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PMD 101
Term 1
3 credits

Patient Monitoring Fundamentals and Safety

This course provides an essential introduction to the world of patient physiological monitoring, beginning with an overview of common vital signs and the various technologies used to measure them. Students will learn about the fundamental electrical and mechanical principles underpinning monitoring devices, including signal acquisition, processing, and display. Emphasis is placed on understanding the operational workflow, from device setup and patient connection to data interpretation and alarm management. The curriculum covers critical safety protocols, including electrical safety, infection control, and environmental considerations, ensuring technicians can support monitoring systems without compromising patient or staff well-being. Practical application of safety standards, troubleshooting basic operational issues, and performing routine preventative checks on diverse monitoring platforms are integrated throughout, preparing students to confidently contribute to patient care environments.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Introduction to Patient Monitoring Systems: Principles and Applicationslecture
02Understanding Physiological Parameters: Signal Acquisition and Transductionlecture
03System Architecture and Interconnectivity: Components and Data Flowlecture
04Electrical Safety in Patient Monitoring Environmentslab
05Practical Skills: Basic Operation and User Interface Navigation (Lab)lecture
06Preventative Maintenance Fundamentals: Inspection and Calibration Procedures (Lab)lecture
07Troubleshooting Methodology: Logic and Diagnostic Toolslecture
08Midterm Review: Weeks 1-7lab
09Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques: System Diagnostics and Performance Analysis (Assignment)lecture
10Software Management: Updates, Configuration, and Data Integritylecture
11Quality Control and Performance Verification: Standards and Testing (Lab)lab
12Documentation and Compliance: Service Records and Regulatory Requirements (Assignment)lecture
13Advanced System Integration and Networking Conceptslecture
14Capstone Service Project: Comprehensive System Assessment and Troubleshootingassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Introduction to Physiological Monitoring: Scope and Importance","Week 2: Basic Concepts of Vital Signs and their Clinical Significance","Week 3: Principles of Signal Acquisition and Transducer Technology","Week 4: Understanding Display Interfaces and Data Interpretation","Week 5: Electrical Safety in the Patient Environment","Week 6: Infection Control Protocols for Monitoring Equipment","Week 7: Safe Operation and Device Configuration Best Practices","Week 8: Alarm Management and Alert System Fundamentals","Week 9: Environmental Considerations for Monitoring Equipment Deployment","Week 10: Introduction to Preventative Maintenance for Monitoring Systems","Week 11: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques for Common Monitoring Issues","Week 12: Documentation Standards for Equipment Maintenance and Repair","Week 13: Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance in Monitoring","Week 14: Review and Comprehensive Safety Case Studies"]