Neonatal Physiology and NICU Equipment Safety
NEO 101 delves into the intricate physiological characteristics of neonates, covering essential systems such as respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological development, with a specific focus on thermoregulation. The course emphasizes the unique vulnerabilities of this patient population and how these inform equipment design and operation. Students will learn core safety principles applicable to all NICU equipment, including electrical safety, infection control, alarm management, and user error mitigation. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, case studies, and practical lab sessions, technicians will develop the critical thinking skills necessary to identify and prevent potential hazards, ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and equipment reliability in the NICU environment.
InstructorJacob CalhounCourse outline
Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.
Syllabus
["Week 1: Introduction to Neonatal Care and Technician Responsibilities","Week 2: Fundamental Neonatal Physiology: Respiratory and Cardiovascular Systems","Week 3: Fundamental Neonatal Physiology: Neurological and Renal Systems","Week 4: Lab 1: Basic Equipment Functionality and Calibration Principles","Week 5: Neonatal Thermoregulation: Principles and Challenges","Week 6: Thermoregulation Equipment: Incubators and Warmers - Principles of Operation","Week 7: Thermoregulation Equipment: Incubators and Warmers - Safety Features and Maintenance","Week 8: Lab 2 (Midterm Review Lab): Thermoregulation Equipment Operation & Safety Checks","Week 9: Oxygen Delivery and Respiratory Support Principles for Neonates","Week 10: Respiratory Support Equipment: Ventilators and CPAP Devices - Principles of Operation","Week 11: Lab 3: Respiratory Support Equipment Calibration and Troubleshooting Basics","Week 12: Monitoring Equipment: Physiological Monitors and Pulse Oximeters - Safety and Accuracy","Week 13: General NICU Equipment Safety: Electrical, Infection Control, and Alarm Management","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Comprehensive Equipment Safety Audit and Preventative Maintenance Plan"]