Advanced College Diploma - Respiratory Therapy

Students can learn to evaluate, treat and manage the care of patients with cardiopulmonary abnormalities. Respiratory therapists are an integral part of the health care team providing ventilation and airway management, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, oxygen therapy, and assisting with high-risk births and anesthesia in the operating room. The third-year placement includes the Hospital for Sick Children and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, allows students to gain practical experience in neonatal and pediatric settings. Graduates enter this in-demand, lifesaving field and find employment in a variety of dynamic settings.

Future Careers:

• Hospitals • Diagnostic labs • Community clinics • Home care • Education and research

Students will learn: • Anatomy and physiology • Pathophysiology and pharmacology • Patient assessment • Airway and ventilation management • Invasive vascular procedures • Cardiac and pulmonary diagnostics

The program has been designed to meet the core and clinical competencies of the Respiratory Therapy Entry to Practice National Competency Framework. These competencies are acquired through didactic and laboratory learning, clinical simulation and clinical practicum. The curriculum focuses on the development of assessment, analysis and critical thinking skills, which are integral to the role of a Respiratory Therapist. The program is accredited by Accreditation Canada.

The program and the profession involve working in an interactive team-based approach. The Respiratory Therapist works in an area of moderate to high physical and psychological demands and requires a regular demand on sensory attention, as work activities require a need for sustained concentration.