Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should:
1. Understand the theoretical principles behind cardiorespiratory physiotherapy, based on knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
2. Understand the pathology of common obstructive and restrictive respiratory disorders.
3. Interpret basic investigations including X-rays, ABGs and pulmonary function tests
4. Demonstrate competency in physiotherapy assessments relevant to the cardiorespiratory patient including being able to perform a comprehensive subjective and objective assessment, gather all appropriate background information, be able to analyse and critically evaluate the information collected and select, justify and appropriately implement appropriate tests/assessments based upon this information.
5. Design an effective treatment plan based on assessment findings and determined problem lists and goals, risk analysis that is in line with the best available evidence.
6. Demonstrate safe and effective physiotherapy treatments for the cardiorespiratory patient treatment including exercise and mobilisation; ACBT, adjunct airway clearance techniques; positioning and non-invasive ventilation.
7. Understand and interpret relevant outcome measures for the cardiorespiratory patient, e.g., 6MWT and Chester Step Test
8. Understand safety considerations and the role of exercise and appropriate prescription in the prevention and management of chronic cardiorespiratory disease including pulmonary
rehabilitation and hypertensive patients.
9. Recognise the role of the multidisciplinary team in the collaborative care of the cardiorespiratory patient and be aware of appropriate referral to relevant
members in acute and community care settings.
Indicative Module Content:
Topics covered include:
• Anatomy of the mediastinum, heart, lungs, pleural cavity and diaphragm
• Applied cardiorespiratory physiology
• Common obstructive and restrictive respiratory pathologies including COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, asthma, asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis and thoracic surgeries
• Interpretation of relevant investigations of the cardiovascular, respiratory, haematological and renal systems including chest X-Rays; ABGs; bloods work including platelets and urinary output
• Safe and effective physiotherapy assessment of the respiratory patient, including observation, auscultation, chest expansion, vital signs, SpO2, oxygen therapy and interpretation of the National Early Warning Score system
• Safe and effective respiratory physiotherapy treatment techniques for the self- ventilating patient including exercise and mobilisation, ACBT, adjuncts, positioning and non-invasive ventilation. All techniques are based on international evidence-based best practice guidelines
• Safety in exercise testing and prescription for individuals with cardiorespiratory disease – pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise for hypertensive patients