
4.0
3.0
4.0
17.5
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
RCP-220
RCP-300
RCP-730
PSY-111
SPC-101
Respiratory Care I
Respiratory Physiology
Respiratory Care Clinic I
Intro to Psychology*
Fundamentals of Oral Comm*
Term totals
32
64
0
48
48
192
32
0
16
0
0
48
0
0
96
0
0
96
3.0
4.0
2.5
3.0
3.0
15.5
Summer
Summer
Summer
RCP-510
RCP-370
RCP-420
Respiratory Care II
Respiratory Pathology I
Pulmonary Function Testing
Term totals
64
32
16
112
64
0
16
80
0
0
24
24
6.0
2.0
2.0
10.0
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
RCP-470
RCP-850
RCP-735
RCP-380
RCP-610
Cardiac Monitoring
Respiratory Care III
Respiratory Care Clinic II
Respiratory Pathology II
Perinatology
Term totals
24
32
0
40
32
128
0
16
16
0
16
48
0
0
288
0
0
288
1.5
2.5
6.5
2.5
2.5
15.5
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
RCP-740
RCP-890
RCP-480
ELECT
Respiratory Care Clinic III
Respiratory Care Applications
Advanced Cardiac Care
Humanities Elective*
Term totals
0
16
32
48
96
16
32
16
0
64
288
0
0
0
288
6.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
14.0
PROGRAM TOTALS
CREDIT AVERAGE PER TERM
904
368
696
82.5
13.8
*Courses may have been taken before beginning the technical portion of the program and do not need to be retaken.
All (*) items MUST be completed either before or during the given semester and passed with a C- or higher to be able
to enroll into subsequent semester course work. Lab ratio 1:15.
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The following are course descriptions for the Respiratory Therapist technical courses.
For descriptions of other courses, please access online at www.kirkwood.edu/catalog
RCP-120 Cardiopulmonary Assessment (1)
Provides the student with the necessary competencies to conduct a general head-to-toe
integumentary assessment as well as a more detailed cardiovascular and chest/pulmonary
assessment, enabling the student to identify and document any abnormalities. Credits: 1, Hours:
(0.5/1/0/0), Coreq: BIO-161; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-210 Introduction to Respiratory Care (2.5)
Provides the theory, equipment operation and application with laboratory exercises in airway
management techniques, humidity therapy and bland aerosol therapy. Credits: 2.5, Hours:
(1.5/2/0/0), Prereq: minimum grade C- in both BIO-186 and CHM-110; Arts & Sciences Elective
Code: B
RCP-220 Respiratory Care I (3)
Provides the theory, equipment operation and application with laboratory exercises in oxygen
and other gas therapy; and aerosol drug therapy, with an introduction to respiratory
pharmacology and airway clearance modalities. Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Prereq: HSC-107,
HSC-210, RCP-210, minimum grade C- in HSC-115; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-300 Respiratory Physiology (4)
Provides the essential concepts of cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology with an emphasis
on pulmonary homeostasis. Credits: 4, Hours: (4/0/0/0), Prereq: BIO-161 or BIO-168/173 or
BIO-177/180, and earn minimum grade C- in HSC-115; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-370 Respiratory Pathology I (2)
Provides an introduction to the study of disease with an emphasis on terminology and basic disease processes. Examines common infectious diseases, acute and chronic respiratory
diseases, and cardiovascular disorders. Concentrates on etiology, pathophysiology, signs and
symptoms. Provides an overview of respiratory care for the surgical patient, as well as specific
management of traumatic chest injury and head trauma. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq:
BIO-186, RCP-300; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-380 Respiratory Pathology II (2.5)
Offers an in-depth study of pulmonary disorders relating the respiratory therapist's role in
diagnosis, treatment, pharmacologic management and support; provides practice in gathering
appropriate information and making prompt and correct patient care decisions. Credits: 2.5,
Hours: (2.5/0/0/0), Prereq: minimum grade C- in RCP-370; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-420 Pulmonary Function Testing (2)
Provides theory and operation of equipment in pulmonary function testing with interpretation of
test results. Laboratory exercises include gathering data from bedside spirometry, measuring
weaning parameters, as well as standard pulmonary function laboratory testing. Credits: 2,
Hours: (1/1/1.5/0), Prereq: RCP-220, RCP-300; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-470 Cardiac Monitoring (1.5)
Surveys the theory and application of specialized diagnostic procedures, equipment and
monitoring techniques in cardiac medicine. Includes ECG and monitoring leads, basic
interpretation and dysrhythmia recognition, thermodilution cardiac output and oxymetrix-mixed
venous oxygen measurements, pulmonary artery catheters, hemodynamics and clinical
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application. Credits: 1.5, Hours: (1.5/0/0/0), Prereq: RCP-300, minimum C- grade in RCP-220,
and either BIO-161 or BIO-168/173 or BIO-177/180; Arts & Sciences Elec-tive Code: B
RCP-480 Advanced Cardiac Care (2.5)
Provides theory and laboratory practice in managing specific life-threatening cardiac
dysrhythmias resulting from myocardial infarction. Includes review of basic life support, use of
mechanical aids to establish an airway and maintain ventilation, ECG monitoring and
recognition of life-threatening dysrhythmias, cardiac defibrillation, establishing an intravenous
drug access, and initiating appropriate cardiac drug therapy. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (2/1/0/0),
Prereq: RCP-735, and minimum grade C- in RCP-470; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-510 Respiratory Care II (6)
Explores the theory, equipment operation and application with laboratory exercises in adult and
pediatric/neonatal mechanical ventilation, IPPB and arterial blood gas analysis. Examines the
effect of mechanical ventilation on acid base balance. Laboratory emphasis on the operation
and application of adult and pediatric/neonatal ventilators. Credits: 6, Hours: (4/4/0/0), Prereq:
CHM-110, RCP-220; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-610 Perinatology (2.5)
Explores fetal growth and development, assessment of the high-risk newborn and respiratory
care of the perinatal/pediatric patient. Reviews specific medical/surgical pathology in the
newborn and pediatric patient. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (2/1/0/0), Prereq: minimum grade C- in both
RCP-370 and RCP-510; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-730 Respiratory Care Clinic I (2.5)
Provides students with clinical practice in order to demonstrate proficiency in physical
assessment, oxygen therapy, airway care and IPPB skills. Students observe and practice
mechanical ventilation and arterial blood gas analysis skills. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (0/1/6/0),
Prereq: RCP-210; Coreq: RCP-220; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-735 Respiratory Care Clinic II (6.5)
Provides students an opportunity to maintain proficiency in RC Clinic I skills and demonstrate
proficiency in ventilation and arterial blood gas analysis. Provides an opportunity to practice
pediatric respiratory care, hemodynamic monitoring and demonstrate proficiency in pulmonary
function testing. Students observe diagnostic techniques in ECG, cardiac catheterization lab
and bronchoscopy lab. Credits: 6.5, Hours: (0/1/18/0), Prereq: RCP-510, RCP-730; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-740 Respiratory Care Clinic III (6.5)
Provides students an opportunity to maintain proficiency in RC Clinics I and II skills,
demonstrate proficiency in pediatric/perinatal respiratory care, practice clinical education
techniques and observe management skills. Credits: 6.5, Hours: (0/1/18/0), Prereq: RCP-735;
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
RCP-850 Respiratory Care III (2.5)
Surveys the theory and application of specialized diagnostic procedures, equipment and
monitoring techniques in pulmonary medicine and critical care. Includes bronchoscopy,
oximetry, capnography and transcutaneous monitoring. Explores the elements of pulmonary
rehabilitation with laboratory exercises in breathing retraining. Examines the theory and
operation of pleural drain-age systems. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (2/1/0/0), Prereq: RCP-510; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
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RCP-890 Respiratory Care Applications (2)
Culminates the learning activities of the previous five semesters of study in respiratory care.
Integrates the theory and application of respiratory care to focus on case management, clinical
problem solving and clinical simulation. Case discussions will selectively cover the spectrum of
cardiopulmonary disorders for both pediatric and adult patients. Credits: 2, Hours: (1/2/0/0),
Prereq: RCP-380, RCP-610, RCP-735; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B; Comments: Must
pass RCP-735 with a C- or better to enroll in RCP-890
RCP-924 Honors Project (1)
Allows a qualified honors student to pursue a special concentration of study under the guidance
of a faculty member. Requires completion of an honors project contract. May be taken more
than once. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences Elective
Code: A; Comments: Requires approval of supervising professor and dean
RCP-928 Independent Study (1-3)
Provides readings, papers and basic research or other projects under the individual guidance of
a staff member. Credits: 1, Hours: (1/0/0/0), Prereq: none; Coreq: none; Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: A; Comments: Permission of instructor, dean
ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE
HUMANITIES REQUIREMENT
Students may select from the following courses to meet the 3-semester credit hour requirement.
Courses in italics are also Associate of Arts core courses.
Courses with a (D) are approved Diversity courses.
ART
ART-101 Art Appreciation
ART-203 Art History I
ART-204 Art History II
ART-173 Ceramics
ART-133 Drawing
ART-143 Painting
ART-157 Printmaking
ART-163 Sculpture
ART-184 Photography
ART-186 Digital Photography
ART-301 Design Fundamentals
ART-420 Intro to Glass
COMMUNICATION
ENG-221 Creative Writing
DRAMA
DRA-101 Introduction to Theatre
DRA-130 Acting I
DRA-162 Technical Theatre
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
ASL-141 or ASL-171 American Sign Lanaguage I or II (D)
FLS-118 Spanish for Professionals: Hospitality
FLS-128 Conversational Spanish
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FLC-141 or FLC-142 Elementary Chinese I or II
FLF-141 or FLF-142 Elementary French I or II (all 4 credits)
FLS-141 or FLS-142 Elementary Spanish I or II (D)
FLG-141 or FLG-142 Elementary German I or II (D)
HUMANITIES
HUM-116 Encounters in Humanities
CLS-180 American Pluralism
ANT-105 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (D)
HUM-105 Working in America
CLS-190 Culture and Technology
CLS-192 Communication & Culture
DRA-116 Film Analysis
DRA-117 Film Topics
DRA-125 Introduction to Play Analysis
HUM-123 U.S. Film History
HUM-124 World Film History
HUM-142 Popular Culture
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
BUS-223 Perspectives in International Studies
GLS120 Education Experience Abroad
MKT-187 Perspectives in International Marketing
CLS-140 Understanding Cultures: The Mideast (D)
CLS-151 Understanding Cultures: Latin America (D)
CLS-159 Understanding Cultures: Indigenous Central America (D)
CLS-167 Understanding Cultures: Modern China (D)
CLS-165 Understanding Cultures: Modern Japan (D)
CLS-171 Understanding Cultures: Sub-Saharan Africa (D)
LITERATURE (note: most LIT courses have a pre-requisite of ENG-105 Composition I)
LIT-203 Forms of Literature: The Story Cycle
LIT-204 Forms of Literature: Nonfiction
LIT-205 Forms of Literature: Drama
LIT-206 Forms of Literature: Fiction
LIT-207 Forms of Literature: Poetry
LIT-208 Forms of Literature: New Media
LIT-209 Forms of Literature: Film Adaptation
LIT-222 Literature & Culture: American Dreams (D)
LIT-226 Literary Themes: Search for Identity
LIT-224 Literature and Culture: Women and Work (D)
LIT-225 Literary Themes: Beyond Bartelby
LIT-227 World Poetry
LIT-105 Children's Literature
LIT-158 Literature of the African Peoples (D)
LIT-945 Selected Topics
MUSIC
MUA-101- Applied Voice (lower level 1 or 2 credit*)
MUA-119- Class Piano- 1 credit*
MUA-147- Applied Instrument** (private music lessons for beginning students, 1 or 2 credits*)
MUA-300–MUA-319 Applied Music (private music lessons for advanced students, 1 or 2
credits*)
MUS-100 Music Appreciation
MUS-127 Great Composers
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MUS-140 Concert Choir*
MUS-157 Vocal Jazz Ensemble*
MUS-145 Concert Band *
MUS-150 Chamber Ensemble - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-163 Instrumental Jazz Ensemble*
MUS-165 Jazz Combo - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-207 Intro to Film Music
MUS-208 American Popular Music & Jazz
MUS-209 Topics in Western Music History
*(A total of 3 credit hours are required)
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION
PHI-101 Introduction to Philosophy
PHI-111 Basic Reasoning
PHI-105 Introduction to Ethics
PHI-125 Native American Philosophies (D)
PHI-126 Chinese Philosophies (D)
PHI-130 Philosophy of Human Nature
PHI-135 Multicultural Ethics (D)
PHI-150 Social and Political Philosophy
PHI-160 Environmental Ethics
REL-101 Survey of World Religions
REL-120 Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (D)
REL-125 Introduction to Islam (D)
REL-130 Introduction to Religions of the East (D)
REL-140 Religions in the United States
REL-145 Introduction to Christianity
HISTORY
HIS-121 Ancient Mediterranean World
HIS-122 Europe in the Age of Monarchy
HIS-123 Europe in the Age of Revolution
HIS-124 Europe in the Age of Nationalism
HIS-135 Modern World Military History
HIS-151 U.S. History to 1877
HIS-152 U.S. History since 1877
HIS-221 Holocaust and Genocide in Memory and Literature (D)
HIS-254 American Indian History (D)
HIS-291 History of Science
**Instrument choices: Baritone, Bassoon, Cello, Clarinet, Drum Set, Flute, French Horn, Guitar,
Oboe, Organ, Piano, Saxophone, String Bass, Synthesizer, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Viola,
Violin
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ESTIMATED PROGRAM COSTS
SEMESTER
Credit hours per semester
PREREQS
Respiratory Therapist
Entry: Fall
FALL
SPRING
SUMMER
FALL
SPRING
TOTAL
10
17.5
15.5
10
15.5
14
82.5
$1,480.00
$2,590.00
$2,294.00
$1,480.00
$2,294.00
$2,072.00
$12,210.00
College Fees:
Tuition
Health exams/X-ray HepB Vac.
Program Fees:
Textbooks
ACLS Certification
Instruction Supplies
Uniform/Name Tag
Clinic Travel
Clinic Parking
Clinic Background Check
U of I Conference (2 days)
State Conference (3 days)
Lindsey Jones Seminar (3 days)
$350.00
$190.00
$275.00
$2,303.00
$65.00
$318.00
$115.00
$420.00
$840.00
$75.00
$140.00
$380.00
$275.00
National Certification Exam &
State fees (Required)
$480.00
$480.00
Written Registry Exam (highly
recommended)
$400.00
$400.00
$190.00
$4,372.00
$190.00
$18,561.00
Iowa State Licensure
TOTALS:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
$500.00
$350.00
$710.00
$560.00
$213.00
$120.00
$150.00
$115.00
$48.00
$40.00
$40.00
$200.00
$65.00
$40.00
$180.00
$280.00
$180.00
$280.00
$60.00
$280.00
$75.00
$70.00
$70.00
$190.00
$1,980.00
$4,060.00
$3,432.00
$1,733.00
$2,984.00
Health insurance is required for this program. It is estimated to cost approximately $800
per semester
Travel, parking and housing expenses for clinic courses will vary depending on the
location of the clinical
Tuition is based on Fall 2014 at $145*/credit hour
Textbook prices are subject to change
Health exams are estimated costs
Tuition based on Fall 2014 for non-resident students is $175*/credit hour
Tuition based on Fall 2014 for international students is $290*/credit hour
ADVISING SHEET
To be eligible for acceptance into the program you must do three (3) things:
1. Complete an Application for Admission
2. Take the Compass Test (or ACT). Students with degrees are exempt but we must have
proof of your degree.
3. Attend a Program Conference
4. Complete all Prerequisite Course Work
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Before we can properly advise you, it is essential that you take the COMPASS placement test
or that we have a record of your current ACT scores. If your ACT math score is 17 or less, you
must take the math portion of the COMPASS test.
To help you succeed in the Respiratory Therapist Program you will receive a strong foundation
in basic science. Your knowledge and skills in math will better prepare you to understand the
science. Intermediate Algebra or Survey of Math (4 credit hrs) are our required math
courses.
In order to register for Survey of Math (4 credit hrs), you must score at least 50 on the
COMPASS pre-algebra math test. In order to register for Intermediate Algebra (4 credit
hrs), you must score at least 50 on the COMPASS algebra math test. If you score lower
than 50 on the COMPASS math test, you have several options:
1. If you are only a few points away from 50, you can review basic algebra on your own, and
retake the COMPASS math test.
2. If you have had some algebra but need a thorough review, take Prep for College Math to
upgrade your math skills.
3. Better math students can substitute Intermediate College Algebra or College Survey to
Math (4.0 credit hrs), Finite Math or a higher level math course.
Help yourself by taking some courses ahead of time.
Following is a list of the first semester courses in the Respiratory Therapist Program. The (**)
items are Prerequisite Course work (Required to be completed before entering into the R.T.
program). All other (*) course work can be completed within the designated semester or prior to
that given semester. All (*) items MUST be completed either before or during the given
semester and passed with a C- or higher to be able to enroll into subsequent semester course
work.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
**Basic Anatomy and Physiology (3.0 credit hrs)
**Introduction to Chemistry (3.0 credit hrs)
**Microbiology (4.0 credit hrs)
*Health Skills I (1.0 credit hr)
*Professionals in Health (2.0 credit hrs)
*Medical Terminology (4.0 credit hrs.)
*Survey of Math or Intermediate Algebra (4.0 credit hrs.)
*Introduction to Psychology (3.0 credit hrs.)
*Fundamentals of Oral Communication (3.0 credit hrs.)
*Humanities Elective (3.0 credit hrs.)
**All are mandatory prerequisites to get into the Respiratory Therapist Program.
You may also take any of the other courses on the curriculum sheet in the Program Handbook
that are marked with an asterisk (*).
MINIMUM GRADE REQUIREMENTS
Please note that a minimum grade of C minus (C-) is required in the following courses:
•
•
•
Basic Anatomy & Physiology
Intro to Chemistry
Microbiology
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All core RT classes must be passed with a minimum grade of C minus (C-) or you will be
removed from the program and asked to return in the given semester a year from the
time of drop out. All Respiratory courses need to be taken in successive curricular order.
If a student does not pass an R.T. course with a C- or better within that given semester, they will
be asked to stop out of the program. A studies in Health Science may be created as a means
for student success. Studies in Health Science may only be granted at the discretion of
Kirkwood Community College and the R.T. Program Director.
Kirkwood’s Respiratory Therapy program assists with providing Registered Respiratory
Therapists in Tutoring Services 2071 Cedar Hall (main campus) and 112 Credit Center (Iowa
City campus). This is a FREE service for you! Please utilize!!
Other recommendations for new Respiratory Therapist Students:
CPR must be taken before you begin your first clinical course. The following CPR courses
are acceptable for the Allied Health programs at Kirkwood.
ORGANIZATION
American Heart Association
(2 yr certification)
CPR COURSE
BLS Healthcare Provider or
Healthcare Provider CPR
American Red Cross
CPR for Professional Rescuer or CPR
Instructor
EMP Course
BLSPRO Includes First Aid
Call Kirkwood Continuing Education at (319) 398-5529 for CPR course information.
Contact the Program Director, in 2164 Linn Hall, to help you plan course work.
Call (319) 398-5520
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Section IIIB
CLASSROOM/LAB/CLINIC
OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT
The faculty recognizes that students may need to work part-time to help support themselves
while in school. The burden of work on top of studies can be very tiring and stressful. If a
student can afford not to work, this is the best option to maintain physical and emotional wellbeing. Scheduling work around classes becomes more difficult when students begin clinical
rotations. Students are scheduled for both day and evening clinics with an occasional night
rotation for added experiences. It is impossible for the program to alter clinical assignments to fit
the work schedules of students. Please don't ask!
ATTENDANCE / PUNCTUALITY
Students are expected to attend all sessions of classes for which they are enrolled. Absences
shall in no way lessen student responsibility for meeting the requirements of any class.
Students should call and/or e-mail in the event of unavoidable absence, prior to the start of
class time.
Attendance and punctuality in all courses will be assessed based upon a program competency.
Each instructor will determine the extent to which dependability will be assessed for his/her
particular course. Please refer to the attendance policy for further expected conduct. This
documentation will be signed every semester as a means of clear communication to this
expectation.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Besides college wide organizations, each Respiratory Therapist class has the option to form a
club in order to raise funds for state respiratory care conferences, for service projects, and for
extracurricular activities. Usually each class will elect a class president and treasurer, and
collect dues. Clubs requesting official recognition (by the Executive Board of the Student
Association) must have a faculty advisor and will have a representative on the Inter-Club
Council.
CLINICAL ASSIGNMENTS
Clinical assignments will be determined by the Clinical Coordinator. Students will rotate among
the following affiliate hospitals:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Marshalltown Medical Center, Marshalltown, Ia.
Virginia Gay Medical Center, Vinton, Ia.
CarePro Home Health Care, Cedar Rapids, Ia.
University of Iowa Hospital and clinics, Iowa City, Ia.
Veterans Affairs Hospital, Iowa City, Ia.
Mercy Hospital, Iowa City, Ia.
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
St. Luke’s Hospital, Cedar Rapids, Ia.
Dubois Long Term Acute Care Center, St. Luke’ Hospital, Cedar Rapids, Ia.
Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids, Ia.
Sleep Lab (EISC) Cedar Rapids, Ia.
Hammer Medical Coralville, Ia.
Direct physician clinical rounding (As assigned per given semester)
Direct Medical Director Collaboration (as assigned per each given semester)
Mercy Medical Clinton; Clinton, Ia
Our goal is to provide approximately the same experience for all students.
The majority of clinical assignments will be in Iowa City. During clinics the expense of
commuting plus parking fees can be significant; $20.00 for a 12-hour shift. Please, be prepared
for this added expense. Car-pooling is strongly encouraged.
Clinic can be both an enjoyable as well as a richly productive learning experience. To get the
most out of this experience, please be open to a variety of learning opportunities.
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY/CLINIC POLICIES
Children are not allowed in the classroom, lab or clinic sites at any time. Cellular phones and
audible pagers must be turned off during class time and are not allowed in the clinic settings.
Students may not operate laboratory equipment or participate in any activity that has a potential
for injury without an instructor present. Materials utilized in the classroom, lab or clinic may not
be removed and are to be returned to their proper location. Students must comply with the
hazardous waste policies presented in lab and in the syllabus. If student is excessively absent
a success contract may be required for the student to continue in the program.
**Please note; Respiratory Therapy students must NEVER be substituted or utilized as paid
staff! This is a CoARC and Kirkwood Respiratory Therapy policy that must always be followed.
Should you be confronted with this request please call the designated paid clinical faculty
immediately. All numbers and contact information are located in your clinical handbooks and
clinical schedules.
CLINICAL GRADING CRITERIA
Respiratory Care Clinic Carries a Pass (P)/No Pass (F)
A Pass grade requires completion of all assignments as noted in the Clinical Guidelines and
compliance with the stated Attendance Policy for this rotation. This compliance is measured by
the adjunct faculty, clinical faculty appointees (CFA’s) and staff therapists in our clinical
affiliates. A Pass grade also requires satisfactory compliance with the objectives as stated in the
course syllabus. No Pass (F) will severely limit the ability of a student to continue on in the
program and will require waiting a year to reenter clinics.
It should be understood by each student that while in clinic the CFA (Clinical Faculty Appointee)
or staff therapist to whom the student is assigned is the primary clinical preceptor for the day. As
such, it is expected that the student will accord this person the same professional consideration,
courtesy, and respect which is granted to any other classroom instructor or clinical faculty
member.
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It is the philosophy of the program that clinical resource is primarily for the benefit and growth of
the student. To this end the following policy has been instituted for the rare occasion in which a
student receives an unsatisfactory evaluation by a clinical instructor, CFA, or assigned staff
therapist.
If a student receives an unsatisfactory evaluation during the course of the semester, the student
will meet with the Director of Clinical Education and Program Director to discuss the evaluation
and develop a remediation plan. Should the unsatisfactory evaluation be deemed harmful
and/or violate the clinical contract signed, one could be dismissed upon the receipt of one
unsatisfactory evaluation based upon the violation. If an “F” (No Pass) is earned the student will
be dismissed from the Respiratory Therapy Program with re-entry to occur at the beginning of
the fall semester, starting with the freshmen semester curriculum.
CLINICAL COMPETENCIES
All clinical competencies must be documented in DataArc. It is the students responsibility to
complete all Clinical Competencies assigned for the semester or they will earn an Incomplete
(IC) as their clinical course grade. This means that you will not be able to advance to the next
given semester until they are completed. Program completion for on time graduation will be in
question should this occur.
*Please reference the Clinical Code of Conduct for further details*
If a student receives an additional (meaning (1) or more) unsatisfactory evaluations during the
course of the semester, the student will receive a No Pass (F) for that clinical semester. An
earned “F” ensures the student will be dismissed from the Respiratory Therapy Program with reentry to occur at the beginning of the fall semester, starting with the freshmen semester
curriculum.
CLINICAL ATTENDANCE POLICY
Each student is expected to follow the established clinical schedule each semester.
•
•
•
All traded days must be made 24 hours in advance of the clinical day or the trade will not
be granted
All traded days must be granted by the Director of Clinical Education or the Program
Director only
All participants of any traded days must have verbal or written communication to validate
awareness of the trade before a trade will be granted.
Sick Days
(1) day per semester will be allowed for sick leave; unless it is summer clinicals in which NO
missed days are allowed.
Any additional missed clinic days will be required to be made up within the clinical scheduled
time frame. The clinical day (s) needing to be made up will be facilitated through the Director of
Clinical Education or Program Director. The made of day (s) will be facilitated through the
missed clinical site of the occurrence.
REPORTING ABSENCES
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All absences must be reported to the Director of Clinical Education or Program Director
respective of their clinically assigned day.
a. If you are going to miss clinic, call the appropriate clinical site, along with the Kirkwood
Clinical Faculty member to report your absence. First failure to call will result in a written
warning; second failure to call will result in an earned “F” for that clinical semester. This
means dismissal from the Respiratory Therapy Program with re-entry to occur at the
beginning of the fall semester, beginning with the freshmen semester.
PROCEDURE PROCESS REPORTING ABSENCES and TARDINESS
All absences must be reported to the Director of Clinical Education or Program Director
respective of their clinically assigned day.
a. If you are going to miss clinic, call the appropriate clinical site, along with the Kirkwood
Clinical Faculty member to report your absence. First failure to call will result in a
written warning; second failure to call will result in an earned “F” for that clinical
semester. This means dismissal from the Respiratory Therapy Program with re-entry to
occur at the beginning of the fall semester, beginning with the freshmen semester.
b. If you are going to be late/tardy to a clinical site the following steps must be followed;
• Call clinical cell phone first to report late/tardiness. The Program
Director/Director of Clinical Education (which ever faculty member is on that
day) will direct you as to your next steps. (ie; continue on to clinical site or not
to attend clinical)
• Call clinical site to report your tardiness/late arrival AFTER communicating
with the person carrying the clinical cell phones (ie; PD or DCE) to report
your attendance or absence of.
c. PD or DCE will follow up with an e-mail and/or e-mail to the clinical site affected by
tardiness/absence after direct communication has taken place prior to your arrival at the
clinical site.
d. In the event of an automobile breakdown en route to clinic the student should call the
clinic site and Clinical Faculty on for that day as soon as possible to report the situation
and to inquire if they may still attend that clinic.
*Refer to the Clinical Code of Conduct for further reference*
Clinical Resource Sheets
a. Turn in all clinical paperwork on time
Ex. You will be granted a one week grace period should you forget to turn in your
clinical sheets from the prior week’s clinical rotation. (The clinical sheets can be
scanned, e-mailed, faxed or brought in my fellow classmates should your absence be
unavoidable for Respiratory Care Clinic Discussion class). Any additional occurrences
of this action in that given semester will require a makeup of that clinical day.
b. Complete ALL DataARC requirements for that given day on time!
*Refer to the Clinical Code of Conduct for further Reference*
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Clinical Absenteeism
a. If you are going to miss clinic, call the appropriate clinical site, along with the Kirkwood
Clinical Faculty member to report your absence. First failure to call will result in a written
warning; second failure to call will result in an earned “F” for that clinical semester. This
means dismissal from the Respiratory Therapy Program with re-entry to occur at the
beginning of the fall semester, beginning with the freshmen semester.
b. Do not leave the assigned clinical site, assigned clinic unit, or assigned clinical facility
early. If you the student leave the clinical site, assigned unit, or facility early without
prior discussion with the clinical faculty an earned “F” will be awarded for that clinical
semester.
c. The Kirkwood Clinical Faculty member needs to be called for prior approval before
leaving a clinical site, assigned clinic unit, or assigned clinical facility. IF this does not
occur an earned “F” for that clinical semester will occur, for this is viewed as
abandonment of a site. This action will result in dismissal from the Respiratory Therapy
Program with re-entry to occur at the beginning of the fall semester, beginning with the
freshmen semester curriculum.
d. Do not have the adjunct or faculty preceptor sign your student sheets until you have
filled in the procedures for the day, and completed the expected clinically assigned day.
Any falsification of documentation will result in an earned “F” for that clinical semester.
This means dismissal from the Respiratory Therapy Program with re-entry to occur at
the beginning of the fall semester, beginning with the freshmen semester.
*Refer to the Clinical Code of Conduct for further Reference
CLINICAL PREPAREDNESS FOR A Clinical Site
a. Arrive at your clinical site dressed and ready to receive report on time
• This means have your notepad and pen ready to take report
• Refer to the Clinical Code of Conduct for Reference
*Please reference the Clinical Code of Conduct for further details*
DRESS CODE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
All students are expected to wear professional attire and be well groomed.
Students must purchase a lab jacket if required by the clinic facility.
Students may wear scrubs if the facility authorizes it, the student may be responsible
for purchasing scrubs or they may be provided by the site.
Each day of clinic the student must wear a Kirkwood nametag identifying you as a
student. The facility may require an additional facility nametag (i.e. University of Iowa)
Should the student not have the proper name tag on, given the site, the student will be
asked to leave and that clinical day will be made up, and the student will receive a
written warning. Any further violations will result in a No Pass “F” with re-entry to occur
fall semester of the freshmen year.
All students must meet the following general standards, in addition to any additional
requirements of the assigned clinical facility.
a.
No gum chewing or chewing tobacco allowed.
b.
Fingernails must be neatly trimmed. No false nails or acrylic overlays are
permissible at any clinic site. No decals or nail art permissible.
c.
Make-up and cologne should be applied minimally.
d.
Facial hair must be short and neatly trimmed.
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e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.
l.
m.
n.
A single neck chain may be worn.
One conservative earring per ear is permissible (no larger than the size of a
nickel). Earrings in visible places other than the ear are NOT permissible. No
jewelry is allowed in or on the mouth, lips, or eyes.
One ring per hand is permissible, others should be removed (a wedding set is
counted as one ring)
Dangle necklaces, earrings and bracelets are not permitted.
Hair should be clean and neatly groomed, long hair should be secured away from
the face. Dreadlocks or unnatural hair colors are not allowed.
A watch with a second hand is required for all facilities.
No open toed shoes or high heeled shoes allowed. Tennis shoes are ONLY
allowed if the facility encourages wearing them. If tennis shoes are worn they
must be neat and clean in appearance and have no holes.
Shorts, sweatshirts or T-shirts are not allowed, SCRUBS WILL BE WORN AT
ALL TIMES.
At no time should student’s undergarments be visible.
No visible tattoos are allowed. If present they must be covered at all times so
they are not visible. No kinds of body art is permissible, must be covered at all
times.
SEMINARS AND CONFERENCES
Students may earn clinic credit by attending respiratory care seminars/conferences or
participating in other approved community events. NOTE: Prospective future attendance at a
conference/seminar will not erase a failing grade already earned for that semester. Verification
of attendance or participation is required. Written synopses of lectures attended or participation
in community activities must be submitted to the Director of Clinical Education and Program
Director for credit to be given. If a conference or seminar is missed due to unavoidable
circumstances and is communicated to the respective faculty member and/or lack of
communication on the students behalf with the Program Director and Director of clinical
Education, a 25 page 10 sourced research paper will be earned by the student should they
decide seminars and conferences are not an important component of their education. The
paper must be properly cited and must comply with all plagiarism standards as cited by
Kirkwood Community College. There are a minimum of two conferences/seminars that require
participation by the student. The two minimum required conferences are the University of Iowa
Conference and the Iowa Lung State Conference. This information was discussed at the
program conference prior to admission into the program and should be understood that it is
required for graduation success from Kirkwood Community College’s Respiratory Therapy
program. Conference attendance is reflected in your professionalism grade and community
involvement expectation of this program.
EXAMINATIONS
Examinations will be scheduled in advance. If you are unable to attend a class on an exam day,
you are expected to contact the instructor before the exam is given to arrange an alternate time.
A student is allowed one (1) missed exam per semester, per course; all other missed exams will
be a zero (0). Any missed exam in a given semester must be made up within 48 hours of the
original test date or the missed test will be granted a zero (0).
An additional point value of 1-5 % of overall final course grade will be awarded for taking ALL
exams on time in any given Respiratory Therapy course. The exact % will be determined by the
faculty member teaching the course, and may differ in each Respiratory Therapy course. The
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% used will depend on total course point availability from distribution in homework, labs, exams,
conferences, attendance, and professionalism.
UNIFORMS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
During the spring semester of the first year, students will start attending clinical sites. A long
white lab coat (mid-thigh length) is required. The student must also purchase a minimum of 2
sets (tops & bottoms) of scrub uniforms to be worn under the lab coat. The color is pewter grey
and will have to match according to the color that is provided to you in the Book Store. Each
student is responsible for having a clean uniform and lab coat each clinic day. Additionally, a
nametag stating name and Respiratory Therapist Student must be worn on breast pocket.
While in clinic, you will be expected to carry a stethoscope and a watch (with second hand).
Tennis shoes are required. Students are asked to refrain from wearing any perfumes or
colognes which might be offensive to patients and/or staff.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Students in clinic will maintain strict confidentiality of patient information. This includes oral,
written and computerized information. This is an important attribute of professionalism. A
student violating this policy may be asked to leave the clinic site, jeopardizing continuation in the
program. Students in health care facilities may be asked to sign a confidentiality statement.
In accordance with provisions of public law 93-380 as amended (P.L. 935668), the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act 1974, commonly known as the “Buckley Amendment”, all
faculty and staff have the responsibility to maintain confidentiality pertaining to student records.
1.
No information will be released about student grades to a third party unless the student
has given written consent. “Third party” includes parents, family members, and potential
employers.
2.
It is the policy of this program and the Allied Health Department not to release directory
information (phone numbers & addresses) without prior consent.
PROFESSIONALISM
Students are representatives of their programs and future professions, and as such, are
expected to be professional in the classroom and at the clinic sites. The conditions of patients
should be discussed only with the professional personnel directly connected with the care of the
patient. A discussion of personal information of patients in public places is a violation of the
code of ethics. Professional relations must be observed during clinic. Students are not to leave
their assigned clinic area without permission from their instructor. All accidents or errors that
occur during clinic must be reported to the instructor. Students are NOT to sign or witness the
signature of patients at any time. Misconduct or negligence in complying with the rules and
regulations of the program will be considered unethical practice.
If a clinic asks a student to leave due to inappropriate behavior or unsafe practice, the student
will be granted a verbal and/or written warning depending on the severity of the misconduct,
upwards of dismissal from the program.
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE
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Students within Allied Health programs must complete compliance variables in order to
participate in clinical experiences. The compliance process is comprised of variables in three
general areas. These areas are Background Checks, Health Records and Immunizations
and Additional Compliance Certifications. All three areas of the Compliance process are now
housed through an online vendor called Certified Background. The website for Certified
Background is www.certifiedbackground.com.
Students set up, pay for, and use a certified background account to house all variables of the
compliance process. On your program website, you will find information on each general area of
the compliance process. Specific information and directions to complete the process are listed
on the Compliance website. It is the responsibility of you as the student to complete the
processes by the due dates listed. Below are steps on how to find these directions:
•
•
•
•
Go to www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Find your Program link on the Allied Health Homepage
Find the Current Students link on your Program Homepage
Find the Compliance Guide line on the Current Students homepage
You will want to familiarize yourself with the content on this website and use it as your first
resource when looking for answers to your clinical compliance questions. All information
regarding the Compliance process will be discussed during your Technical Program Orientation.
If you have any questions please make sure you work with your Program Director and Allied
Health Department personnel.
Complete up-to-date information on all requirements for clinic compliance is on your program
website at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. It is the student’s responsibility to read and follow
and meet all requirements and deadlines listed.
FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS
If a student has a felony conviction, it may prevent them from being eligible for licensure or
certification and it may adversely affect employment opportunities. Student with a felony
conviction are advised to contact the respective licensing/certification board immediately.
Many clinical agencies require background/criminal checks of all their employees and therefore
will require such checks on all students before respective clinical sites. All Respiratory Therapy
students will be required to complete a criminal background check prior to starting the program.
IF the student’s background check reveals incidents not acceptable to the clinical agency, it will
be necessary for the student to withdraw from the program.
The student will receive information about the criminal check process during the program
conference (prior to admission into the program), at registration, and program orientation. It will
be the student’s responsibility to complete the process. Please refer to the clinical compliance
section on the Respiratory Therapy Program website for further details.
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR) POLICY
1.
All students involved in direct patient care will be required to show documentation of
completion of CPR for Health Care Provider training prior to any patient contact and
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2.
maintain a current card for the duration of their program. Each student will need to
provide the required documentation each semester. Students who fail to provide
documentation of current CPR training will not be permitted in clinical areas.
Medical exceptions to this requirement may be considered by the program.
INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE
All students must attend an annual OSHA training session on Standard Precautions in
preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens and tuberculosis. The initial training is provided
in the Professionals in Health course. Students who do not complete this initial training must
see their program coordinator to schedule the training. Failure to maintain current OSHA
training will result in being dismissed from any course with this requirement.
Students may be participating in activities within courses that have potential for exposure to
infectious diseases including, but not limited to, Hepatitis B and HIV. All measures must be
exercised to minimize risk. Students who fail to comply, jeopardizing the safety of others or
themselves, may be asked to withdraw from the course.
In the event of a significant exposure; punctured by contaminated needles or instruments or
exposed to blood or body fluids (e.g., an occupational incident involving eye, mouth, other
mucous membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially
infectious material, including saliva), the student must report the incident immediately to the
instructor or clinical supervisor and file an incident report with the college. Follow-up evaluation
will be required consistent with Federal regulations. A portion of the medical expenses may be
covered by Kirkwood. Students must be practicing standard precautions to collect insurance
payment for the fees involved.
ILLNESS/ACCIDENTS
Kirkwood Security, 319-389-1774, should be contacted immediately after an accident has
occurred or been reported so they can respond and create an accident report.
LATEX ALLERGIES: Students reporting a latex or powder allergy must see the Campus Health
Nurse. Campus Health is located in Iowa Hall. It is the student’s responsibility to follow
appropriate protocol for documentation and accommodations.
If a student in a High Risk on-campus program is injured:
1. An Illness and injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24
hrs.
2. He/she must be seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
3. Bills for the student’s visit should be sent to Risk Management Specialist, 2nd Floor
Kirkwood Hall. We do not tell the student that the bill will be taken care of by
Kirkwood. We only can say that a claim will be filed. The High Risk policy has a
$10 deductible which is the responsibility of the student.
If a student is injured off campus in a non-paid clinical /internship:
1. In the event of a significant exposure or injury during clinic experience, the student must
report the incident immediately to their clinic/practicum instructor and the clinical agency.
2. An Illness injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24 hours.
This form is available at www.kirkwood.edu/campushealth.
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3. He/she must been seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
4. Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found
legally liable to do so.
If a student or Visitor is injured on campus and is NOT in a High Risk on Campus Program:
1. An Illness/Injury report must be filled out and turned in within 24 hours.
2. If further medical attention is needed, he/she must be seen by his/her primary care
physician or walk –in clinic of his/her choice.
3. Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found
legally liable to do so.
BBP POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP
Bloodborne pathogen exposure is defined as contact (skin, eye, mucous membrane or
parenteral) with:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Blood
Body tissues or organs
Semen
Vaginal secretions
Amniotic fluid
Cerebral spinal fluid
Pericardial fluid
Peritoneal fluid
Pleural fluid
Synovial fluid
or other body fluids containing visible blood through injuries from contaminated sharps, breaks
in the skin, skin conditions or mucous membranes.
OSHA requires documentation of the route of exposure, circumstances in which it occurred,
identification and documentation of the source individual (if feasible), testing of the source
individual’s blood for HBV and HIV infectivity if feasible and unknown upon exposure,
notification of results of the source HBV and HIV status to the exposed employee (within
applicable state laws / regulations), collection and testing of the exposed employees blood for
HIV and HBV, documentation of follow-up treatment including test results, prophylactic
medications, counseling and evaluation of reported illnesses.
At KCC, Campus Health is responsible for retaining all of the above documentation as part of
the employee’s medical file. Communication with the exposed employee about testing,
vaccination and medical conditions resulting from exposure should be discussed and
instructions provided in writing within 15 days of exposure.
Procedures Following an Exposure:
Low risk BBP exposure: When the potential for transmission of infectious agents is unlikely or
non-existent. This includes contact with urine, saliva, tears, sweat, sputum and stool which
contain no obvious blood, puncture or laceration from sharps not contaminated with blood or
body fluid, exposure of blood to intact skin, or puncture from a hollow point needle used to
administer fluids or medications into an IV line if no blood is visible in the IV tubing.
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Treatment: For these exposures, wash the affected area immediately. Your intact skin is a
protective barrier and follow up care is not necessary. Complete the Kirkwood Community
College Illness and Injury Report form and notify Campus Health of your low risk exposure.
High risk BBP exposure: When the incident poses a significant potential for the transmission
of infectious agents. This includes a break in the skin from any kind of a sharp (needle, lancet,
glass, surgical instrument) that is contaminated or likely contaminated with blood or body fluid /
tissue, contact with blood or body fluid into an open skin lesion, splashes of blood or bloody
material into or very near the eyes, nose, or mouth, CPR with direct mouth to blood contact, and
any other situation where there is a high probability of contamination.
Treatment:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
Report the incident to a clinical instructor or supervisor after cleaning the area.
For students, the clinical instructor will notify the clinical area supervisor of the incident.
The student should go to the ER of the facility in which the exposure occurred EXCEPT
for UIHC for testing. If at UIHC between the hours of 7:30 am – 4:30 pm M – F the
student needs to contact UEHC at 353-8753 to report exposure. If the exposure occurs
outside of these clinic times the student will need to contact UIHC Emergency
Department at 356-8753 to report exposure. If a student is at a facility that does not have
an ER they should go to the nearest ER that their personal insurance is covered by.
The clinical instructor or supervisor will start the following paperwork and send this with
the student / staff to the emergency room:
 A copy of the Kirkwood Community College Illness and Injury Report form.
 Body Fluid Exposure - Risk Management Form
 Name, address and phone of the source person (person who's blood or body fluid
you came in contact with, as they will be tested as well)
Student and / or source testing should be billed to the student with copies sent to:
Lara Buckles, Risk Management Specialist
Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Hall, 2nd Floor
6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
•
•
The exposed student must submit the above information to Campus Health at 132 Iowa
Hall via fax 319-398-7114 or e-mail fhealth@kirkwood.edu within 24 hours of the
exposure. Failure to submit these forms to Campus Health may cause the student to be
billed individually for the costs of the emergency room visit and lab fees. If additional
follow-up care and lab testing is necessary, the student should coordinate follow-up
visits with a health care provider of their choice. For students in qualified high risk
programs, Kirkwood carries a limited medical coverage policy with limits of $1,000 per
student with a $10 deductible that is the student’s responsibility. The paperwork must be
submitted and accepted before Kirkwood becomes responsible for any payment of bills.
We do not guarantee the bills will be taken care of.
OSHA requires all evaluations, follow-up, prophylactic treatment and testing be made
available at no cost to the employee.
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HEALTH INSURANCE
Some clinics require students to provide proof of medical insurance coverage prior to enrollment
in specific courses. Forms verifying coverage may be obtained from the program director or in
the Allied Health Department Office. The information provided will be sent to clinical agencies
requiring proof of health insurance.
WEATHER
The college may cancel or postpone classes due to weather conditions. This will be announced
on local Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo radio and TV stations. (Listen for Kirkwood
Community College NOT College Community Schools) Classes will not normally be made-up.
Any test or activities scheduled that day will be held on the next regular class day. If the college
delays the start time, classes will begin at that time, [even if it is in the middle of the normal
class time]. Faculty will provide instructions in the course syllabi for clinic courses and unusual
circumstances.
If students decide they cannot come to class or due to weather conditions in their area, the
appropriate faculty must be notified. Students are expected to make appropriate judgments
based on their situation. Each student situation will be evaluated individually by faculty.
Kirkwood campus closing due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances does NOT affect
the students’ ability to attend clinic and shall NOT be reason to miss clinic. Students will be
responsible for attending their clinic assignment. If you are commuting and weather
forecasts indicate a possible problem, please try to plan ahead and make arrangements to stay
within a minimal distance to the facility to minimize travel and missed clinic days.
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Section IIIC
REGISTRATION/GRADES
REGISTRATION
The sequence of courses in the program has been carefully planned to ensure the most
effective and efficient presentation of curriculum. Program advisors will assist students in
following the curriculum and registering for the proper course sections. Students, who plan to
transfer to a 4-year college, should meet with their advisor regarding transfer courses where
appropriate. Students will be notified of preregistration times. Students are responsible for
successful completion of prerequisite courses.
1. Registration is on-line via EagleNet.
2. The student must have no registration holds. Holds may be due to parking fines, library
fines, incomplete health physical or immunizations or outstanding financial obligations to
the college.
3. Students on academic probation or with an academic warning must meet with a
counselor in Student Development (115 Iowa Hall) before their registration can be
processed.
4. Complete all prerequisite course work.
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION
If it becomes necessary to drop or add a course after registration, the student must see their
advisor, complete a change of registration form and personally take it to the Enrollment Services
office (216 Kirkwood Hall). If circumstances prevent a student from continued attendance in a
course, a change of registration form must be completed. If a student does not continue to
attend a course, but fails to withdraw from the course, the instructor will have no choice but to
assign a failing grade. Each semester has a last day to drop classes indicated on the academic
calendar. The last day to drop is 75% through a course. See the academic calendar or course
syllabus for specific information. Refer to the Kirkwood Student Policies via the Current Student
link, www.kirkwood.edu/students for information regarding tuition reimbursement. Students who
do not complete the program in the recommended timeframe will be asked to retake or review
pre-clinical course in preparation for clinic.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to inform instructors well in advance of absences for extra-curricular
college activities. It is the student’s responsibility to make prior arrangements with all affected
faculty of expected course work. The student must complete all homework, study assignments,
reading assignments, quizzes, tests, and any other assignments, including all laboratory
expectations etc. within the time frame assigned by the given faculty member. No exceptions
will be granted from this expectation for the success of each student is our interest and following
through on this expectation represents workplace readiness and academic excellence.
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GRADES
Kirkwood uses a 4.0 grading system. Kirkwood grades and their meanings are given below:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
4.0
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
2.00
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0
P
Q
IC
E
T
N
W
X
O
Passing-credit
No credit
Incomplete
Excused Without Credit
Credit by Examination
Audit
Withdrew from Course
Course repeated
Original grade removed
The grades A, B, C, D, F, and FW are included in the computation of grade point average [see
college handbook for computing grade point average]
Grading scales for individual courses are found in each course syllabus.
GRADING PROGRAM POLICY:
Course grades will be based on the percent of total points achieved from exams, quizzes,
homework, discussion and/or lab assignments during a semester. The value of points achieved
from each area will be weighted at the discretion of the instructor.
A =
A- =
B+ =
B =
B- =
C+ =
C =
C- =
D+ =
D =
D- =
F =
93 - 100%
90 - 92.99%
87 - 89.99%
83 - 86.99%
80 - 82.99%
77.5 - 79.99%
75 - 77.49%
72.5 - 74.99%
70 - 72.49%
67.5 - 69.99%
65 – 67.49%
Less than 65%
Performance evaluations will be based on 100% proficiency in the specified task.
Courses with performance evaluations as part of the grade will require passing all
performance aspects of the course. Clinical courses will be graded according to the
P = Pass,
Q = No Credit criteria
**Some written exams may be given during the course of the program. All written exams
will be given on the main campus in the Testing Center.**
CLINICAL GRADING CRITERIA
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Respiratory Care Clinic Carries a Pass (P)/No Pass (F)
A Pass grade requires completion of all assignments as noted in the Clinical Guidelines and
compliance with the stated Attendance Policy for this rotation. This compliance is measured by
the adjunct faculty, clinical faculty appointees (CFA’s) and staff therapists in our clinical
affiliates. A Pass grade also requires satisfactory compliance with the objectives as stated in the
course syllabus. No Pass (F) will severely limit the ability of a student to continue on in the
program and will require waiting a year to reenter clinics.
It should be understood by each student that while in clinic the CFA (Clinical Faculty Appointee)
or staff therapist to whom the student is assigned is the primary clinical preceptor for the day. As
such, it is expected that the student will accord this person the same professional consideration,
courtesy, and respect which is granted to any other classroom instructor or clinical faculty
member.
It is the philosophy of the program that clinical resource is primarily for the benefit and growth of
the student. To this end the following policy has been instituted for the rare occasion in which a
student receives an unsatisfactory evaluation by a clinical instructor, CFA, or assigned staff
therapist.
If a student receives an unsatisfactory evaluation during the course of the semester, the student
will meet with the Program Director and Director of Clinical Education to discuss the evaluation
and develop a remediation plan for success. Should the unsatisfactory evaluation be deemed
harmful and/or violate the clinical contract signed, one could be dismissed upon the receipt of
one unsatisfactory evaluation based upon the violation. If an “F” (No Pass) is earned the
student will be dismissed from up to no re-entry will be granted at all based upon severity of
dismissal and harm deemed.
*Please reference the Clinical Code of Conduct for further details*
P
Pass
F
Fail
Clinical Competencies: All clinical competencies must be documented in DataArc. It is the
students responsibility to complete all Clinical Competencies assigned for the semester or they
will earn an Incomplete (IC) as their clinical course grade. This means that you will not be able
to advance to the next given semester until they are completed. Program completion for on
time graduation will be in question should this occur.
*Please reference the Clinical Code of Conduct for further details*
1. If a student receives an additional (meaning (1) or more) unsatisfactory evaluations
during the course of the semester, the student will receive a No Pass (F) for that
clinical semester. An earned “F” ensures the student will be dismissed from the
Respiratory Therapy Program with re- entry to occur at the beginning of the semester
they were dismissed.
*Please reference the Clinical Code of Conduct for further details*
FINAL SEMESTER CAPSTONE CLASS GRADING CRITERIA AND PROCESS
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How final grades are determined:
100% of the final grade is based on the accrued percentage of the total possible points on
written examinations, quizzes, writing/lab assignments, competencies, workshops, field trips,
conferences, and projects as may pertain to course material this includes but is not limited to;
chapter posttests/assigned homework. Punctuality and dependability (attendance) are
considered course expectations as preparation for career readiness.
**TMC Exam must be passed with a 78% or higher consistently by the instructed given date at
the beginning of the semester or an incomplete will be awarded to the student for the course.
The student will maintain an incomplete until the above percentage is met consistently on the
TMC exam. Student will be able to graduate formally from Kirkwood after passing the TMC
with the listed %.
A student success plan will be created should the student not be able to obtain the listed
percentage at the given date provided by the instructor at the beginning of the course.
**Simulation Testing will be done consistently throughout this course. The desired result is to
be passing all instructed simulations by the end of the term.
Course Grading:
Pass
Fail
IC
Incomplete
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY
What is Phi Theta Kappa?
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for students in two-year colleges. Kirkwood
Community College has an active chapter, named Alpha Eta Rho, headquartered in the Arts
and Humanities Department, 337 Cedar Hall.
What are the benefits?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Members are eligible for more than $37 million in scholarships at four-year institutions
nationwide when they transfer from Kirkwood. A complete list of scholarships can be
found on the PTK web site: www.ptk.org.
Members wear a gold honors stole and tassel at Commencement.
Members receive a gold PTK key lapel pin, membership certificate, and ID card.
Members are automatically recommended for the National Dean’s List.
Members may compete for other honors.
Phi Theta Kappa membership is noted on the Kirkwood transcript and the Phi Theta
Kappa seal appears on members’ Kirkwood diploma.
Best of all, members may join with other Alpha Eta Rho members in the activities of a
thriving local chapter, and may qualify to attend regional or national meetings.
What are the eligibility requirements?
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•
•
•
•
You must be enrolled in a regionally accredited institution pursuing an associate degree
You must have completed at least 12 transferable credit hours of coursework that may
be applied to an associate degree (part-time students may be eligible)
You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 to be a member and maintain a GPA of 3.3
You must adhere to the moral standards of the society
Both part-time and full-time students who have met all of the academic requirements are invited
to become members.
International students are welcome to become members. They must achieve the required GPA,
have accumulated the number of hours required by the college to designate full-time status, and
possess all rights of citizenship in their native land.
How much does membership cost?
As of fall semester 2013, membership in the local, regional, and national association will total
$70.00. A typical transfer scholarship to a Phi Theta Kappa member from a four-year college or
university will be from $500 - $5000—a good return on a $70 investment!
Is this only for arts and sciences students?
Definitely not. Members include students from all programs, all Kirkwood locations, daytime and
evening, full-time and part-time students. A non-active (registered) membership, also $70, is
available for students who cannot participate in chapter meetings or activities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT THE ARTS & HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT, 319-398-4913
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
College regulations require a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 to graduate with a
diploma or an AAS degree. Academic probation may be given for either a grade point average
of less than 2.0 in any given term, or for failure to maintain satisfactory progress. In light of
requirements for completion, failure to maintain satisfactory progress will be considered as a
GPA below 2.00 in any given semester, and/or a grade of "F" in any prerequisite course work. A
student on academic probation must maintain a GPA of 2.00 or greater the next semester.
Continuation in the program is contingent upon maintaining satisfactory progress during
"probationary status".
Our curriculum is sequenced and developed so that succeeding courses inherently require
successful completion of all preceding courses. When a student finds it impossible to complete
a course as scheduled in the curriculum, it generally means he or she must wait one year until
he or she can fit into the proper course sequencing again. Failure in any course will usually
prohibit registering for succeeding courses if prerequisites are not satisfied.
Please do all you can to keep up with the work. If you’re having trouble, let us know as soon as
possible so we may assist. We all want you to achieve your goal in the shortest possible time.
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM
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A student who finds it necessary to withdraw from the program may do so either through the
program director or Student Development (115 Iowa Hall). Please inform the program director of
your intent.
The program reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student whose health, work, or
conduct is determined to be detrimental to the health and safety of themselves, other students
or patients.
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM
Any student who drops out, stops out, or fails to complete the program in normal sequence may
apply for re-admission. Candidates for re-admission must present oral or written arguments in
support of their re-admission. A committee of program faculty will review each application for
re-admission. The faculty committee may recommend re-admission, denial of re-admission or
conditional re-admission.
If readmission is sought after exiting the program, the student will be required to fulfill the
current curriculum and program requirements for graduation. Readmission is contingent upon
available space in the class and completion of admission requirements.
See Kirkwood Student Policies under the Current Student link, www.kirkwood.edu/students for
other withdrawal and readmission policies, such as readmission following academic suspension.
PART-TIME STATUS
Students who are unable to complete the program in the normal sequence of courses must:
•
•
•
•
Meet with their program director and plan the sequence of courses.
Reapply for the next program start if they have not completed the first semester courses.
These students do not have priority over new applicants
If numerous students request to re-enter the program, the date of the application will be
used to select students accepted to register.
Registration in classes on a part-time basis is not guaranteed. Registration is on a space
available basis. Priority is given to students enrolled full-time with the intention of
completing the program requirements within the curriculum plan.
COMMUNICATIONS
Open, honest communication between students and faculty is extremely important. If students
encounter difficulty with the content and/or methods used in a particular course, it is the
student’s responsibility to make an appointment with the instructor during regular office hours. If
a conflict arises between the student and instructor and they are unable to resolve an issue, the
student should request a meeting with the program director.
Students are encouraged to carefully read their course syllabi for specific requirements and
policies applicable to specific courses.
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GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY
For concerns or appeals, students should first meet with the course instructor and then, if
necessary, the program director, then department dean. These concerns should be addressed
as soon as possible. Grade appeals must be presented within 60 days from the date of which
the grade was assigned. Refer to the Kirkwood Student Policies under the Current Student link,
www.kirkwood.edu/students for additional information.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to inform instructors well in advance of absences for extra-curricular
college activities. It is the student’s responsibility to make prior arrangements with all affected
faculty of expected course work. The student must complete all homework, study assignments,
reading assignments, quizzes, tests, and any other assignments, including all laboratory
expectations etc. within the time frame assigned by the given faculty member. No exceptions
will be granted from this expectation for the success of each student is our interest and following
through on this expectation represents workplace readiness and academic excellence.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Students are strongly encouraged to take full advantage of scholarships and student loans to
offset the cost of college. For more information about general scholarships, contact Kirkwood's
Financial Aid Office, 205 Kirkwood Hall.
A.A.R.C. - American Association for Respiratory Care is the professional organization for
respiratory care practitioners. Its purpose is to promote the field of respiratory therapy and
provide education and professional services to its members. Student membership is
encouraged.
I.S.R.C. - Iowa Society for Respiratory Care. The Iowa Society provides a means for sharing
events and concerns that affect respiratory therapy within the State. Membership is automatic if
a member of A.A.R.C. The I.S.R.C. also maintains a scholarship fund for respiratory therapy
students. Two $500 scholarships are available beginning each fall. Contact the program director
for information and an application. This scholarship is renewable for the 2nd year of the program.
I.L.A. - Iowa Lung Association. The Iowa Lung Association is a subsidiary of the American Lung
Association. The I.L.A. also maintains a scholarship fund for Respiratory Care students.
A.R.C.F. - American Respiratory Care Foundation. This association offers several different
scholarships.
ST.LUKE’S ALLIED HEALTH / NURSING SCHOLARSHIP.
For students enrolled in program technical courses who have an average program GPA of 2.5
or above. Students will receive a $500 award applied to the summer term. Applications open in
January with a March 15th deadline. An application form is available at the Financial Aid Office,
205 Kirkwood Hall.
ST. LUKE'S HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP.
For non-traditional students currently enrolled in the program who have an average GPA of 2.5
or above. Application must provide evidence of a permanent address in an area within
approximately a 50 mile radius of St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Awards provide
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tuition assistance for the following Fall and Spring semesters. Applications open in early spring
with a mid-March deadline. An application form is available at the Allied Health office, 221 Linn
Hall.
For further scholarship opportunities resource www.kirkwood.edu/currentstudents
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Section IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION
COMPLETION OF THE RESPIRATORY THERAPIST PROGRAM FOR
STUDENTS WITH ADVANCED STANDING
Students who have graduated from a technician level program or are transferring from a
therapist program have the opportunity of gaining "registry eligible" status. Students transferring
from an accredited technician level or therapist program will be admitted on a space available
basis if the following criteria are met:
1.
2.
3.
Application for Admission to Kirkwood.
Transcripts and ACT or COMPASS scores forwarded to the program director.
Minimum overall GPA of 2.25 in the program courses previously taken.
All technician transfer students must complete a minimum of 5 semester hours of clinical
experience required in our second year. Additional clinical experience may be required based
upon mutually agreed upon clinical needs.
ACADEMIC AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Students are expected to achieve and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.
All students graduating from this program must successfully complete all required program
courses and achieve a 2.0 cumulative grade - point average.
Beginning with the Class of 2014, a comprehensive exam will be given prior to graduation as
part of the course, RC Applications. Graduating students will be required to pass this exam at a
minimum proficiency of 78% (108 out of 140 questions). Any student who does not satisfy this
requirement will be required to remediate those content areas identified as “needing
improvement”. Furthermore, should the student not pass with a minimum proficiency of 78%
(108 out of 140 questions) an IC grade will be granted until the test is passed with minimum
proficiency.
**Simulation Testing will be done consistently throughout this course. The desired result is to
be passing all instructed simulations by the end of the term.
No “D” developmental level courses are accepted as course substitutions in this program.
These courses have a "D" as an Elective Code in the course description.
All students must complete an “Application to Graduate” by the following application deadlines:
Graduation
Spring
Summer
Fall
Deadline
February 1
February 1
September 1
Students in this program must achieve a minimum grade of “C-” in the following courses to
continue in the program:
Basic Anatomy and Physiology (3 credit hours)
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Introduction to Chemistry (3 credit hours)
Microbiology (4 credit hours)
Students achieving less than a C- in either of these courses must retake that course before
continuing in the program.
Courses in the curriculum are sequential. For this reason, students who do not pass a
prerequisite course must successfully complete that course before continuing in the curriculum.
Refer to the course descriptions in the college catalog for prerequisites.
All core Respiratory Therapy coursework must be completed with a minimum of a C minus (C-)
or the students will be removed from the program, with a chance of reentry the following year.
Students may not graduate:
•
•
•
With an incomplete, “F” or no pass grade in any program course.
If they have any registration holds such as outstanding fines.
With a cumulative grade point average below 2.00 for program courses.
Students successfully completing the program requirements are awarded Associate of Applied
Science degree.
STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT
Students will be asked for input and suggestions in most courses. Given the diverse learning
styles and backgrounds of a class, it is always challenging for faculty to find methods to satisfy
the learning needs of each student. Students are encouraged to be open and honest in
providing feedback to faculty. Students are entitled to anonymity when providing feedback. Any
intimidation or retribution resulting from feedback should be reported to the Dean of the Allied
Health Department.
Near the end of the program, students will be asked to complete a survey assessing program
strengths and areas for improvement. A follow up survey will be sent to all graduates to obtain
feedback related to the program curriculum. Graduate feedback is viewed as an extremely
valuable resource for curriculum review and revision. Additional informal suggestions are
encouraged. Graduates are asked to inform the program director of all professional
accomplishments including awards, promotions and publications.
LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS
All 52 states currently license respiratory care practitioners. Each state has somewhat different
licensure requirements. The minimum requirement for licensure in most states is successful
completion of the Entry Level Examination for Certified Respiratory Therapists. This is the
minimum requirement in Iowa. In addition, licensed RCPs (Respiratory Care Practitioners) in
Iowa must complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years.
ARTICULATION OPPORTUNITIES
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WEBER STATE UNIVERSITY Bachelors of Respiratory Care (ON-LINE). The Program
Director of Kirkwood’s R.T. program is the advisor for required course work before admittance
into the Bachelor’s Degree completion program. http://weber.edu/resptherapy
APPLIED BUSINESS/APPLIED Management - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy University will accept 63 credit hours toward a bachelor of applied science degree.
HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy University will accept 63 credit hours toward a bachelor of Applied Science
degree.
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPECIAL STUDIES – St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa for
registered nurses and allied health graduates.
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA—Bachelors of Liberal Arts, Bachelors of Science, Bachelors in
Business Management
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Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION
For Further Information, contact us at:
Kirkwood Community College
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406
www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Allied Health Department
2164 Linn Hall
319-398-5566
FAX: 319-398-1293
1-800-363-2220
Program Faculty:
Tamara S. Alt BAS, RRT- NPS, RCP
Program Director/Faculty
319-398-5520
Email: tamara.alt@kirkwood.edu
Mel Cerveny BLS, RRT, CPFT,
Director of Clinical Education/Faculty
319-398-1289
Email: mel.cerveny@kirkwood.edu
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