Complimentary Continental Breakfast

Mechanical Ventilation, Part II

The second part of the mechanical ventilation series starts with an update on advanced ventilator modes and indications for use. The presenter will also integrate ventilator strategies for specific disease processes addressed on the NBRC ACCS exam matrix.

Hemodynamics and Cardiovascular Assessment

This presentation will begin with an overview of the vital components of an advanced cardiovascular assessment. The presenter will then discuss the various components of hemodynamic monitoring, including normal and abnormal values, and relate these to the critically ill patient.

Break

Diagnostics: Imaging

This presentation will focus on the indications and diagnostic uses of various diagnostic imaging tests, including: radiographs, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasonography, and nuclear scans.

Special Procedures and Troubleshooting

This presentation focuses on a variety of procedures classified as "special procedures" by the NBRC and the respiratory therapist's role in performing or assisting in the procedure as well as troubleshooting various situations. These procedures include: arterial line monitoring, mini-bronchial alveolar lavage, chest tube drainage systems, and bronchoscopy.

Complimentary Lunch

Nutritional Assessment

This presentation will address the nutritional needs of the critically ill patient and the components of the nutritional assessment. The presenter will place the assessment in context with the nutritional needs of the critically ill patient.

Ethics, End of Life, and the Team Concept

In addition to the technical knowledge and skills necessary to function as an adult critical care specialist, the respiratory therapist needs to be familiar with ethical and legal issues that might arise in the intensive care unit. This presentation will define palliative care and hospice as well as the "do not attempt resuscitation" and "do not intubate orders". The presenter will discuss the ethical and practical implications of determining brain death and withdrawing life support. Finally, this presentation will look at the multidisciplinary approach to health care and the team concept as it applies to intensive care unit personnel.

Putting It All Together: Case Studies

This presentation will combine a comprehensive review of all materials and specific case scenarios. The audience will be an integral part of the decision-making scenarios as key information is reinforced.