DPT 7303 - Cardiopulmonary

This course gives an overview of the principles of management of patients with pathologies of the cardiopulmonary system commonly seen by physical therapists. Overall emphasis will be on review of relevant cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology with a view towards learning safe, effective, autonomous practice. Students are expected to integrate their knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology from previous courses into understanding the diseases covered in this course. Emphasis will be on care of the patient with primary cardiopulmonary dysfunction and multi-system involvement, including: examination and evaluation, diagnostic procedures, goal setting, direct intervention in relation to prescribing exercise, monitoring exercise tolerance, promoting breathing and airway clearance, and health promotion. All course work will be directed towards building sound clinical judgment for evidence-based practice as outlined in the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice. Lectures, demonstrations, case studies, required readings, and laboratory activities will reinforce clinical logic and help students learn to apply rehabilitation techniques primarily to adult- and pediatric patients with cardiopulmonary dysfunction at various stages of involvement.