This fall, new students coming into the Vanier Respiratory and Anesthesia Technology Program were greeted by totally renovated labs with new equipment. Teachers, students and administrators were on hand for the inauguration of the updated spaces on September 4, 2024. The two labs where students learn the various procedures performed by respiratory therapists now offer the atmosphere of a modern medical facility and inspire an immediate professional attitude necessary for the demanding occupation students are learning. Although Vanier is the only English language Cegep in the province that offers Respiratory and Anesthesia Technology, the facilities were long due for an upgrade and an overhaul.
The two large laboratories were painted in calm pale grey tones and outfitted with new cabinetry, a new motion sensitive washbasin for sanitary purposes and new equipment. The new equipment includes: 2 new stretchers, one ICU bed, a Panda radiant warmer neonatal bed; a G5 mechanical ventilator by Hamilton Medical, Bomimed; a Susie High Fidelity Mannequin (patient simulator) by Gaumard; an Airvo by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare; a Pulmonary Function Testing machine by Novus medical; an Oxygen saving device evolution 7L/min by Oxymed; a Unit warming patient Bair hugger model 775 by Cardinal Health; a Vitalograph spirometer Alpha 6000 by McArthur Medical Sales; and a Video laryngoscope McGrath MAC by Medtronic.
"The upgrade of respiratory therapy equipment and the labs represents a crucial investment in the education and professional readiness of our students," says Chester Moran, Coordinator of Respiratory and Anesthesia Technology. "By providing access to state-of-the-art technology and a simulated hospital environment, we enhance their hands-on training experience, ensuring they are well-versed in the latest practices and tools used in the field. This not only fosters their technical skills but also boosts their confidence as they transition into their careers."
"Furthermore, exposure to advanced equipment prepares students to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry, allowing them to provide high-quality patient care from day one. By integrating modern technology into their training, we empower our students to be leaders in respiratory therapy, ready to tackle challenges and contribute positively to patient outcomes. Ultimately, this upgrade supports our commitment to excellence in education and the future success of our graduates."
The Respiratory program prepares students for one of the most interesting jobs in health care, trains therapists to assist the anesthesiologist during surgery, assess and support patients recovering from an operation, and provide therapy to people with a wide variety of breathing problems. It's essential health care.
According to Kyra Williams a recent graduate now working at the MGH, "There are four areas where respiratory care is needed: in the adult and neonatal/pediatric ICU, code blue (cardio-pulmonary arrest) cases, the OR in the anesthesia department, and the tracheostomy team assessments. In the ICU and wards, respiratory therapists analyze medical reports to understand patients' progress and future direction. We also join the ICU medical rounds with a multidisciplinary team to assess patients and make a plan for their care and recovery."
