Simi Institute for Careers & Education
Overview
Simi Institute for Careers & Education (formerly Simi Valley Adult School and Career Institute), an NCCRS member organization since April 2017, was established in 1936. Simi Institute offers training in many diverse areas of study. Allied Health training includes ECG, EMT, home health aide, medical assistant, medical insurance billing, nurse assistant, pharmacy technician, phlebotomy, physical therapy aide, respiratory therapist, and surgical technologist. The Dental Technology program offers courses in beginning and advanced Dental Technology, as well as Dental CAD/CAM classes. Simi Institute also offers classes for Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) seeking continuing CEU credits in Coronal Polishing, California Radiation Safety, and Pit and Fissure Sealants. Additional career classes include machine technology, welding, business and computer classes, computer graphics, multimedia, web design, upholstery, real estate, notary, cosmetology, esthetician, manicuring, makeup, and barbering. Simi Institute also offers classes that assist students pass the General Education Diploma (GED), attain a high school diploma, or learn English.
The Respiratory Therapy Program at Simi Institute for Careers & Education is conducted in consortium with Excelsior College and is an associate degree program. The Respiratory Therapy Program prepares graduates to apply and take the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentialing examination by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) and apply for the Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) License by the Respiratory Care Board (RCB) of California.
Students and admissions representatives please note: NCCRS does not provide transcripts. Transcript requests and inquiries should be directed to the organization offering the courses, examinations, or apprenticeship. See the Source of Official Student Records in the sidebar near the top right side of this page.
Source of Official Student Records
Titles of all evaluated learning experiences
Descriptions and credit recommendations for all evaluated learning experiences
Allied Health - Simi Institute for Careers & Education
180 hours (20 weeks).
January 1965 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to describe the functions of body systems appropriate to the nursing assistant scope of practice; describe the roles and responsibilities of nursing assistants, including ethics, communication, legal responsibilities, and abuse laws; demonstrate professional communication skills, including recording and reporting, and legal and ethical responsibilities; demonstrate safety and infection control practices that comply with standards of practice for nursing assistants; identify stages of growth and development; define common medical terms and abbreviations used in health care; comply with privacy and confidentiality laws; demonstrate behaviors consistent with professional work ethics; adhere to the policies and procedures of clinical sites; demonstrate competence and proficiency in the following categories of skills: communication and interpersonal relationships, safety and infection control, personal care procedures, vital signs, nutritional requirements and techniques, admission, transfer, and discharge procedures, exercise and activity, elimination, unsterile warm and cold applications, care to clients with special needs, end of life care, and care to clients with cognitive impairment. Prerequisite: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
This course covers basic care and care procedures for patients in hospitals and residents of long-term care facilities such as nursing homes; vital signs; medical asepsis; body mechanics; residents’ rights, and nutrition.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 5 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
72 hours (20 weeks).
January 2016 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of terminology relating to the heart, its basic anatomy, and physiology of the Cardiovascular System; explain how an EKG uses electrical conduction to get readings on the function of the heart—concepts of cardiac polarization, depolarization, and repolarization; demonstrate knowledge of, apply, and use medical instrumentation modalities; correlate the actions of the heart represented by the p wave, PR interval, QRS complex, and T-wave; calculate a heart rate from an EKG rhythm strip; perform EKG waveform analysis which includes interpreting cardiac of the following rhythms: sinus rhythms, atrial rhythms, ventricular rhythms, junctional rhythms, Heart Blocks, and interpreting artificial pacemaker rhythms; recognize EKG findings of Myocardial Infarction and ischemia; demonstrate proper EKG lead placement to perform a 12-lead EKG; perform stress testing; demonstrate Holter Monitoring lead placement, procedure, and analysis; explain the interventions intended to correct the effects of insufficient tissue perfusion associated with dysrhythmia; describe the symptoms of common cardiac diseases; identify the legal and ethical responsibilities of an EKG technician; demonstrate patient care techniques used in a health care facility; and describe cardiovascular drugs, their actions, use, and adverse effects.
This course covers preparing patients for procedures, operating machines, measuring and recording heart rates and rhythms including arrhythmia, vital signs, medical terms, anatomy, and physiology. Prerequisite: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
215 hours (20 weeks).
January 1994 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to establish a therapeutic and culturally-appropriate patient relationship using professional communication; demonstrate basic life support skills designed to preserve life; communicate both orally and written with healthcare professionals in a manner set by the medical community; demonstrate proficiency in use of Advanced Life Support Equipment; select and administer the appropriate drug for an identified emergent condition according to local and national protocol and evaluate the patient's response to the therapy; identify potential scene safety threats, and when necessary, intervene using fundamental crisis intervention techniques; explain basic human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology related to human development and how it is relevant to providing emergency medical care; display professional behaviors complimentary to the profession through sound ethical decision making; practice emergency medicine under the scope of practice set forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and use critical thinking skills to confidently and effectively manage emergency situations.
This course covers EMS systems; workforce safety and wellness; medical, legal and ethical issues; medical terminology; lifespan development; lifting and moving patients; patient assessment; airway management; principles of pharmacology; shock; EMT skills; BLS resuscitation; respiratory emergencies; cardiovascular emergencies; neurologic emergencies; gastrointestinal emergencies; endocrine and hematologic emergencies; immunologic emergencies; toxicology; psychiatric emergencies; gynecologic emergencies; trauma; FEMA; bleeding; soft tissue injuries; face and neck injuries; head and neck injuries; head and spine injuries; environmental injuries; chest injuries; obstetrics and neonate care; geriatric emergencies; vehicle extrication and special rescue; incident management; terrorism response, and disaster management. Prerequisite: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
48 hours (8 weeks).
January 1994 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to describe a home health aide’s role in a private home or community setting; apply ethical and legal rules and regulations for direct care workers; demonstrate oral and written communication skills for speaking with patients, family, medical personnel, and other caregivers using appropriate language and terminology; apply standard procedures to maintain clean and safe environments for both themselves and their patients, including residential, transportation, and outside locations; demonstrate knowledge and skills in areas of science relevant to the home health aide’s role, including anatomy and physiology; apply standard practices to assist patients with the activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, physical movement, and mental exercise; assess patients’ physical and mental condition, including vital signs, behavior, activity level, and mental acuity; administer medications, prescribed treatments, and basic first aid as directed by patients’ healthcare manager (when appropriate and allowed); react appropriately to emergency situations; maintain accurate records of patient care, condition, progress, and change; create meal plans according to prescribed dietary recommendations and restrictions; develop an instructional plan to teach families how to care for patients and react to emotional, medical, and physical situations; and discuss unique practices and procedures involved with caring for special populations.
This course covers legal ethics; infection and safety in the home; personal care services; nutrition; cleaning care and tasks in the home; interpretation of medical role of the HHA and agency; and social needs of the people being served. Prerequisite: Current Nurse Assistant certification.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 2 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
160 hours (4 weeks).
September 1972 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to greet, receive, and direct patients and visitors at a contracted externship site; be familiar with preparing and managing patient medical records, including obtaining and recording patient's demographic data and insurance information; identify and use proper medical terminology, approved abbreviations, and symbols; be familiar with and assist with (if applicable) as needed: urinalysis, blood tests, and cultures; perform and properly document some vision and hearing tests; explain and perform venipuncture procedures, and pulmonary function testing/procedures; prepare examination room and organize equipment for patient procedures; assist with patient examinations, transfers, treatments, and minor surgeries; perform aseptic techniques. Four-week clinical experience may include assisting with the following, pursuant to site and patient/case needs: take vital signs, patient's height and weight, record data and report abnormalities; identify various documentation formats including paperless charting; position and drape patient for examination and/or treatment; identify basic medical instruments and equipment; calculate medication dosages and administration routes; explain intradermal testing (e.g., Mantoux, allergy); identify various drugs, drug classifications, and clinical indications; perform irrigation and/or lavage (ear and eye), suture or staple removal, dressing changes and related first aid; proper handwashing techniques; instruct patients in techniques for collection of specimens and preparations for diagnostic tests; communicate discharge plan instructions; identify subjective/objective assessment and plan for each patient; identify special considerations for pediatric, disability, disease progression, geriatric patients; HIPAA (including confidentiality, privacy, and security), and protected health information regulations (electronic and written); demonstrate understanding of OSHA protocols; demonstrate basic knowledge of electronic health records; and identify members of an interdisciplinary healthcare team and know the scope of practice for each.
This course covers complete patient care including vital signs, patient interview and history, and patient preparation; medical terminology; instrument and field sterilization; sterile procedure and surgical asepsis; minor surgery technique and instrumentation; wound care/durable medical equipment placement, and fitting; pulmonary function testing, including spirometry, peak flow, nebulizer administration and oximetry; ear lavage; basic pharmacology; injections and immunizations; specimen collection, preparation, and handling; urinalysis; venipuncture procedure, and blood handling; electrocardiography (EKG); specialty practice requirements (OB/GYN, pediatrics, orthopedic surgery, etc.); vast medical terminology knowledge including word roots, prefixes, and suffixes; front office administration knowledge such as appointment scheduling, accounts payable, ledgers, and balances, medical procedure prior authorization, and utilization management; CPT, ICD-9 and ICD.10 Coding; medical insurance billing (including HCFA form completion); and preparation for job applications and resumes in the medical environment.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
270 hours (20 weeks).
September 1972 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to greet, receive, and direct patients and visitors; prepare and manage patient medical records, including obtaining and recording patient's demographic data and insurance information; schedule and maintain patient appointment logs, including no-shows, call-backs, reschedules, and cancellations; identify different types of insurance (e.g., PPOs, HMOs, managed care and referrals including prescriptions); explain and use billing practices, including insurance forms, terminology, procedure, and diagnosis coding; demonstrate job-related computer skills (including word processing, terminology, and presentation software); identify and use medical terminology, approved abbreviations, and symbols; explain the relationship between anatomy, physiology, and pathology; demonstrate proficiency in basic medical math (conversions); demonstrate proper ECG procedures and other cardiovascular testing; demonstrate proficiency with laboratory procedures, collecting and preparing specimens, and point of care testing such as urinalysis, blood tests, and cultures; perform and properly document some vision and hearing tests; explain biomedical equipment usage and maintenance; complete ancillary medical services requisitions and logs; explain and perform venipuncture procedures, and pulmonary function testing/procedures; prepare examination room and organize equipment for patient procedures; assist with patient examinations, transfers, treatments, and minor surgeries; perform aseptic techniques (e.g., sterilization, sanitation, disinfection), and set up and maintain a sterile field; tray set up; take vital signs, patient's height and weight, record data and report abnormalities to physicians only (not patients); identify various documentation formats including paperless charting; position and drape patient for examination and/or treatment; identify basic medical instruments and equipment; calculate medication dosages and administration routes; explain intradermal testing (e.g., Mantoux, allergy); basic pharmacology; identify various drugs, drug classifications, and clinical indications; perform irrigation and/or lavage (ear and eye), suture or staple removal, dressing changes, and related first aid; outline nebulizer treatments/procedures; perform basic first aid and identify CPR/AED basic principles; discuss nutrition principles, therapeutic diets, and health and wellness practices; discuss cultural diversity awareness and holistic modalities; identify the stages of growth and development; define urinary procedures; define assistive devices; outline standard precaution practices and Safety Data Sheets (SDS); outline steps to handling and disposal of contaminated materials or spills; use proper handwashing techniques; instruct patients in techniques for collection of specimens and preparations for diagnostic tests; communicate discharge plan instructions; identify subjective/objective assessment and plan for each patient; identify special considerations for pediatric, disability, disease progression, geriatric patients; identify and adhere to legal documents, standards, statutes, and regulations (advanced directives, DNR, healthcare proxy), work ethics and professional standards; apply principles related to patient rights, HIPAA (including confidentiality, privacy, and security), and protected health information regulations (electronic and written); demonstrate understanding of OSHA protocols; demonstrate basic knowledge of electronic health records; and identify members of an interdisciplinary healthcare team and know the scope of practice for each.
This course covers complete patient care including vital signs, patient interview and history, and patient preparation; medical terminology; instrument and field sterilization; sterile procedure and surgical asepsis; minor surgery technique and instrumentation; wound care/durable medical equipment placement, and fitting; pulmonary function testing, including spirometry, peak flow, nebulizer administration and oximetry; ear lavage; basic pharmacology; Injections and immunizations; specimen collection, preparation and handling; urinalysis; venipuncture procedure and blood handling; electrocardiography (EKG); specialty practice requirements (OB/GYN, pediatrics, orthopedic surgery, etc.); vast medical terminology knowledge including word roots, prefixes, and suffixes; Front office administration knowledge such as appointment scheduling, accounts payable, ledgers, and balances, medical procedure prior authorization, and utilization management; CPT, ICD-9 and ICD.10 Coding; medical insurance billing (including HCFA form completion); and reparation for job applications and resumes in the medical environment. Prerequisite: High School diploma or equivalent recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, up to 15 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
100 hours (20 weeks).
May 1989 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to apply CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding guidelines to identify diagnoses, procedures, and patient medical records; identify the procedures for patient record retrieval and reimbursement; explain the role of a medical coder as a liaison between the health clinician and billing offices; apply computer and information literacy skills using electronic health records software; identify terms, facts, methods, procedures, concepts, theories, principles, and processes within medical billing and coding scenarios; classify relationships among data and items within medical billing and coding scenarios; recognize laws and theories, including issues relating to ethics and confidentiality; calculate solutions to mathematical problems related to reimbursement and medical mathematics; interpret information to make proper coding decisions; and review basic written and workplace communication skills.
This course covers patient advocacy, HIPAA and confidentiality, collecting and protecting patient information and medical records, completion of the CMS 1500 insurance claim form, accurate use of diagnostic and procedural coding systems (ICD-10-CM and CPT/HCPCS), insurance regulation and benefit structures such as Indemnity, PPO, EPO, and HMO in major third-party-payers including Medicare, Medi-Cal, Tricare, Commercial Group Health, exchange plans under the Affordable Care Act, and Worker's Compensation and Disability, basic bookkeeping for medical billing, including patient ledger, patient statements, reading the insurance explanation of benefits/remittance advice, applying contract discounts, applying insurance and patient payments and provisions of coordination of benefits, and the appeal of denied or underpaid claims and the biller's rights under California AB1455. Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and completion of Medical Terminology course are recommended; High School diploma or equivalent is also recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 7 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
260 hours (20 weeks).
October 1983 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills in areas of science relevant to the pharmacy technician’s role, including anatomy/physiology and pharmacology; compare and contrast the roles of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in ensuring pharmacy department compliance with professional standards and relevant legal, regulatory, formulary, contractual, and safety requirements; describe the steps, skills, and knowledge needed to prepare medications requiring compounding of sterile products, chemotherapy/ hazardous products, and nonsterile products; explain patient and medication-safety practices in all aspects of the pharmacy technician’s roles; demonstrate knowledge of quality assurance practices for pharmaceuticals, durable and nondurable medical equipment, devices, and supplies; define medication dosage forms, routes of administration and drug delivery systems; explain the meaning of terminology and abbreviations in prescription and medication orders; apply the steps in the medication order entry and fill process; process and interpret prescription and medication orders; demonstrate knowledge of accepted procedures in purchasing pharmaceuticals, devices, and supplies; describe the steps needed to initiate, verify, and assist in the adjudication of billing for pharmacy services and goods, and collecting payment for these services; describe the use of current technology in the healthcare environment to ensure the safety and accuracy of medication dispensing; explain the skills and strategies needed for professional and appropriate personal behavior and interpersonal communication; demonstrate familiarity and knowledge of brand versus generic names of common drugs; and explain all major classifications of drugs, their therapeutic side effects, dose recommendations, administration routes and mechanism of actions.
This course covers history, terminology, laws, and standards of the pharmaceutical profession including, but not limited to, effective communication, safety, patient advocacy, classification of drugs, mathematical calculations and conversations, and the ability to differentiate between types of medications and their purposes. Prerequisite: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, up to 15 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
120 hours (4 weeks).
October 1983 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to demonstrate, in a clinical setting, knowledge and skills in areas of science relevant to the pharmacy technician’s role, including anatomy/physiology and pharmacology; compare and contrast the roles of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in ensuring pharmacy department compliance with professional standards and relevant legal, regulatory, formulary, contractual, and safety requirements; describe the steps, skills, and knowledge needed to prepare medications requiring compounding of sterile products, chemotherapy/ hazardous products, and nonsterile products; explain patient and medication-safety practices in all aspects of the pharmacy technician’s roles; demonstrate knowledge of quality assurance practices for pharmaceuticals, durable and nondurable medical equipment, devices, and supplies; define medication dosage forms, routes of administration and drug delivery systems; explain the meaning of terminology and abbreviations in prescription and medication orders; apply the steps in the medication order entry and fill process; process and interpret prescription and medication orders; demonstrate knowledge of accepted procedures in purchasing pharmaceuticals, devices, and supplies; describe the steps needed to initiate, verify, and assist in the adjudication of billing for pharmacy services and goods, and collecting payment for these services; describe the use of current technology in the healthcare environment to ensure the safety and accuracy of medication dispensing; explain the skills and strategies needed for professional and appropriate personal behavior and interpersonal communication; demonstrate familiarity and knowledge of brand versus generic names of common drugs; and explain all major classifications of drugs, their therapeutic side effects, dose recommendations, administration routes and mechanism of actions.
This course covers history, terminology, laws, and standards of the pharmaceutical profession including, but not limited to, effective communication, safety, patient advocacy, classification of drugs, mathematical calculations and conversations, and the ability to differentiate between types of medications and their purposes. Prerequisite: Successful achievement of Pharmacy Technician AH 208 course skills and instructor recommendation.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
115 hours (13 weeks).
January 1996 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to explain the function and structure of the capillaries, veins and arteries; explain the purpose and proper technique for using tourniquets; identify the names and locations of the veins suitable for venous and capillary blood collections; demonstrate aptitude with proper blood draw practices, including selecting appropriate equipment, identifying sites of capillary puncture, and labeling specimens correctly; perform blood collection by venipuncture and skin puncture to obtain high quality specimens for clinical laboratory analysis; demonstrated ability to collect and process blood specimens according to laboratory protocol; demonstrate proper tube collection and order of draw; identify additives in blood collection tubes; explain lab tests; recognize factors that affect procedures and results, and take appropriate actions within predetermined limits when corrections are indicated; demonstrate safe and effective use of equipment and supplies used for blood collection and specimen transport; identify blood borne pathogens, biological hazards, and waste; demonstrated ability to adhere to personal safety and rules for the laboratory, needle sticks, procedure and post-exposure follow-up; demonstrate professional conduct and effective interpersonal communication skills with patients, laboratory personnel, other health care professionals, and with the public; recognize the responsibilities of other laboratory and health care personnel and interact with them with respect for their jobs and patient care; and demonstrate a knowledge of government and industry standards related to the collection of blood.
This course covers medical terminology, infection control, universal precautions, medical aseptic hand washing, patient identification, anatomy and physiology, circulatory system, tourniquets, skin punctures, blood collection equipment, selection of anatomical site, blood components, order of draw, routine venipuncture, blood borne pathogens, biological hazards and waste, centrifuge demonstration and its use, personal safety and rules for the laboratory, needle sticks, procedure and post-exposure follow-up, blood smears demonstration, environmental controls, and waste disposal. Prerequisite: High school diploma or equivalent recommended.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 5 semester hours in Allied Health (4/22).
Respiratory Therapy - Simi Institute for Careers & Education
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: identify the types of ventilator failure; list the indications for ventilator support; discuss the mechanisms of hypercapnic respiratory failure; demonstrate how to classify a ventilator; discuss clinical applications of ventilator modes; explain and diagram the physiological effects of modes of ventilation, flow pattern, flow rate, inspiratory hold, and positive end-expiratory pressure; give examples of the detrimental pulmonary effects of PPV and cardiovascular effects of PPV; propose initial ventilator support settings and rationalize the proper adjustment of settings; perform general patient assessment; synthesize physiological monitoring principles; interpret assessments of hemodynamics; assess the management of the patient-ventilator system; examine patient evaluation criteria and methods of discontinuing ventilator support; summarize the development and transition of the respiratory system and assessment of the newborn and pediatric care patient.
The course provides students with knowledge of acute and critical care respiratory care principles. Major topics include: respiratory failure and the need for ventilatory support; ventilatory modes and functions; physics and physiology of ventilatory support; initiating and adjusting ventilatory support; monitoring, managing, and discontinuing ventilatory support; and principles of neonatal and pediatric respiratory care. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, computer software exercises, observations, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: explain how to assess the need for oxygen therapy; identify and examine precautions and complications associated with oxygen therapy; describe the characteristics, storage, distribution, and regulation of medical gases; calculate when to humidify and warm inspired gas; compare how various types of humidifiers and large volume aerosol generators work; argue the need for lung expansion therapy; outline how lung expansion therapy works; list the indications, hazards, and complications that are associated with the various modes of lung expansion therapy; summarize the need for and the selection of an artificial airway; discuss the complications and hazards that are associated with artificial airways; safely perform endotracheal and nasotracheal suctioning; summarize the goals, indications, and methods of needs assessment for bronchial hygiene therapy; and successfully demonstrate the skills required to earn an Advanced Life Support Certification.
The course provides students with knowledge of medical gas delivery to respiratory patients and provides discussion of physiology of the airways from the nares to the terminal bronchi. The course gives respiratory students information regarding methods to bypass the natural airways and supply oxygen to patients’ bodies and remove carbon dioxide. The course also covers ways to deliver medication to patients through direct interaction with the lungs. Major topics include: physiology of the natural airway, detailed description of artificial airways and their placement in the patient's body, regulation of humidity in natural and artificial airways, delivery of medication to the patient using the airways, medical gases and their safe handling, techniques to provide lung expansion and airway clearance to patients, and advanced cardiac life support certification. Methods of instruction include: lecture, exams, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, audio/visual presentations, and computer interaction.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: state and explain the physical laws and theories, and the physiologic and technical applications to respiratory patient care; define physics and identify its applications in respiratory therapy; define work and force; describe the relationship between the applied force and the direction on motion; define power; define energy; contrast the two forms of energy; describe the relationship between work and kinetic energy; contrast the relationship between work and potential energy; discuss how potential energy and kinetic energy convert from one form of energy to another; discuss the kinetic theory of matter; discuss the kinetic molecular theory of gases; discuss the change of states of matter, transition diagrams for matter; understand the properties of temperature and pressure as it relates to gases and liquids; define and utilize density in calculations; understand buoyancy and viscosity and their application; define pressure; state the various pressure equivalents of one atmosphere; perform mathematical conversions using the various ways of expressing pressure discuss the graphic representation of Boyle's and Charles' laws; perform calculations using Boyle's law, Charles' law, and Gay-Lussac's law; apply Dalton's law of partial pressures to the gas mixtures in the atmosphere, trachea, and alveoli; understand the laws of diffusion; apply principles and laws of fluid dynamics to various fluid conducting systems; relate the law of continuity to ventilatory and circulatory physiology; discuss fluid viscosity; discuss the principles of electronics and electricity; discuss magnetism and relation to electric charge; explain paramagnetism of oxygen; relate monitoring Ohm’s Law (Volts, Amps, Resistance); understanding simple electrical circuits and electrical shock safety.
The course provides the fundamentals of medical gas therapy, lung expansion therapy and artificial airway care, the fundamentals of bronchial hygiene, and the essential principles of physics that apply to basic respiratory care therapeutics, equipment, and cardiopulmonary physiology. Major topics include: storage and delivery of medical gases, medical gas therapy, humidity/aerosol therapy and aerosol drug therapy, lung expansion therapy, airway management, bronchial hygiene therapy; and the physics as related to the states and changes of matter, heat transfer, gas/liquid/solid properties, gas laws, fluid dynamics, and mechanics of ventilation. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, computer software exercises, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
- Formerly Anatomy and Physiology for Respiratory Care RC 102
- Formerly Anatomy and Physiology RC 102
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: identify gross and microscopic components of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems; anatomical and physiological terminology; explain the how structures (anatomy) of these components support their functions (physiology) at the molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ/organ system levels; apply the concept of homeostasis to human physiological activity; identify major organic and inorganic chemicals as they relate to the human body; describe cellular structure and cellular activity; discuss anatomical and physiological features of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and sensory systems; evaluate select pathological conditions as they relate to normal functioning of the above-named systems; and assess for features of biochemical and cellular physiology, as well as neuronal integration of various body processes.
The course provides students with knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. Major topics include: organization and general plan of the body; basic chemistry; cells; tissues and membranes; the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immunologic, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, and renal systems; special senses; fluid electrolytes and acid-base; human development and genetics; and an overview of microbiology and human disease. Methods of instruction include lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, software programs, completion of workbook, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Anatomy and Physiology (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: describe the gross structure and function of the thorax, innervation of the lung and thoracic musculature, the vascular supply, anatomy of the respiratory tract, the functional anatomy of the heart and vascular system, control of the cardiovascular system, and events of the cardiac cycle; explain the principles relating to mechanics, distribution, efficiency, and effectiveness of ventilation; compare and contrast principles relating to normal and abnormal gas exchange, oxygen and carbon dioxide transport, principles of solutions, and body fluids and electrolytes as they relate to respiratory care; and discuss principles of acid-base balance, acid excretion, acid-base disturbances and clinical acid-base states as they relate to respiratory care, and the regulation of breathing and the various reflexes' effect on breathing.
The course provides students with knowledge of cardiovascular system anatomy and physiology, respiratory anatomy, and detailed respiratory physiology, including acid-base balance. Major topics include: anatomy and physiology of the respiratory and cardiovascular system, mechanics of ventilation, gas exchange and transport, solutions, body fluids and electrolytes, acid-base balance, and regulation of breathing. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, audio/visual material, computer software exercises, learner presentations/reports, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: perform patient interviews; explain the principles of and purpose of patient interviewing, history taking, and physical examinations; summarize the mechanics responsible for normal and abnormal lung sounds; interpret normal and abnormal ECG recordings; interpret blood count, blood chemistry, and electrolyte readings; detail the gram stain and culture process; describe sampling, analyzing, and monitoring of blood gases; explain oximetry, capnometry, and capnography; outline how to perform spirometry; defend how to use pulmonary function data to evaluate respiratory care; demonstrate how to review a pulmonary function report to identify patterns of pulmonary disease; and give examples of how chest imaging is used in the diagnosis of lung disease; interpret chest imaging studies.
The course provides students with knowledge of assessment of respiratory patients. Proper assessment allows students to correctly interpret patients' condition and recommend appropriate treatment methods. Major topics include: basic physiologic mechanisms that regulate breathing, the basic components of taking medical histories and completing physical examinations, the common blood tests conducted on patients in the hospital, why and how ECGs are done and interpreted, analyzing and monitoring gas exchange – between the lungs and blood and between blood and tissues, the basics of capacities, and the ability of the lungs to diffuse gases, the basic elements of a chest x-ray (chest radiograph), advanced imaging, CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound, nutritional assessment and how to estimate and meet overall energy needs. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, audio/visual material, and computer interaction.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: list the elements of an epidemiological outline; given a disease topic, state the etiology; summarize the diagnostic criteria; list the clinical manifestations; outline the treatment, prognosis, and preventive measures for each disease; diagram and explain basic principles of pharmacology, airway receptors, and neural control of the lung; define mode of action, indications, and adverse effects for each major class of aerosolized drug; recall the brand names and dosages for specific drugs in each class; and explain how to assess the outcomes of aerosol drug therapy.
The course provides the study of the etiology, pathology, clinical features, treatment of the more common cardiopulmonary diseases, and respiratory pharmacology. Major topics include: pulmonary infections, obstructive lung disease, interstitial lung disease, pleural diseases, pulmonary vascular disease, acute lung injury, pulmonary edema, multiple system organ failure, lung neoplasm, disorders of sleep, neuromuscular and other diseases of the chest wall, neonatal and pediatric respiratory disorders, and respiratory care pharmacology. Methods of instruction include lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, audio/visual materials, computer software exercises, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
Version 1: 250 hours (20 weeks). Version 2: 250 hours (12 weeks).
Version 1: January 2015 - July 2019. Version 2: August 2019 - Present.
Versions 1 and 2: Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: collect and evaluate clinical information; formulate patients’ therapeutic plans; select, assemble, check, and correct malfunction of equipment; maintain airways; mobilize and remove secretions; assure ventilation and oxygenation; assess patient response and modify therapy based on patient response; initiate emergency resuscitation; maintain records; and conduct patient education.
Versions 1 and 2: The goal of the course is to provide students with experiences and opportunities to practice respiratory care working with patients in clinical care settings including; general medical/surgical units, intensive care units, emergency departments, post-surgical units, hyperbaric oxygen chamber units, labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, pediatric units, and inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation units. The major topics discussed or observed include: all skills, terminology, assessment procedures learned throughout the program. Methods of instruction include: observation of licensed respiratory therapists, hands on supervised practice, discussion with clinical instructors, and documentation of procedures performed.
Version 1: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation). Note: Students repeat Clinical Practice in Respiratory Care RC 23 twice for a total of 8 semester hours. Version 2: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (8/21 administrative review). Note: Students repeat Clinical Practice in Respiratory Care RC 230 three times for a total of 12 semester hours.
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: state the elements that constitute quality respiratory care; explain how the efficacy of respiratory care protocol enhances the quality of respiratory care services; outline elements of ethical dilemmas; list and discuss information that should be gathered before making an ethical decision; categorize elements of professional malpractice and negligence; reconstruct how a Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) can become liable for wrongful acts; give examples of what safety hazards and risks are common among patients receiving respiratory care; describe and demonstrate safe patient movement and ambulation; examine and evaluate elements of effective health communication and conflict resolution; compare and contrast the components of a traditional medical record and the legal and practical elements of recordkeeping; identify the causes and prevention of sudden death; and obtain basic life support certification.
The course provides students with knowledge of introductory principles in the delivery of quality respiratory care, including ethics and legal implications of practice, recordkeeping, and emergency life support. Major topics include: elements that constitute quality respiratory care, the effect of respiratory care protocols on the quality of respiratory care services delivered, ethical and legal implications of practice, patient safety, communication and recordkeeping, and emergency and basic life support certification. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, and computer software exercises.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
- Formerly Math and Science for Respiratory Care RC 103
200 hours (20 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: express in proper scientific notation answers obtained from mathematical calculations; differentiate between the precision and accuracy of measurement; discuss how to solve mathematical problems using ratios; apply proportions to mathematical problems; compare and contrast the term volumes percent from an expression that relates to an actual percentage; apply dimensional analysis to solving mathematical problems; describe International System of Units; determine the logarithm of a number and obtain antilogarithms; interpret graphic representation of data; define independent variable and dependent variable; understand the differences among hyperbolic, parabolic, and straight line curves; recognize different forms of algebraic expressions; locate positive and negative numbers located on a number line; state the rules for order of operations; identify terms in an algebraic expression; describe a formula; define a reciprocal relationship; name the three fundamental subatomic particles comprising an element; distinguish atomic weight from atomic mass; discuss electron configuration; explain the three types of chemical bonding; state Henry's law of solubility; the two forms of Graham's law of diffusion; articulate the following terms: Solution, Solute, Solvent, Mole, or gram molecular weight; relate the law of mass action to the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation; compute the density and specific gravity for gases and liquids; define thermal energy, temperature and the components of an electrochemical cell; distinguish between oxidation and reduction; describe the flow of current through an electrochemical cell; detail the structural similarities of a typical living cell; discuss the chemistry associated with a typical living cell; explain basic principles of organic chemistry; relate biochemical roles of carbohydrates; describe biochemical roles of proteins; explain biochemical roles of lipids; relate biochemical roles of nucleic acids; and discuss the biochemistry of the hemoglobin molecule.
The course provides the basis for and the application of mathematics and chemistry in healthcare settings. Major topics include: math, exponents, significant digits, ratios, proportions, percents, units of measurement, logarithms, graphs, algebraic expression, real numbers/comparisons, order of operations, combining like terms, evaluating formulae, and reciprocal relationships; and, chemistry, characteristics of solutes and solutions, osmotic pressure, solute/solution measures by ratio, weight/volume, and percent, ionic makeup of acids, bases, and slats, and blood pH values. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, computer software exercises, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
- Formerly Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100
- Formerly Medical Terminology RC 100
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Given a medical term, definition, or list of phrases, students will be able to: describe the component parts of medical terms; analyze the component parts of medical terms; use basic prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms to build medical terms; explain common rules for proper medical term formation, pronunciation, and spelling; relate the terminology to the names, locations, and functions of the major organs of the body systems; discuss the terms utilized for the major disease processes including symptoms, diagnosis, diagnostic testing, surgeries, and therapies; define basic terms and abbreviations used in documenting health records; use common terms and abbreviations in documenting medical records related to the major systems of the body; and identify medical terminology and health issues as they apply to a culturally diverse populations.
The course provides students with a fundamental knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations. Emphasis is placed on spelling, definition, usage, and pronunciation. Major topics include: medical terms, prefixes, suffixes, word roots, and combining forms for the skeletal, muscular, integumentary, nervous, cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive, renal, lymphatic, respiratory, reproductive systems, and medical and charting abbreviations. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, use of a programmed learning text, computer software exercises, observations, a written paper, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: classify microbes, bacterial morphology, straining characteristics, growth requirements, and growth control; compare and contrast the roles of normal flora, fungi, and viruses in health and disease; demonstrate and summarize the importance of infection control in health care; outline methods of sterilization and decontamination; describe methods to monitor the effectiveness of the sterilization process; and define the role of the Respiratory Care Practitioner (RCP) in bacteriologic surveillance and hospital epidemiology.
The course provides students with fundamental knowledge of microbiology, its role in the human disease process, principles of infection control and the prevention of nosocomial infections. Major topics include: fundamentals of microbiology; the diagnosis and treatment of patients having bacterial, viral, or fungal diseases; the disinfection and sterilization of respiratory therapy equipment; the adherence to and the utilization of appropriate isolation procedures; and the prevention of nosocomial infections. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, computer software exercises, observations, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 4 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
50 hours (5 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: outline patient education, principles and strategies, health promotion, and disease prevention; describe how comprehensive nutritional assessments are conducted; interpret and give examples of the principles of maintaining health through good nutrition; list and explain the elements of nutritional assessment; categorize the goals and objectives of a pulmonary rehabilitation program; justify outcome measures that can be used to evaluate pulmonary rehabilitation programs; define and explain what equipment and facilities are needed to run a pulmonary rehabilitation program; discuss alternative or post-acute care settings; formulate an effective discharge plan; give examples that illustrate how to select, assemble, monitor, and maintain oxygen therapy equipment in alternative settings; summarize the special needs of the gerontology patient; and successfully demonstrate all skills necessary to obtain Neonatal Resuscitation Program certification.
The course provides students with knowledge of health promotion, disease prevention, and long-term care of respiratory patients with emphasis on the care and psychological aspects of gerontology patients. Major topics include: patient education and health promotion, nutritional aspects of health and disease, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, respiratory care in alternative settings, and care of gerontology patients. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, computer software exercises, worksheet completion, and exams.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 2 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
100 hours (10 weeks).
January 2015 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be prepared to sit for board exams with the National Board of Respiratory Care to become Registered Respiratory Therapists; understand format of questions; gauge progression of exam in relation to time allotted; understand physical demands with multiple hour examinations; recall information needed to pass required number of questions; assess available data to order diagnostic data in the simulation setting; interpret data gathered to make a recommendation of action in the simulation setting; and recover from mistakes to complete the required number of simulations to pass the simulation exam.
The course provides students with the information and computer test taking skills to successfully pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) Certification Exam (CRT) for respiratory care. Major topics include: respiratory care clinical data, equipment and therapeutic procedures and practice in computer-based examination test-taking skills. Methods of instruction include: lecture, discussion, classroom exercises, laboratory exercises, and computer software exercises.
In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Respiratory Care (4/17) (4/22 revalidation).
Surgical Technology - Simi Institute for Careers & Education
400 hours (10 weeks) - repeated for credit.
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to practice and maintain aseptic technique at all times; demonstrate knowledge of basic instrumentation and proper use; demonstrate knowledge of surgical anatomy; demonstrate correct usage and passing of instrumentation; demonstrate correct usage of suture material; recognize and correct breaks in aseptic technique; demonstrate professionalism and the ability to follow directives; demonstrate knowledge of draping; recognize indications for procedures; demonstrate adaptability to change; demonstrate the ability to count sponges/instruments according to the hospital policy and procedures; demonstrate knowledge of utilizing the doctor’s preference cards; demonstrate knowledge of scrubbing, gowning, and gloving according to hospital policy; efficiently anticipate the surgeon’s needs; identify and handle specimens according to hospital policy; observe strict adherence to “Universal Precautions” according to hospital policy; and maintain an acceptable record of attendance and evaluations.
The course covers knowledge and skills required for hands-on surgical technology scrub role and circulator role experience in an operating room setting, under the direct supervision of a hospital preceptor and clinical instructor. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Microbiology and Infection Control RC 101/ST 101; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200; Principles and Practices of Surgical Technology ST 201; Pharmacology ST 202; Surgical Procedures ST 203; Surgical Technologist Career Preparation ST 204. NOTE: this course includes three different rotations.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
140 hours (10 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to demonstrate the principles of communication in the surgical setting; trace the historical development of surgical technology; recognize members of the surgical team and their roles; describe the surgical technology professional organizations: AST, ARC/STSA, and NBSTSA; compare and contrast the various roles of the surgical technologist; interpret the components of a job description for the surgical technologist; analyze the components of effective teamwork and communication; discuss the meaning of surgical conscience and its application to surgical technology; summarize the different types of health care facilities; analyze a typical hospital organizational structure; classify hospital departments and their relationship to surgical services; analyze the legal concepts that pertain to surgical technology; interpret the legal responsibilities of the certified surgical technologist and other surgical team members; compare and contrast criminal and civil liabilities and the consequences of these acts; analyze the American Hospital Association’s Patient Care Partnership; describe the need for professional liability insurance policies; analyze the key elements related to the development of a surgical conscience; assess the resources available to the certified surgical technologist to interpret and follow professional standards of conduct; develop an increased sensitivity to the influence of ethics in professional practice; analyze the role that morality plays during ethical decision making; cite examples of ethical situations and problems in the health professions; analyze scope of practice issues as they relate to surgical technology; interpret prevention, correction, and documentation techniques that may positively affect risk management issues; analyze the recommended practices and legal elements of proper documentation; apply principles of problem solving to ethical decision making; assess the errors that may occur in the operating room and devise a plan for investigation, correction, and notification; assess the patient’s response to illness and hospitalization; demonstrate awareness that all surgical patients have the right to the highest standards and practices in asepsis; distinguish and assess the physical, spiritual, and psychological needs of a patient; distinguish and assess cultural and religious influences of the surgical patient; compare and contrast the patient’s responses to the process of death; discuss the procedure for a patient death in the operating room; compare and contrast the surgical care considerations for pediatric patients and patients who are obese, diabetic, pregnant, immunocompromised, disabled, or geriatric, as well as trauma patients; evaluate the unique physical and psychological needs of each special population; compare and contrast the intraoperative considerations for pediatric patients, trauma patients, and patients who are obese, diabetic, immunocompromised, or geriatric that relate to postoperative wound healing; evaluate the role of the CST for the surgical care of each special population; assess the ethical commitment that is required of CSTs as it relates to special populations care; determine the general needs associated with special populations of surgical patients; recognize the hazards to the patient in the operative environment; distinguish among the support services that work with the operating room team in the care of the patient; review the type of air-handling system required in the operating room and the temperature and humidity required to maintain a sterile field; indicate cleaning procedures, traffic patterns, and routines required in the operative environment; analyze the role of the surgical technologist in the protection of self, patients, and others from hazards in the operative environment; recognize the design types of the operating room; classify hospital departments that relate to surgical services; recognize the working environment of the operating room; determine the physical components of the operating room; explain the relationship between instrumentation, equipment, and supplies and quality patient care in the operating room; explain the relationship between instruments, equipment, and supplies and the operating room environment with safety concepts; indicate items that require sterilization prior to use in the sterile field; recognize basic instruments by type, function, and name; demonstrate proper care, handling, and assembly of instruments; differentiate the types of special equipment utilized in operating room practice and demonstrate proper care, handling techniques, and safety precautions; cite the names and functions of accessory equipment and demonstrate proper care, handling, and assembly; collect and prepare supplies used in the operating room; analyze the role of the surgical technologist in caring for the surgical patient; verify the preoperative routines that must be completed; demonstrate the transportation of the surgical patient; apply the principles of surgical positioning; demonstrate techniques of opening and preparing supplies and instruments needed for any operative procedure with the maintenance of sterile techniques at all times; summarize the methods of preparation of the operative site for surgery; demonstrate the application of thermoregulatory devices; interpret the principles and demonstrate the taking and recording of vital signs; interpret the principles of urinary catheterization and demonstrate the procedure; analyze how the principles of operative site preparation and urinary catheterization are related both to patient care and to the principles of asepsis; demonstrate the proper techniques for the surgical hand scrub, gowning, gloving, and assisting team members; demonstrate the proper technique for preparing supplies and instruments on a sterile field; demonstrate and explain in detail the procedure for counting instruments, sponges, needles, and other items on the sterile field; demonstrate the initial steps for starting a procedure; demonstrate intraoperative handling of sterile equipment and supplies; and summarize and demonstrate postoperative routines.
This course covers biomedical science and minimally invasive surgery, information technology, electricity and surgical applications of energy modalities, surgical robots, the hybrid operating room, wound healing and wound closure, blood loss and replacement, sutures and needles, and suturing techniques. Prerequisite: Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
70 hours (10 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to calculate equivalent conversions from one system to another; define general terminology associated with drugs; classify various drugs according to type; identify compressed gases by standard tank colors; delineate principles of drug use in surgical patient care; recognize a drug by its generic name, trade name, and chemical names; identify application, action, and effect; identify effect associated with common drug classes and their representative prototypes; describe differences between side effects, synergistic reactions, and idiosyncratic reactions; explain the principles of anesthesia; describe common surgical medications and solutions, anesthesia and adjunct medications, pre-medications, induction agents, muscle relaxants, narcotics, antibiotics, and inhalation agents; differentiate between intra-muscular, subcutaneous, and intravenous methods of drug administrations; differentiate between drug forms: elixir, tinctures, emulsion, aerosol, and liniment; describe the use of hypothermia and muscle relaxants as an adjunct to anesthesia; explain characteristics and use of contrast media and dyes in the operating room; identify, mix, measure, and pour medications for use on the sterile field; and characterize the role of the surgical technologist in safe handling of drugs according to operating room policies and procedures.
This course covers calculations, science, development, regulations, antibiotics, hormones, diagnostic agents, ophthalmic agents, cardiac drugs, pre-op medications, antiemetics, patient monitoring, local and regional anesthesia, surgical pharmacology, general anesthesia, and emergency situations. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
140 hours (10 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to identify basic components of a computer system; discuss basic word processing, Internet, and email functions; describe the role of computers in patient care; apply electrical safety precautions; cite the basic principles of electricity and their application in the operating room; compare and contrast the various surgical lasers and their clinical applications; describe the benefit of a hybrid operating room for reduction of healthcare acquired infection (HAI); describe the role of the certified surgical technologist in robotic procedures; discuss the potential risks for patients and surgical team members from use of lasers, electrosurgery, and diagnostic radiation; compare and contrast methods of hemostasis and blood replacement; demonstrate the preparation and use of appropriate hemostatic agents or devices; indicate terms relevant to wound healing; summarize the possible complications of wound healing; recognize the classifications of surgical wounds; indicate types of traumatic wounds and give examples of each; analyze the factors that influence healing and how they affect the healing process; recognize the characteristics of inflammation; cite and interpret common suture terms; classify and differentiate the usage of suture materials and stapling devices; recognize the types, characteristics, and uses of suture materials; demonstrate application of recommended preparation and handling techniques for suturing and stapling devices; cite and interpret common suture techniques; summarize the basic uses and advantages of stapling instruments; demonstrate proper handling of the various types of surgical needles; assess the types of injuries that cause damage to tissues; recognize the characteristics of the types of healing; recognize the stages/phases of wound healing; apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to determine which diagnostic examinations will be useful; indicate the sources of patient data; compare and contrast intraoperative techniques used to establish the diagnosis; determine which diagnostic procedures are invasive and require sterile technique; and recognize the major indications for surgical intervention.
This course covers biomedical science and minimally invasive surgery, information technology, electricity and surgical applications of energy modalities, surgical robots, the hybrid operating room, wound healing and wound closure, blood loss and replacement, sutures and needles, and suturing techniques. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
180 hours (10 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to explain the importance of surgical asepsis, scrubbing, gowning and gloving, prepping and draping the surgical patient; recognize the relevant anatomy and terminology as related to the surgical procedure; indicate the pathology related to general surgery procedures; recall the names and uses of general surgery instruments, supplies, and specialty equipment; determine the intraoperative preparations of the patient specific to the illustrative procedures; summarize the surgical steps of illustrative general surgery procedures in this chapter; identify the purpose and expected outcomes of the illustrative procedures; determine the immediate postoperative care of the patient and possible complications of the illustrative procedures determine any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the general surgery patient; recognize the relevant anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system; summarize the pathology of the female reproductive system that prompts surgical intervention and the related terminology; determine any special preoperative obstetric and gynecologic diagnostic procedures/tests; determine any special preoperative preparation procedures related to obstetric/gynecologic procedures; indicate the names and uses of obstetric and gynecologic instruments, supplies, and drugs; indicate the names and uses of special equipment related to obstetric/gynecologic surgery; determine the intraoperative preparations of the patient undergoing an obstetric or gynecologic procedure; summarize the surgical steps of obstetric/gynecologic procedure; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the obstetric/ gynecologic procedure; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the obstetric/ gynecologic procedure; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the obstetric/gynecologic patient; recognize the anatomy of the eye; summarize the pathology that prompts surgical intervention of the eye and related terminology; determine any special preoperative preparation procedures; indicate the names and uses of ophthalmic instruments, supplies, and drugs; indicate the names and uses of special equipment; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing an ophthalmic procedure; summarize the surgical steps of ophthalmic procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the ophthalmic procedure; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the ophthalmic procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the ophthalmic patient; recognize the relevant anatomy of the ear, nose, and upper aero-digestive tract; summarize the pathology that prompts otorhinolaryngologic surgical intervention and the related terminology. determine any special preoperative otorhinolaryngologic preparation and diagnostic procedures/tests; indicate the names and uses of otorhinolaryngologic instruments, supplies, and specialty equipment; determine the intraoperative preparations of the patient undergoing otorhinolaryngologic procedures; summarize the surgical steps of the otorhinolaryngologic procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the otorhinolaryngologic procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the otorhinolaryngologic procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the otorhinolaryngologic patient; recognize the anatomy relevant to specific procedures in oral and maxillofacial surgery; summarize the pathology that prompts oral and maxillofacial surgery and the related terminology; determine special preoperative diagnostic procedures/tests pertaining to oral and maxillofacial surgery; determine special preoperative preparation procedures related to oral and maxillofacial surgery; indicate the names and uses of oral and maxillofacial instruments, supplies, and drugs; indicate the names and uses of special equipment used for oral and maxillofacial surgery; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing an oral or maxillofacial procedure; summarize the surgical steps of oral or maxillofacial procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the surgical patient; recognize the relevant anatomy and physiology of the skin and its underlying tissues; summarize the pathology that prompts plastic/reconstructive surgical intervention and the related terminology; determine any special preoperative plastic/reconstructive preparation and diagnostic procedures/tests; indicate the names and uses of plastic/reconstructive instruments, supplies, and specialty equipment; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing a plastic/ reconstructive procedure; summarize the surgical steps of the plastic/reconstructive procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the plastic/ reconstructive procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the plastic/ reconstructive procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the plastic/reconstructive patient; recognize the relevant anatomy of the genitourinary system; recognize the pathology that prompts genitourinary system surgical intervention and the related terminology; assess any special preoperative genitourinary diagnostic procedures/tests; assess any special preoperative genitourinary preparation procedures; indicate the names and uses of genitourinary instruments, supplies, and specialty equipment; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing a genitourinary procedure; summarize the steps of the genitourinary procedures; determine the purpose and expected outcomes of the genitourinary procedures; assess the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the genitourinary procedures; recognize any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the genitourinary patient; recognize the relevant anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system; summarize the pathology of the musculoskeletal system that prompts surgical intervention and the related terminology; determine any preoperative orthopedic diagnostic procedures/tests; determine any special preoperative preparation related to orthopedic procedures; indicate the names and uses of orthopedic instruments, equipment, and supplies; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing an orthopedic procedure; summarize the surgical steps of the orthopedic procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the orthopedic procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the orthopedic procedures; recognize the relevant anatomy of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems; summarize the pathology that prompts cardiac or thoracic surgical intervention and the related terminology; determine any special preoperative diagnostic procedures/tests for the patient undergoing cardiac or thoracic surgery; determine any preoperative preparation procedures; indicate the names and uses of cardiovascular and thoracic equipment, instruments, and supplies; summarize the surgical steps of the cardiac and thoracic procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the cardiac and thoracic procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the cardiac and thoracic procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the patient undergoing a cardiac or thoracic procedure; recognize the relevant anatomy of the peripheral vascular system; summarize the pathology that prompts surgical intervention of the peripheral vascular system and the related terminology; determine any special preoperative peripheral vascular preparation and diagnostic procedures; indicate the names and uses of peripheral vascular equipment, instruments, and supplies; determine the intraoperative preparations of the patient undergoing peripheral vascular procedures; summarize the surgical steps of peripheral vascular procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of peripheral vascular procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of peripheral vascular procedures; assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the patient undergoing peripheral vascular surgery; recognize the relevant anatomy and physiology of the neurological system; summarize the pathology that prompts surgical intervention of the neurological system and the related terminology; determine any special preoperative neurological diagnostic procedures/tests; indicate the names and uses of neurosurgical instruments, supplies, and drugs; indicate the names and uses of special equipment related to neurosurgery; determine the intraoperative preparation of the patient undergoing a neurosurgical procedure; summarize the surgical steps of the neurosurgical procedures; interpret the purpose and expected outcomes of the neurosurgical procedures; recognize the immediate postoperative care and possible complications of the neurosurgical procedures; and assess any specific variations related to the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care of the neurosurgical patient.
This course covers general, OB/GYN, ophthalmic, otorhinolaryngologic, oral and maxillofacial, plastic and reconstructive, genitourinary, orthopedic, cardiothoracic, peripheral vascular, and neurosurgery, in accordance with content studied in a sterile field under the supervision of the instructor. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Microbiology and Infection Control RC 101/ST 101; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200; Principles and Practices of Surgical Technology ST 201; Pharmacology ST 202.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
180 hours (10 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to obtain certifications in BLS and Fire Safety; understand the role they play in the operating room and how it relates to other team members; complete the onboarding process at a hospital site; be able to successfully submit a current resume for a potential job; write an effective cover letter; implement a focused job search plan; and have the knowledge and understanding of how to successfully interview for a surgical technologist position.
This course covers basic life support training, fire card training, N95 mask fitting, the roles and responsibilities of the surgical team, and learning the specific requirements of the onboarding process at hospital sites. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Microbiology and Infection Control RC 101/ST 101; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200; Principles and Practices of Surgical Technology ST 201; Pharmacology ST 202.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
50 hours (2 weeks).
September 2000 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to explain the purpose of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting’s Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Exam; identify the main topics tested on the CST exam; demonstrate knowledge of perioperative care including preoperative preparation, intraoperative procedures, and postoperative procedures; explain the ancillary duties of a surgical technologist as they relate to administrative and personnel; identify proper equipment sterilization and maintenance procedures; recognize appropriate medical terminology and abbreviations; demonstrate knowledge of human physiology as it relates to surgical procedures; identify surgical pathologies; and apply the principals of surgical pharmacology to operative practice.
This course covers knowledge and skills required of competent entry-level technologists, including specific techniques in perioperative care, intraoperative and post-operative procedures, and basic science. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology RC 100/ST 100; Microbiology and Infection Control RC 101/ST 101; Anatomy and Physiology for Healthcare Professionals RC 102/ST 102; Math and Science for Healthcare Professionals RC 103/ST 103; Introduction to Surgical Technology ST 200; Principles and Practices of Surgical Technology ST 201; Pharmacology ST 202; Surgical Procedures ST 203; Surgical Technologist Career Preparation ST 204; Clinical Practice in Surgical Technology ST 205A.
In the associate/certificate degree category, 3 semester hours in Surgical Technology (4/22).
