CVT 1000C Introduction to Cardiovascular Technology
2012
Syllabus
Fall Term (Session I) – Year I
Course:
CVT 1000 C
Introduction to Cardiovascular Technology
4 Credits/3 class/3 Lab /6 Contact
Prerequisites:
Admission into CVT Program
Catalog Course Description:
This course is an overview of the profession including basic skills and terminology related to
historical development, current profession trends, infection control, asepsis, and basic
cardiopulmonary patient assessment tools using electrocardiography, chest roentgenography, and
clinical laboratory tests.
Instructor:
Texts:
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Name: TBA
Respiratory Care Anatomy and Physiology, Foundations for Clinical Practice by: Beachey
Advanced Cardiac Care in the Streets by: Taylor
Mosby’s Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, Second Edition by: Pagnana and
Pagnana
Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary
VCC Core Competencies:
The Valencia Student Core Competencies (Think, Value, Act, and Communicate) are an
established component of the College’s curriculum development and review process. A detailed
overview can be found in the current Valencia Catalog or on the Valencia Website:
//www.valenciacc.edu/competencies/default.asp. Developing these core competencies will be
enhanced through critical thinking exercises, classroom discussions, and reasoned choices made
by acquiring, analyzing, synthesizing, and evaluating knowledge. You will also need to read,
listen, write, and speak effectively. The college’s goal is to provide the best education possible in
exchange for the tuition it receives. Students should never expect a grade in exchange for tuition.
Grades will be allocated on the basis of learned performance of core competencies.
Specific to the Cardiovascular Technology Program:
 Think: Analyzes data, ideas, patterns; draws well-supported conclusions; revises conclusions
consistent with new observations, interpretations, or reasons.
1. Analyzes components, indications, and contraindications for normal and abnormal
clinical laboratory studies, including hematology, blood chemistry, blood gases,
microbiology, urinalysis.
2. Analyzes the abnormal theoretical concepts for chest x-rays.
3. Analyzes results of head–to-toe patient assessment.
 Value: Distinguishes among personal, ethical, aesthetic, cultural, and scientific values.
1. Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the concepts of Risk Management
including legal and ethical concerns, patient rights / confidentiality, medical record
documentation.
 Communicate: Employs methods of communication (both oral and written) appropriate to
audience and purpose.
1. Demonstrates proper medical record charting.
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Demonstrates effective interviewing skills using layman’s terms during patient
interview and assessment.
3. Demonstrates effective oral communication of patient information using appropriate
medical terminology.
Act: Applies disciplinary knowledge, skills; implements effective problem-solving, decision
making, and goal setting strategies; acts effectively and appropriately in various personal and
professional settings.
1. Demonstrate a basic assessment on a classmate.
2. Demonstrate the procedure for performing an electrocardiogram.
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Course Objectives :
1. To introduce the student to skills and knowledge that will prepare them to work with
colleagues and patients in the hospital setting.
2. Name of professional organizations, accrediting agencies, and national examination.
3. Description of student responsibilities prior to clinical practice. Includes but not limited to:
Medical physical exam, vaccination records, BLS certification, FDLE check, reference letters,
clinical equipment and uniforms.
4. Introduction to working in teams. Individual personality assessment / learning style
assessment / Gardner intelligence assessment. Basics in time management, study habits and
techniques as related to individual assessments, conflict resolution techniques.
5. Name and identify anatomic structures of the cardiopulmonary system on models and fellow
classmates in preparation for basic patient assessment skills.
6. Describe the functions of the anatomic structures of the cardiopulmonary system.
7. Name the blood vessels and trace the flow of blood from the left heart through the body and
back to the right heart.
8. Name and trace the blood flow through the right heart chambers, lungs and left heart
chambers.
9. Describe the concepts of oxygenation: SaO2, PaO2, CaO2.
10. Describe the concepts of ventilation: MV, VD/Vt
11. Describe the concepts of lung function and dysfunction: lungs volumes, basic PFT
characteristics of obstructive – vs – restrictive disorders.
12. Describe the hemodynamic pressure changes creating flow in the cardiovascular system.
13. Describe the hemodynamic concepts influencing CO: SV, Starling’s Principle, preload,
afterload, contractility, synchronicity.
14. Name and trace the electrical pathway through the heart. Correlate this pathway to ECG
waveform. Be able to identify NSR, Sinus Bradycardia and tachycardia.
15. Name and describe standard lead placement for ECG electrodes.
16. Set up and place ECG leads on classmate using standard lead placement.
17. Describe the basic theoretical concepts for chest x-rays.
18. Identify the normal anatomical structures on a CXR.
19. Describe and be able to identify abnormal CXR features, including line placement, ETT
placement, cardiomegaly, CHF, cardiogenic pulmonary edema, non-cardiogenic pulmonary
edema, and pleural effusion.
20. Describe components, indications, and contraindications for normal and abnormal clinical
laboratory studies, including hematology, blood chemistry, blood gases, microbiology,
urinalysis.
21. Name and identify the components to a patient assessment using the Head to Toe, Review of
Systems method.
22. Identify and perform basic non-invasive resting vital signs. Including pulses, blood pressure,
respirations, body temperature, pulse oximetry.
23. Describe theory, benefits, and limitations of pulse oximetry.
24. Perform a basic assessment on a classmate.
Course Format:
Course objectives will be met by using both lecture and lab demonstrations. Note: The laboratory
simulation areas utilize the capability of videotaping to assist in instruction and evaluation of
student performance. Students are expected to come to class prepared, ready, and willing to
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participate in both task assignments as well as critical thinking sessions. Students will complete
these objectives by both individual and team assignments.
Atlas:
This course is Web-Enhanced. You will need to check your Atlas and WebCt/ Blackboard
account daily. The instructors will post email, helpful hints, and updated information to keep you
current.
RELEASE OF STUDENT INFORMATION:
Throughout the Cardiovascular Technology Program and at the completion of the Cardiovascular
Technology Program, information necessary for clinical affiliation and licensure will be sent to the
appropriate agency.
Student Responsibility:
 If you have any questions, concerns, or are having difficulty completing any of the course
requirements contact, or make an appointment with the instructor ASAP. Given enough time,
solutions to most problems can be found!
 The student is expected to maintain open and honest communication with all members of the
team, both inside and outside of the clinical setting. Valid communication must be either oral
or written and must come directly from the student.
 No student information will be given out to unauthorized persons.
 Assignments -- Reading assignments for next class, formal laboratory observations and
participation, formal clinical observation and participation. Students are expected to be
prepared for lecture and laboratory activities and will be expected to participate in these
activities.
Attendance Policy:
See Rubric titled “Attendance, Individual Accountability, & Collaborative Work Skills”.
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Attendance is mandatory and will be taken and maintained for each class period (VC requirement)
Important Note: All students receiving financial aid are advised to be aware of the affects of
course attendance on their financial aid packages. For assistance, please seek guidance through
the Valencia Financial Aid Department in the Student Services Building.
Students may withdraw at any time until the Withdrawal Deadline and receive a W.
Two absences are considered excessive.
If a student exceeds the number (two) of absences allotted, and the Withdrawal Deadline has
already passed, the student’s grade will be dropped by 2% off the final average for the course for
each additional absence.
Tardy is by definition  10 minutes.
The student is expected to arrive on time. Two tardy arrivals or early departures will be equal to
one absence.
The student is expected to notify the instructor, in advance, of any anticipated tardy arrivals, early
departures, or absences (this is considered to be an “excused” absence). Unexcused absences
will result in a drop in letter grade for each offense. It is the responsibility of the student, not the
instructor, to initiate and serve any and all make up time.
The Instructor must authorize any early dismissal or late arrival > 30 minutes.
To avoid disruptions in the learning environment and as a courtesy to the instructor and fellow
classmates, students are expected to avoid interruption of course activities. Therefore the student
shall refrain from physically entering (10 minutes after the start of class), or leaving the
classroom/lab while session is in progress. You may enter once a break is given (usually 60-75
minutes after class begins. In the case of an emergency or special circumstance the student shall
notify and seek approval from the instructor.
In the unfortunate event of an unforeseen hardship, special considerations in policy may be
made on a case-by-case basis. It is the student’s responsibility to notify and keep the
instructor informed of any pertinent hardship.
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Should you miss class for any reason, it is your responsibility to get all announcements, handouts
from your designated classmate. This is where a “buddy” system is advised!
Handouts will only be given out once (so if you are ever absent, make sure you have someone get
them for you).
No make-up will be offered for lab exercises/skill testing. Nor for pop-quizzes given.
Calling Off Procedure: Not applicable to this course, but just to help prepare you for the future
while in your clinical assigned areas.
o Notify clinical affiliate site (if applicable) at least 30 minutes prior to start of scheduled
shift.
o Notify primary course instructor by phone at least 30 minutes prior to start of scheduled
clinical shift or start of course.
o Send an email via Blackboard to course instructor with the following details. Subject
Line must include “absence”, date of absence, clinical affiliate of scheduled absence.
Body of email must include reason for absence.
o Be prepared to provide documentation for absence upon your return. Examples of
documentation are but not limited to doctor’s slip, court date, and/or obituary.
Students with Disabilities:
If you have a documented disability, which requires accommodations in this course, please see the
instructor ASAP. We are happy to make appropriate accommodations, provided timely notice is
received. Students with disabilities who qualify for academic accommodations must provide a
letter from the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) and discuss specific needs with the
professor, preferably during the first two weeks of class. The Office for Students with Disabilities
determines accommodations based on appropriate documentation of disabilities (West Campus
SSB 102, ext. 1523).
Cell Phones, Personal Computer Devices:
 Refrain from bringing personal computer devices to class, lab, or affiliate locations.
 All cell phones MUST be on silent / vibrate mode.
 You will need to wait until you are given a break by your instructor to answer any
messages / calls.
 Affiliate cell phone policy varies. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of and
comply with all affiliate policy and procedures.
 The student shall NOT be permitted to video tape, audio tape, or take still photos in the
classroom, lab, or clinical affiliate areas. Note: It is the student’s responsibility to abide
by any and all confidentiality laws.
 Absolutely NO personal computer devices, cell phones, or palm pilots are permitted
on the student’s person during a testing period.
Non-programmable Calculator:
The student will need to purchase a non-programmable calculator. The student is expected to
bring the calculator to all class sessions. In the event that the student forgets to bring a calculator
to class, the student may use a blank sheet of paper to perform calculations. All scratch paper used
for calculations will be turned into the instructor with the assignment.
Metric Ruler:
The student will need to purchase a clear metric ruler. The student is expected to bring the ruler to
all class sessions. In the event that the student forgets to bring a ruler to class, the student is still
required to complete all class assignments.
Miscellaneous Policy Reminders:
 Tobacco smoking is prohibited during affiliate rotations. This includes clothing on your
person smelling of smoke.
 VC now has a non-smoking policy while on the premises, including your car, motorcycle, etc.
 Failure to comply with VC policies, CVT program policies, course and/or hospital
requirements and /or policies will result in immediate grade reduction and / or disciplinary
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action (written warning, probation, suspension, withdrawal from program). Infractions not
listed here will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. See Student Program Handbook.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Cardiovascular Technology Program is a “program of study”
therefore; all disciplinary actions are cumulative and transferable across CVT program
courses.
CVT Accreditation Standards:
Each CVT student must demonstrate competency in three critical domains: cognitive,
psychomotor, and affect skills (interpersonal skills).
Academic Honesty:
Students are expected to be in complete compliance with the VC policy on academic honesty.
This policy is written in the Valencia College Catalog and Student Handbook.
Academic Courses:
Should you make less than a “C” for this course, or any course in the CVT Program, you will be
dropped from the program. You may reapply the following year.
The following constitute a “Fail” for any clinical skill. (Not applicable to this course, but stated here
for future reference):
 Less than 75% of perfect technique even if the patient is not compromised. Should the student fail, the
student will be given one opportunity to remediate the skill and retest. The student must pass the retest
at  75% to continue in the course. Final grade for the skill will be 75% regardless of score made on
second attempt.
 Any technique that can potentially cause patient compromise or death. Examples are but not limited to
emboli, dissection, hemodynamic collapse / shock, break in sterile field without corrective action,
administering wrong drug/dose without corrective action, improper CPR chest compression / airway
technique without corrective action. Should the student fail due to patient compromise, the student will
receive a “0”, be given one opportunity to remediate the skill and retest. The student must pass the
retest at  75% to continue in the course. Final grade for the skill will be the average of the “0” and the
score on the second attempt.
Testing Style:
I use several methods of testing on any one test. Therefore, each test may include MC, T or F, fill in the
blank, matching, short answer essay; questions that may state define, explain, describe, recommend, apply;
and math calculations, and critical thinking questions. Please plan on every test to have a “mixed” bag so
to speak as to the type of test. Therefore, there is no need to ask what type of test to expect. On occasion,
at my discretion, I may elect to tell you.
Course Disclaimer:
These course requirements may be changed with notification, as deemed necessary by the instructor due to
unforeseen circumstances. The course instructor reserves the right to modify the course schedule and test
dates if, in the instructor’s professional judgment, feels that such a modification is in the best interest of
fulfilling the course objectives and assuring the academic integrity of the course and Valencia College.
Grade calculation:
I use a simple system based on total points earned at any one time, divided by the total possible points
multiplied by 100 = %
For example: You receive the following grades:
Actual Points earned
9
45
24
60
Possible Points on assignment
10
50
30
70
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Actual points: 138
Possible points: 160
Grade calculation: 138/160 x 100 = 86.25 %
Note:
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No make-up will be offered for lab exercises/skill testing or pop-quizzes.
Any missed exam must be made up within one week of the original test date. For
example: an exam in given at 9:00 AM on Tuesday. You must make up the exam
before 9:00 AM the following Tuesday. For this exam, the highest grade you can
earn is a 75% if the same exam is used. However, if the instructor chooses to give
you a different exam (possibly essay), only 10% will be taken off for the grade for
this exam. Any exam not made up within one week will result in a grade of "0". No
make up exams will be provided without scheduling for an appointment with the
instructor..
Weekly terminology and medical abbreviation quizzes; the lowest grade will be
thrown out. Note, this is the only grade forgiveness for this course.
Grading Scale:
If final average ends with .50 or higher, I round up.
Example: 91.4 % is a “B”. But, 91.5% gets rounded up to 92% for an “A”
A = 92 – 100
B = 85 – 91
*C = 75 – 84
* Note: A minimum grade of “C” is required to continue with the program.
D = 70 – 74
F = < 70
Note: For perfect attendance, having assignments in on time, good interpersonal skills and class
participation, I reserve the right to give an increase in a student’s final average by 1 or 2% at my
discretion.
Final note: I am here to help you! Nothing would please be better than to have each of you make A’s and
B’s. Seek me out if you need my help. I keep an open-door policy; however, it is always best to make an
appointment because I may have a meeting to attend, etc.
Thank you and best wishes on a great semester. I hope you learn more that you thought you could
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