RESPIRATORY THERAPY, A.A.S.
Respiratory Therapy
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Wheeling Campus
Seeking Accreditation according to CoARC Policy 11
This program has been designed to prepare graduates to be eligible for application to the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) for the Respiratory Therapy Examination (RTE) to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT). The graduate is also qualified for employment upon passing their board exam with the appropriate state License.
Respiratory Therapy professionals are vital members of the health care team who specialize in the assessment and treatment of patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. Using in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and advanced medical equipment. The responsibilities of the respiratory therapist include the administration of medical gases and pulmonary drug aerosols; pre and post-operative prophylactic pulmonary therapy; airway care and maintenance; diagnostic testing; cardiopulmonary rehabilitation; and providing and managing total ventilatory support. The responsibilities of individuals employed in respiratory therapy are extremely varied and may differ from one institution to another within the same city.
Hands on learning is a key part of the program. Students build their skills in our on-campus lab before gaining clinical experience in local and regional clinical affiliates. There, under the guidance of experienced clinical instructors, students work directly with patients in the real world, from the emergency department to the intensive care units.
West Virginia Northern Community College is currently in the process of seeking CoARC accreditation for the Respiratory Therapy program. However, WVNCC can provide no assurance that accreditation will be granted by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Therapy (CoARC).
This program has a special application and selection process. Requirements and Allied Health Application, along with other links below:
