Gwynedd Mercy University
2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog
Experiential Learning : Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from off campus experiential learning opportunities , i . e . clinical rotations at the hospital , and any fees associated with such travel , e . g ., parking costs , gas , tolls , train fare , etc . Additionally , students must purchase a stethoscope and scrubs as discussed during the orientation to clinical by the Director of Clinical Education ( DCE ). Clinical rotations are scheduled by the DCE and are based on availability and at the DCE ’ s discretion .
Other : Students must adhere to the course sequence as outlined in the curriculum . Advancement from one level to the next is based on availability as well as recommendation of program faculty . Students matriculating at Gwynedd Mercy University will be given preference for acceptance over students transferring from other institutions based on academic performance .
Non-Academic Criteria for Admission , Progression and Retention
Technical Standards / Functions : Respiratory therapists are responsible for the care of patients , some of whom are critically ill . They are often required to manage highly complex pieces of equipment , as well as interact with patients to make diagnostic and therapeutic assessments . Respiratory therapists must also be able to communicate with other health care professionals and respect privacy and confidentiality of patient data , information , and communication . Therefore , in order to be successful in the respiratory care program , all applicants must be able to perform , learn and adhere to the following essential functions :
• The ability to travel to all areas of a health care facility including patient rooms , various care areas and the respiratory care department .
• Perform physically demanding tasks including , but not limited to , positioning and transporting patients , performing CPR and moving life sustaining equipment .
• Communicate clearly and effectively with patients and hospital staff
• Use appropriate equipment to accurately assess patients
• Apply sufficient intellectual and emotional skills to plan and exercise independent judgment and to respond quickly to medical emergencies .
• Accurately measure and administer medication
• Read , interpret , and evaluate patient data to make appropriate recommendations for improving patients ’ conditions .
• Calibrate and operate equipment associated with providing respiratory care .
• Perform the numerous tasks required of a respiratory therapist .
• The physical and mental acumen to adjust and cope with the stressors associated with providing respiratory care to critically ill patients .
Compliance Requirements and Clearances : All candidates accepted into the Respiratory Care Program must have documented proof of the following additional requirements prior to clinical courses :
1 . Certificate of health / Physical Examination : A physical examination performed by a primary care physician , e . g .: MD , DO , NP , PA , is required to take part in clinical rotations . Official physical forms are provided by the University . Separate forms may be required depending on the clinical site . Completed health forms are to be submitted to the Campus Health Office at least 2 weeks before clinical rotations begin . Students without completed health forms will not be permitted to take part in clinical rotations .
2 . Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation ( CPR ) Certification / Recertification : Valid , current CPR certification is required before beginning clinical education experiences . Respiratory Care faculty can provide CPR training prior to the start of clinical at the expense of the student . A copy of the current certification must be submitted to the Director of Clinical Education prior to the start of clinical rotations .
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