Respiratory Therapy

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Courses - September 2025

Level 1

Course details

College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085

Description: This course introduces students to the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse a variety of texts and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising to produce writing that meets the expectations of selected audiences and purposes. The course prepares students for college-level writing tasks, research, and documentation by asking them to produce clear, informed, and purposeful documents relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Safety in the Workplace
OHS1320

Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of general Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers.
  • Hours: 14
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Cardiovascular Anatomy and Physiology
RTH1010

Description: This course will cover in detail the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system. Topics to be discussed are the blood, heart and blood vessels, hemodynamics, invasive and non-invasive assessment of the cardiovascular system, fetal circulation and lymphatic circulation.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1020 AND RTH1035

Field Studies I
RTH1015

Description:

This course is an introduction to the role of the Respiratory Therapist in a wide variety of settings. It provides the students with exposure to many areas of practice. The student will be given the opportunity to observe respiratory related skills in a patient care setting.

  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1055

Respiratory Anatomy and Physiology
RTH1020

Description:

A detailed study of the structure and function of the respiratory system. Anatomy, mechanics, ventilation, gas exchange, circulation, gas transport, and nervous control of ventilation will all be discussed.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1035

Applied Science
RTH1035

Description: This course introduces the student to the basic principles of chemistry, microbiology and physics necessary for the study of Respiratory Therapy. This course also introduces the science behind various diagnostic tests and patient monitoring equipment.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1055

General Therapeutics
RTH1055

Description:

This course covers key aspects of Respiratory Therapy equipment and therapeutics. This course focuses on the principles and practice of oxygen and aerosol therapy. It provides the unique opportunity to learn within a combined theory/lab environment.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1035 AND RTH1055

Anatomy and Physiology
RTH1200

Description: This course provides learners with an overview of the anatomy and basic physiology of the human body. It covers the following areas: organization of the body; covering, support, and movement of the body; regulation and integration of body functions; maintenance of the body; and continuity of the human race. Disease and aging processed are briefly discussed.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 2

Course details

Introductory Pathophysiology
RTH1085

Description:

This course is an introduction into the pathophysiology of diseases and disorders of the human body. Pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis, clinical manifestations, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes of specified acute and chronic disorders will be discussed.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1055 AND RTH1200
  • CoRequisites: RTH1115

Patient Care Procedures
RTH1095

Description:

This course builds on General Therapeutics continuing to focus on Respiratory Therapy Equipment and therapeutics. This course focuses on the principles and practice of suction therapy, chest drainage and bronchoscopy. It provides the unique opportunity to learn within a combined theory/lab environment.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1055 AND RTH1200
  • CoRequisites: RTH1105 AND RTH1155 OR RTH1157

Patient Evaluation
RTH1105

Description: This course is an introduction to Patient Assessment. The student will learn how to obtain a patient history, perform a comprehensive chest assessment; and to interpret vital signs, basic chest radiography, and common lab tests. An introduction to documentation and 12 lead ECG acquisition is also incorporated. This course has a laboratory component, where the students will be able to practice these skills.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1200
  • CoRequisites: RTH1095

Ventilators I
RTH1115

Description: This course addresses the fundamental theories and principles surrounding mechanical ventilation. Emphasis is on indications for mechanical ventilation, the patient - ventilator circuit, common modes of ventilation, introductory waveform and weaning strategies. Practical experience and application of these concepts are reinforced in a laboratory setting. In addition, the physiology of mechanical ventilation and its effects on body systems is explored.
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1035 AND RTH1055
  • CoRequisites: RTH1085

Field Studies II
RTH1135

Description: This course is an introduction to the role of the Respiratory Therapist in a wide variety of settings. It provides the students with exposure to many areas of practice. The student will be given the opportunity to observe respiratory related skills in a patient care setting.
  • Hours: 35
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1010 AND RTH1015 AND RTH1020 AND RTH1035 AND RTH1055
  • CoRequisites: RTH1095 AND RTH1155 OR RTH1157

Professional Practice and Community Populations
RTH1157

Description: This course will cover professional responsibilities, medical ethics and communication issues specific to health care. It will also cover leadership opportunities and administrative duties related to Respiratory Therapy. Psychological, sociological and cultural constructs will be explored as they relate to the care of patients in a variety of patient care settings. Emphasis will be placed on seniors care and mental health. The various support systems that are in place in the community will be discussed stressing the importance of communication amongst the health care team. The student will explore his/her role as an advocate for a patient's right to dignity, privacy, confidentiality, and consent to treatment. Critical analysis of research and statistical methodologies will be covered and the concept of evidence informed practice will be introduced.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1015
  • CoRequisites: RTH1115 AND RTH1135

Cardiodiagnostics
RTH2155

Description: This course addresses the theory for various cardiodiagnostic equipment, procedures and practices currently in use. Emphasis is on hemodynamic monitoring, ECG interpretation, cardiovascular and pulmonary vascular disorders, shock, fluid balance and cardio-diagnostic procedures.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites: RTH1095 AND RTH1105

Level 3

Course details

Pharmacology
RTH2000

Description: This course will introduce the student to essential pharmacological principles in regards to several classes of drugs utilized in Respiratory Therapy; agents covered include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and cardiac agents among others.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1095
  • CoRequisites: RTH2040

Advanced Practice
RTH2035

Description: This course addresses specialized concepts and practices encountered by Respiratory Therapists. Focus is on emerging trends and evidence informed practice as it relates to Respiratory Therapy. Students will participate in case-based learning focused on cardiopulmonary care, institutional evidence informed practice, and management of patients in community-based settings. Self-directed practical application and skill acquisition will be encouraged to reinforce case-based learning and to prepare the student for simulation and clinical experiences.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1115 AND RTH1155 OR RTH1157
  • CoRequisites: RTH2040

Ventilators 2
RTH2040

Description: This course builds on theory from the previous ventilator course and addresses the practical application of mechanical ventilation for the adult patient. Emphasis is on safely preparing, initiating and adjusting mechanical ventilators to meet the needs of patients who require ventilatory assistance. Didactic and practical laboratory experience related to specific mechanical ventilators is explored.
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1085 AND RTH1095 AND RTH1105 AND RTH1115 AND RTH1155 OR RTH1157
  • CoRequisites: RTH2000 AND RTH2125 AND RTH2165

Neonatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care
RTH2070

Description: This course will introduce the student to the concepts of neonatal and pediatric physiology; including fetal development, the transitional differences between infants, children and adults. Assessments of the newborn and infant, application of respiratory care modalities; as well as the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment for neonatal and pediatric disorders will also be discussed.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1085 AND RTH1095 AND RTH1105 AND RTH2155
  • CoRequisites:

Blood Analysis and Diagnostics
RTH2125

Description:

This course provides the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required in the area of Blood Gas Analysis and procurement along with cardiodiagnostic procedures. A combined theory/lab learning environment is utilized to obtain procedural competency, familiarity with instrumentation and laboratory quality control.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1085 AND RTH2155
  • CoRequisites:

Airway Interventions
RTH2165

Description:

This course provides advanced theory and application of skills and equipment required for airway management. A combined theory/lab learning environment is utilized to obtain procedural competency required to practice at the bedside as a Respiratory Therapist.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1085 AND RTH1095
  • CoRequisites: RTH2040
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 4

Course details

Pulmonary Diagnostics
RTH2055

Description:

This course provides the knowledge, skills and attitudes required in the area of pulmonary diagnostics. A combined theory/lab learning environment is utilized to obtain procedural competency, familiarity with instrumentation and maintenance in laboratory quality control.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1080 OR RTH1085 AND RTH2040 AND RTH2125
  • CoRequisites: RTH2080

Advanced Pathophysiology
RTH2080

Description:

An in-depth study and analysis of respiratory disturbances. The course emphasis will be placed on acquiring an understanding of the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of the diseases, thus leading to an understanding of treatment, establishing of therapeutic goals, and a schedule for ongoing assessment.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH1080 OR RTH1085 AND RTH2000 AND RTH2040 AND RTH2070 AND RTH2125 AND RTH2165
  • CoRequisites: RTH2055 AND RTH2105 AND RTH2140

Respiratory Care Clinical Simulation
RTH2105

Description: This course introduces students to the clinical and professional practice of Respiratory Therapy through simulation based education, with emphasis on learning though observation, participation, reflection and deliberate practice. Students are provided opportunities to develop the professional skills required of Respiratory Therapists across acute, long-term and community care settings
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2040 AND RTH2070 AND RTH2125 AND RTH2155 AND RTH2165
  • CoRequisites: RTH2055 AND RTH2140

Anesthesia
RTH2115

Description: An introduction to the basic principles of general anesthesia, anesthetic pharmacology (both inhalation and intravenous), and the equipment utilized. There are sections on surgical risk, patient monitoring, and recovery.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2000 AND RTH2040
  • CoRequisites: RTH2105 AND RTH2140

Ventilators 3
RTH2140

Description: This course builds on theory from the previous ventilator courses as well as addresses the practical application of mechanical ventilation for the neonatal patient. Emphasis is on non-traditional ventilatory support strategies applicable to both the neonatal and adult patient populations. Didactic and practical laboratory experience related to specific mechanical ventilators is expected.
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2000 AND RTH2030 OR RTH2035 AND RTH2040 AND RTH2070 AND RTH2125 AND RTH2155 AND RTH2165
  • CoRequisites: RTH2115
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 5

Course details

Field Placement I (Respiratory Therapy)
FPLT2500

Description: The clinical practicum experience occurs over a total of 30 weeks in semesters 5 and 6 of the program where the student will observe, practice, and demonstrate clinical competency in accordance with the National Competency Framework in a variety of skills and patient care settings. FPLT 2500 is the first of two field placement courses where students will be evaluated on course outcomes and competencies based on assigned clinical rotations to date.
  • Hours: 600
  • Credits: 20
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2055 AND RTH2080 AND RTH2105 AND RTH2115 AND RTH2140
  • CoRequisites: RTH2190

Practice Consolidation I
RTH2190

Description:

The first of two clinical theory courses, this online course provides the student the opportunity to build on previously studied theory and to begin to combine and organize all previous program knowledge. This course focuses on reinforcing the National Competency Framework in preparation for clinical practice. It also prepares students to challenge the Health Professionals Testing Canada (HPTC) Exam.

  • Hours: 30
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2055 AND RTH2080 AND RTH2105 AND RTH2115 AND RTH2140
  • CoRequisites:

Level 6

Course details

Field Placement II (Respiratory Therapy)
FPLT2505

Description: The clinical practicum experience occurs over a total of 30 weeks in semesters 5 and 6 of the program where the student will observe, practice, and demonstrate clinical competency in accordance with the National Competency Framework in a variety of skills and patient care settings. FPLT 2505 is the second of two field placement courses where students will be evaluated on course outcomes and competencies based on assigned clinical rotations to date and those not previously evaluated in FPLT 2500.
  • Hours: 600
  • Credits: 20
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2055 AND RTH2080 AND RTH2105 AND RTH2115 AND RTH2140
  • CoRequisites:

Practice Consolidation II
RTH2200

Description: The second of two clinical theory courses, this online course provides a continuing opportunity for students to build on previously studied theory and to continue to combine and organize all previous program knowledge. The focus of this course is to reinforce the National Competency Framework in preparation for clinical practice. It also prepares students to challenge the Canadian Board for Respiratory Care (CBRC) exam.
  • Hours: 30
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: RTH2190
  • CoRequisites:

Program outcomes

  1. Provide cardio-respiratory care in compliance with relevant legislation, professional standards, codes of ethics and practice setting policies and procedures.
  2. Use preventive measures that contribute to a culture of patient and employee health and safety within a range of practice settings.
  3. Establish and maintain therapeutic relationships and communicate in a culturally sensitive manner with diverse patients/clients and their families to support cardio-respiratory health.
  4. Collaborate with patients/clients and members of the inter-professional health care team to optimize cardio-respiratory health and well-being.
  5. Assess and interpret relevant diagnostic and patient information when treating patients/clients who are experiencing a range of cardio-respiratory conditions.
  6. Develop patient’s/client’s plan of care in collaboration with patients/clients and health care team members by identifying priorities, establishing goals and determining interventions to support optimal cardio-respiratory outcomes.
  7. Select, implement, evaluate and modify therapeutic cardio-respiratory interventions to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care in a range of practice settings.
  8. Develop, implement and evaluate cardio-respiratory related learning plans in collaboration with patients/clients, families and health care team members to support client independence and self-management.
  9. Complete written and electronic documentation of patient/client care to meet legal, organizational and professional requirements.
  10. Read, interpret and participate in research and use relevant evidence-based findings to inform and guide respiratory therapy practice.
  11. Engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional development activities to maintain and enhance competence in the field of respiratory therapy.