What is the respiratory therapy program?
The respiratory therapist, also known as a respiratory care practitioner or RCP, is a specialist in the field of cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) care.
The respiratory therapist applies scientific knowledge and theory to practical clinical problems of respiratory care, and is qualified to assume primary responsibility for respiratory care treatment. Therapists may be called upon to exercise considerable independent clinical judgment in the respiratory care of patients, under a physician’s direct or indirect supervision.
The therapist initiates and conducts therapeutic procedures, maintains patient records and communicates relevant information to the other members of health care team. They also are involved in education and prevention including asthma education and smoking cessation programs.
What will I learn through the respiratory therapy certificate program?
The respiratory therapy (RT) program is offered as a conjoint program with Ohlone College in Fremont. Students complete general education courses at DVC, laboratory and clinical courses at Ohlone College, and have supervised clinical practice at local hospitals. Certain RT classroom courses are offered at the DVC San Ramon Valley Campus; students should refer to the college schedule.
This program prepares students to be respiratory therapists in one of the fastest-growing allied health professions in the nation. Therapists are involved in the diagnosis, treatment, management and care of patients with deficiencies and abnormalities associated with the cardiorespiratory system, in both hospital and home environments. Completion of this CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program) makes graduates eligible for the California state license examination for respiratory care practitioner (RCP) and the registered respiratory therapist (RRT) credentialing examination of the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
By completing the general education coursework at DVC and the RT coursework at Ohlone, students will receive a certificate of completion and A.S. degree from Ohlone College. Students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average or better. For applications and information, contact the Career Development Office located in the Student Services Building.
