Are you passionate about making a tangible difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a challenging and rewarding healthcare environment? If so, the American River College Respiratory Care Program could be your perfect pathway to a fulfilling and in-demand career as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
This comprehensive Associate of Science (A.S.) degree program is meticulously designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel as a licensed Respiratory Care Practitioner in California. Focusing on the critical aspects of diagnostic procedures, treatment protocols, and patient management, the program emphasizes conditions affecting the cardiopulmonary system. From mastering physical assessments to administering advanced medical gas therapies and managing mechanical life support systems, you will gain expertise in a wide spectrum of respiratory care techniques. The curriculum further delves into essential areas such as airway management, pharmacology, specialized neonatal and pediatric therapy, and advanced cardiopulmonary procedures.
The American River College program stands out for its commitment to producing highly competent and compassionate respiratory therapists. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC) – program number 200194 – the program adheres to rigorous standards of education, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern healthcare landscape. CoARC accreditation signifies a commitment to quality and outcomes-based education, assuring prospective students and employers alike of the program’s excellence.
Why Choose American River College for Respiratory Care?
Choosing the right respiratory care program is a crucial step in your healthcare career journey. Here’s why the American River College program is a top choice:
- Accredited Excellence: The program’s CoARC accreditation guarantees a high standard of education and ensures that graduates are eligible for licensure and recognized for their competence nationwide.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The two-year curriculum provides a deep dive into all facets of respiratory care, from foundational principles to advanced specialized procedures, preparing you for a wide range of clinical scenarios.
- Hands-on Clinical Experience: Through clinical externships at local hospitals, you’ll gain invaluable real-world experience, working alongside experienced professionals and applying your classroom knowledge in patient care settings.
- Career-Focused Training: The program is specifically designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment as Registered Respiratory Therapists, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and professional development.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced instructors who are experts in the field of respiratory care, providing personalized guidance and mentorship throughout your studies.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access modern labs and equipment that simulate real clinical environments, allowing you to practice and refine your skills in a supportive setting.
- Path to Advanced Practice: The A.S. degree serves as a strong foundation for further specialization and career advancement in respiratory care and related healthcare fields.
Curriculum Highlights: What You Will Learn
The American River College Respiratory Care Program curriculum is structured to provide a progressive and in-depth understanding of the field. Key areas of study include:
- Foundational Sciences: Build a strong base in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and medical terminology, essential for understanding the complexities of the human respiratory system.
- Cardiopulmonary Pathologies: Gain comprehensive knowledge of common diseases affecting the heart and lungs, including obstructive and restrictive airway diseases, infectious pulmonary diseases, and vascular disorders.
- Respiratory Care Principles: Master the fundamental principles of respiratory care, including patient assessment, medical gas therapy, humidity and aerosol therapy, and chest physiotherapy.
- Mechanical Ventilation and Airway Management: Develop expertise in managing patients requiring mechanical ventilation, including airway protection techniques, ventilator modes, and advanced life support procedures.
- Pharmacology for Respiratory Care: Learn about the medications used in respiratory care, including their actions, dosages, administration routes, and potential adverse effects.
- Neonatal and Pediatric Respiratory Care: Acquire specialized skills in providing respiratory care to infants and children, understanding the unique challenges and considerations in these populations.
- Diagnostic Studies: Become proficient in performing and interpreting various diagnostic tests used in respiratory care, including pulmonary function testing, arterial blood gas analysis, and sleep studies.
- Clinical Externships: Participate in three clinical externships, gaining practical experience in diverse hospital settings and applying your skills under the supervision of experienced respiratory therapists.
- Professional Development: Prepare for your professional career with courses focused on ethics, resume writing, interviewing skills, and national licensing exam preparation.
Degree and Certificate Options
The American River College offers the following options within the Respiratory Care Program:
- Associate of Science (A.S.) in Respiratory Care: This is the primary degree for students seeking licensure as a Respiratory Care Practitioner in California. It requires completion of prerequisite courses, core respiratory care courses, general education requirements, and sufficient electives to reach a total of 60 units.
- Guided Pathways Milestone Certificate for Multilingual Speakers: Pathway to Health Sciences Certificate: This certificate is designed to support English as a Second Language students interested in health sciences, providing a pathway to further studies in respiratory care and other healthcare fields.
Enrollment and Eligibility
To be eligible for enrollment in the American River College Respiratory Care Program, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
- High school graduation or GED/CHSPE equivalent.
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 in prerequisite courses.
- Grade “C” or better in prerequisite courses: AH 311 (Medical Language for Health-Care Providers), BIOL 430 & 431 (Anatomy and Physiology), and BIOL 440 or 442 (Microbiology).
- Current college GPA of 2.0 or better.
- Completion of a Curriculum Planning Summary Sheet with an ARC counselor.
- Submission of a completed pre-enrollment application.
Selection into the program is based on a random computerized selection process from qualified applicants who meet all pre-enrollment requirements and procedures.
Career Outlook for Respiratory Care Practitioners
A career in respiratory care offers excellent job security and growth potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for respiratory therapists is projected to grow faster than average. This strong demand is driven by:
- Aging Population: The increasing number of middle-aged and elderly individuals, who are more susceptible to respiratory conditions such as COPD and pneumonia.
- Advancements in Healthcare: Expanding roles for respiratory therapists in areas like disease management, emergency care, and early detection of pulmonary disorders.
- Diverse Employment Settings: Opportunities exist in hospitals, home healthcare services, physician’s offices, medical equipment supply companies, and more.
Graduates of the American River College Respiratory Care Program are well-prepared to enter this dynamic field and make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients.
Take the First Step Towards Your Respiratory Care Career
The American River College Respiratory Care Program is your launching pad for a rewarding and impactful healthcare career. With its accredited program, comprehensive curriculum, and focus on practical experience, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed as a Respiratory Care Practitioner.
Visit the American River College website today to learn more about the program, application process, and upcoming deadlines. Your journey to a fulfilling healthcare career starts here!
