Respiratory Care Pharmacology Syllabus for 2024-2025
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. <strong>The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor. </strong>

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

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If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

RSPT-2217-001 Respiratory Care Pharmacology

Prerequisites

Course Description

A study of drugs that affect cardiopulmonary systems. Emphasis on classification, route of administration, dosages/calculations and physiological interactions.

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(2 sem hrs; 2 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Gardenhire: Rau's Respiratory Care Pharmacology, Elsevier, latest edition.

Mosby's Drug Reference for Health Professions, Mosby, latest edition.

Supplies

Students must have a laptop computer with reliable Internet access and class notes.

Student Performance

End-of-Course Outcomes: Explain the mode of action, clinical indications, dosages, hazards, and side effects of pulmonary and cardiovascular drugs; calculate drug dosages; and select drugs for optimal therapeutic benefits in the practice of respiratory care.

1. Describe the basic principles utilized in pharmacology.
   • Define terms: pharmacology, agonist, antagonist, orphan drug, pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamics, respiratory care pharmacology, receptor
   • Describe the process involved in naming drug.
   • Identify the routes of administration of drugs
   • Explain the pharmacokinetics of inhaled aerosols.
   • Describe and list the process of drug approval in the U.S.
   • Identify necessary information required for a complete medication order in Respiratory Therapy.
   • List or define abbreviations and symbols used in prescription writing.
   • List and explain the therapeutic purpose and grouping of agents commonly used in respiratory care.
2. Identify and describe the central and peripheral nervous systems.
   • Describe the nervous systems.
   • Identify the anatomy of the nervous system.
   • Compare and contrast the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems.
   • Explain the function of neurotransmitters.
   • Identify the efferent and afferent nerve fibers.
   • Define and explain the terminology of the drugs that affect the nervous system.
   • Describe the parasympathetic nervous system in relation to the following: cholinergic neurotransmitter function, muscarinic receptors and effects, nicotinic receptors and effects.
   • Describe the sympathetic nervous system in relation to the following: adrenergic neurotransmitter function and sympathetic receptor types.
3. Describe, classify, and explain sympathomimetic bronchodilators.
   • Identify the mode of action for adrenergic agents
   • discuss and classify the following medications: catecholamines, resorcinol agents, saligenin agents, epinephrine, racemic epinephrine, albuterol, levalbuterol, salmeterol, formoterol, arformoterol, indacaterol, olodaterol.
   • Discuss drug formulations of these medications
   • Identify the routes of administration of these drugs
   • Discuss the possible adverse side effects of these medications.
4. Describe, classify, and explain parasympatholytic bronchodilators.
   • Identify the mode of action for anticholinergic bronchodilators.
   • Discuss the pharmacologic effects of anticholinergic agents.
   • Discuss and classify the following drugs: atropine sulfate, ipratropium bromide, tiotropium bromide.
   • Explain the clinical application of these drugs in relation to COPD.
   • Discuss the pro and con to combination therapy.
5. Describe corticosteroid and mediator antagonist therapy.
   • Describe the physiology of corticosteroids.
   • Describe the mode of action of corticosteroids.
   • Identify the corticosteroids that are available for administration by aerosol.
   • List and describe the side effects, hazards, and precautions of corticosteroids.
   • Discuss the clinical application of corticosteroids in respiratory care.
   • Describe briefly the allergic asthmatic response.
   • Identify the various reparations of corticosteroids.
   • Describe the application of corticosteroids in general.
6. Identify and describe combination drugs utilized in Respiratory Care.
   • Identify and classify the combination drugs available.
   • Describe and explain the indications for the combination medications.
   • Identify patient populations that would benefit from combination medications.
7. Describe xanthine agents.
   • Discuss the general pharmacologic properties of xanthines.
   • Identify the clinical uses for xanthines.
   • Explain the mode of action for xanthines.
   • Explain the importance of titrating theophylline doses.
   • Identify the proper serum levels for theophylline.
   • Discuss the side effects of xanthines.
   • Discuss the clinical application of xanthines.
8. Describe mucus controlling agents.
   • Discuss the physiology of the mucociliary system.
   • Explain the structure and nature of mucus secretions.
   • Identify the physical properties of mucus.
   • Discuss the following mucus controlling agents: acetylcysteine, dornase, sodium bicarbonate.
   • Discuss the effect of bland aerosols on mucus.
   • Explain the following terminology: mucus, sputum, mucoactive, mucolytic, mucokinetic.
9. Describe nonsteroidal antiasthma agents.
   • Identify the clinical application for nonsteroidal agents.
   • Describe the mode of action for nonsteroidal agents.
   • List and describe adverse effects, indications, and normal doses associated with nonsteroidal agents.
10. Describe, list, and identify sedatives and analgesics.
    • Identify and describe the mode of action for miscellaneous sedatives.
    • Identify and describe the mode of action for miscellaneous analgesics.
    • Identify nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
    • Describe conscious sedation.
    • List and describe narcotic and non-narcotic analgesics.
11. Describe neuromuscular blocking agents.
    • Describe the physiology of the neuromuscular junction.
    • Identify nondepolarizing and depolarizing agents.
    • List the clinical applications of neuromuscular agents.
    • Describe the mode of action of miscellaneous agents.
    • List, describe, and explain the duration of action.
    • Identify the methods in which muscle contraction is abolished.
12. Describe anti-infective agents.
    • List and describe the modes of action of anti-infective agents.
    • Identify miscellaneous anti-infective agents and their uses.
    • Describe the mode of action for anti-viral agents.
    • List and describe specific anti-viral agents.
    • Identify the antibiotics that can be administered by aerosol.
    • Describe clinical applications, adverse effects, and administration of miscellaneous anti-infective agents.
13. Describe anti-microbial agents.
    • List, describe, and explain the following: antibiotics, antimycobacterials, antifungals, antivirals.
    • Identify the mode of action and clinical use of the following: antibiotics, antimycobacterials, antifungals, antivirals.
14. Describe selected agents of pulmonary value.
    • Discuss the indications for 1-proteinase inhibitor.
    • Recognize 1-proteinase inhibitor deficiency in a patient.
    • List the 1-proteinase inhibitors that are available.
    • List the three types of formulations for nicotine replacement.
    • Recognize the advantages and disadvantages of nicotine replacement.
    • Discuss medications given to treat pulmonary hypertension.
    • Discuss the indications for nitric oxide.
    • Describe the effects of inhaled nitric oxide.
15. Describe cold and cough agents.
    • Differentiate between the common cold and the flu.
    • Differentiate between the specific types of colds and cough agents.
    • Discuss the mode of action for each specific cold and cough agent.
16. Describe diuretic agents.
    • Identify the anatomy of the kidney.
    • Discuss the function of the nephron.
    • Describe the mode of action of miscellaneous agents.
17. Describe surfactant agents.
    • Identify the physical principles of surfactant agents.
    • Discuss the physical assessment during the administration of surfactant.
    • Discuss mucus wetting agents.
    • Discuss exogenous surfactant and identify the clinical uses.
    • Identify the different types of surfactant.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

1. Please make every effort to be on time and to stay in your seat for the entire class period.  Late arrivals, leaving class and returning are very disrupting to the class and to a proper leaning environment.
2. The student should read assignments prior to class and be prepared to discuss topics covered in class.  Students will be called on to share their understanding of topics.
3. Assigned homework is to be completed before class.  Homework cannot be completed in class unless the instructor gives permission.
4. Exams and quizzes will be started at the beginning of class.  In the case of major exams, students may begin the exam when they arrive, but will have the same deadline as everyone else in the class.
5. CELL PHONES AND SMART WATCHES MUST BE TURNED OFF OR BE IN VIBRATE MODE AT ALL TIMES DURING CLASS. CELL PHONES MUST BE PLACED IN A CELL PHONE POCKET (located at front of classroom) AND EARBUDS MUST BE PUT AWAY INSIDE A PURSE OR  A BACKPACK. If a cell phone rings during a major exam, a 10% score deduction will be implemented when the exam is graded.
6. Other behavior deemed as being disruptive or disrespectful by the instructor may lead to the student(s) being asked to leave the classroom.  If this happens, the student(s) will not be allowed to return until after a counseling session with the Program Director.
7. Cheating on exams will result in a grade of 0 for the exam and will severely jeopardize successful completion of this course (see AC RC Student Handbook).

Grievance Procedure: If a student is having a problem with course policies or the instructor, he or she should first try and resolve any such problems through the instructor.  If the problem is not resolved, the student may proceed to the Respiratory Care Program Director (Becky Byrd), and then to the Dean of Health Professions (Kim Boyd).

Grading Criteria

The final grade for this course is based on the following:

1. Four (4) major exams
2. Two (2) quizzes and/or activities
3. Eight (8) written assignments
   • This list of course work is subject to change in an effort to facilitate student learning of the course material.

Weekly written assignments are to be submitted through Blackboard by the due date. Any written assignment not completed on time will be scored as zero without exception.  Assignments are allowed two attempts at submission for purposes of student submission error ONLY.  No assignment will be regraded for a higher grade.

Testing Procedures

Exams must be taken on the assigned days and will be administered using Respondus Lockdown Browser to ensure exam integrity.

Calculators may be used for exams.

Make-up policy

The opportunity to make-up missed tests will be decided on an individual basis by the instructor.  The exam must be taken within 1 week and the maximum grade that can be earned is 75%.  Makeup exams may be different from the exam given on the scheduled day.  There will be no make-up offered for the final exam.

NO LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED.

The number of points earned by a student will be divided by the maximum possible points for the course. The result will be expressed as a percent and converted to a final letter grade. The grading scale for this course is:

A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 74.5-79

F = less than 74.5

There will be no extra credit offered in this course.

Students must score a 74.5% exam average in order to pass this course.

Keep in mind that grades are not given.  Grades are EARNED based on student performance.  Often the instructor plays no role in the grading process other than recording.  Please be careful to note the requirements for earning the grade you desire and act accordingly throughout the semester.

SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY
Every member of the Amarillo College community is expected to maintain the highest standards of academic integrity. All work submitted for credit is expected to be the student’s own work. Amarillo College may initiate disciplinary proceedings against a student or program applicant accused of scholastic dishonesty. While specific examples are listed below, this is not an exhaustive list, and scholastic dishonesty may encompass other conduct, including any misconduct through electronic or computerized means. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, one (1) or more of the following acts:

1. Cheating includes, but is not limited to, intentionally or unintentionally having access to and/or using unauthorized materials identified by the faculty member, including, but not limited to, material generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs and content generators, or electronic, digital media, telecommunication, and/or wearable devices (e.g., laptops, phones, smartwatches, Fitbits, Bluetooth devices, tablets) to complete a quiz, examination, or class assignment; receiving information in an unauthorized manner during a quiz or examination or to complete an assignment; using, buying, selling, soliciting, stealing, or otherwise obtaining course assignments and/or examination questions in advance; using information about exams posted on the internet or in any electronic medium; violating a faculty member’s and/or the Testing Center’s testing policies and procedures; leaving a test site without permission; failing to secure test materials; removing tests or answer sheets from a test site; using someone else’s work for an assignment in whole or in part as if it were one’s own (e.g., turning in a copy of someone else’s work as one’s own work, or incorporating text generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs or content generators as one’s own writing); submitting academic work in whole or in part for more than one (1) assignment, class, or institution without the faculty member’s permission (i.e., recycling an assignment or self-plagiarism); using annotated texts or teacher’s editions; making false statements or omissions related to applications for enrollment, credit or classwork, research, or the award of a degree; falsifying academic records or documents; and attempting to fulfill the requirements of a course through any other dishonest means.
    
2. Collusion includes, but is not limited to, intentionally or unintentionally aiding or attempting to aid another in an act of scholastic dishonesty; failing to secure academic work; providing an inappropriate level of assistance; collaborating with or communicating answers to a classmate about an examination or course assignment without the faculty member’s permission; and allowing a classmate to copy answers.
    
3. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, intentionally or unintentionally failing to quote and cite words, information, and/or ideas taken from a source(s) in accordance with a citation style approved by the faculty member and/or inadequately paraphrasing.

Attendance

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement of this course.

Calendar

Additional Information

Tutoring Policy:

To meet course requirements, students who do not achieve the minimum passing score of 74.5% on any Section Exam are required to:

• Meet with the course instructor to receive a prescription for tutoring at the West Campus Tutoring Center.
• Attend a prescribed tutoring session with a Tutor at the West Campus Tutoring Center prior to the course’s next exam.
• Return the completed prescription, verified by the tutor’s signature, to the ordering faculty member.

Required tutoring will be prescribed each time a student does not achieve the minimum passing score of 74.5% on an Exam.

Students who do not complete the required tutoring will not be allowed to take the course’s next exam.

Students who do not complete the required tutoring and are not allowed to take the next exam will earn a grade of zero for that exam.

The last day to withdraw from this course is April 17, 2025.