Monday, Nov. 11
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8:00 a.m.–8:45 a.m. | La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom | Adult Acute Care
46th Donald F Egan Scientific Memorial Lecture
Asynchrony — Detection, Clusters and, Outcomes
Lluís Blanch MD PhD, Sabadell Barcelona
Show description
Describe the impact of asynchrony on important clinical outcomes. List the most common types of asynchrony, asynchrony detection, and mitigation. Describe the automated detection of asynchrony and how technology can facilitate patient care.
8:50 a.m.–9:20 a.m. | La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom | General
Flag Folding Ceremony
Joseph Buhain EdD RRT FAARC/Presiding
Harry Roman MA RRT FAARC/Presiding
Wadie Williams MA RRT/Presiding
Show description
An AARC tradition like no other, attend the AARC Flag Folding Ceremony and celebrate the rich tradition of the US Military and Armed Forces. RT veterans and active duty respiratory therapists conduct a moving ceremony as we recognize those who serve, those who have served, and those we have lost.
8:35 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | General
Student Symposium for New Professionals
8:35 a.m.–9:10 a.m. | 383–385
Getting That Dream Job
Cheryl Hoerr MBA RRT FAARC, Rolla MO
Show description
This presentation will provide an explanation of the value of marketing and how you can use key marketing principles to position yourself for your dream job. We will also outline techniques to conduct an effective job search, along with a brief overview on how to develop your cover letter and resume. The presenter will discuss common mistakes and pitfalls of job seekers, including those that may cost you the position before you are hired.
9:15 a.m.–9:45 a.m. | 383–385
What It Means to Be a Professional
Dana Evans MHA RRT RRT-NPS, Chicago IL
Show description
This presentation will focus on preparing the respiratory care student to transition into professional life as a respiratory therapist. The presenter will discuss demonstrating professionalism in student environments (clinical rotations, professional meetings, etc.), applying and interviewing for a job, and maintaining professionalism after graduation.
9:50 a.m.–10:25 a.m. | 383–385
Messages from Your AARC President
Karen Schell DHSc RRT RRT-NPS RPFT, Frankfort KS
Show description
The President of the AARC will meet with students to answer questions and discuss the importance of the role students play in advancing the profession.
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | 383–385
Acquiring Your Credential: Success on the Therapist Multiple Choice Examination
Bill Galvin MSEd RRT FAARC, Havertown PA
Show description
The presentation will address the factors that make for success in the examination process. It will cover preparatory issues and what you will experience onsite as well as test-taking strategies and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on the new Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination (TMC).
11:10 a.m.–11:45 p.m. | 383–385
Acquiring Your Credential: Success on the Clinical Simulation Examination
Bill Galvin MSEd RRT FAARC, Havertown PA
Show description
This presentation will serve as a sequel to the previous one and will address the factors that make for success on the Clinical Simulation Examination. It will cover such issues as exam content structure and unique strategies for progressing through a branching logic type of exam. It will also highlight recent changes in policy.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | 383–385
Finding Your “Why”
Joseph Ariale Jr RRT, Summerville SC
Mandy De Vries BHS RRT, Charleston SC
Show description
Finding your “Why” or your passion will give you the motivation to get involved and stay involved leading to a very fulfilled and positive respiratory career. Come in and join us for a little motivation and a story of two very different respiratory therapists finding their “Why” through their respiratory educational and career journeys.
9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. | 260–262 | General
Open Forum — Editors’ Choice
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present research results on bread-and-butter issues in respiratory care. Audience and authors review the posters during the first part of the session. A brief oral presentation (no slides) and audience questions and discussion allow presenters to expand on the work featured on the posters.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
9:55 a.m.–10:25 a.m. | 286–287 | General
Diagnostics Section Meeting
Katrina Hynes MHA RRT RPFT/Presiding
Show description
Section members meet to determine their needs and priorities, as well as how to use AARC resources to accomplish them. All Congress attendees, including section non-members, are invited to attend and participate.
10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. | Exhibit Hall | General
Open Forum — Posters Only #2
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present the results of their work in this Posters Only session.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
10:30 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | Neonatal/Pediatric
Neonatal Noninvasive Ventilation
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | Theater A
Practical Bedside Management of Neonates on Noninvasive Ventilation
Kimberly Firestone MSc RRT, Canton OH
Show description
This lecture will review the management strategies and techniques of various interface systems, securement devices, and skin barrier systems, along with extubation techniques for successful noninvasive ventilation. Audience participation to share clinical experiences, pearls, and helpful tips will be encouraged.
11:10 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | Theater A
Bubble CPAP: What Does the Research Say?
Bradley Kuch MHA RRT FAARC, Havertown PA
Show description
Bubble CPAP is an increasingly common noninvasive method of support in the NICU. The presenter will review current research related to this mode of noninvasive support.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | Theater A
NIV-NAVA: Is This a Valid Mode for Our Neonates?
Kerrie Meinert MHA RRT RRT-NPS, Kansas City MO
Show description
Noninvasive support in the NICU is vital to reduce the incidence of lung injury. Many methods of providing this type of support are available to the RT. Noninvasive NAVA is an increasingly used mode of support in the neonatal environment, but what is the impact of this mode? This presentation will review currently available research on this subject.
10:30 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | Pulmonary Function
New and Emerging Bronchoscopic Procedures
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | 286–287
Bronchoscopic Procedures: What's New
Renee Kiourkas MS RRT RPFT, Chicago IL
Show description
This presentation will cover bronchoscopic procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary conditions, with an overview of the newer bronchoscopic techniques such as cryo-techniques, argon plasma coagulation, navigational bronchoscopy, balloon blockers, balloon dilation, and more. The role of the respiratory therapist will be discussed.
11:10 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | 286–287
Oxygen Management and Hypoxia During Bronchoscopic Procedures
Prema Nanavaty MD, Chicago IL
Show description
This talk is an overview in the management of the hypoxic patient for respiratory therapists performing bronchoscopy procedures and will also look at oxygen devices and techniques related to better outcomes from potential complications that can arise during bronchoscopy procedures when a patient becomes hypoxic.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | 286–287
Building a Successful Bronchoscopy Assist Program
Ellen Moran MS RRT RPFT, Evergreen Park IL
Show description
This topic will cover education, competency, and specific requirements that are essential for training clinicians when building a successful Bronchoscopy Assist Program, including meeting new industry standards.
10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | 278–279 | Adult Acute Care
PRO/CON — NIV vs. HFNC for the Prevention of Postextubation Respiratory Failure: NIV Is Superior
Pro: Richard Kallet MSc RRT FAACP, San Francisco CA
Con: Neil R MacIntyre MD FAARC, Durham NC
Show description
Both NIV and HFNC have been evaluated for the prevention of postextubation failure. Which is better? Two experts will debate these two commonly used modalities.
10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | Adult Acute Care
Prone Position in ARDS
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | Theater B
Physiologic Rationale for Prone Positioning
Lluís Blanch MD PhD, Sabadell Barcelona
Show description
Prone position has been shown to improve oxygenation and reduce mortality associated with severe ARDS. This lecture will provide an overview of the changes in gas exchange and lung mechanics associated with the prone position.
11:10 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | Theater B
Positioning and Management of a Patient in the Prone Position
Brady Scott MSc RRT FAARC, Wheaton IL
Show description
Placing a patient in the prone position can be a daunting task. This lecture will review strategies to safely place a patient in the prone position. Subsequent management of these patients will also be presented.
10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | Sleep Medicine
Stimulator Therapy for Sleep Apnea: Can We “Zap” Your Apnea Away?
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | 267–268
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator: An Alternate Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Meena Khan MD, Columbus OH
Show description
This session will educate attendees on the hypoglossal nerve stimulator for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Attendees will learn the mechanism of action, the appropriate candidate to be considered for HNS, data on effectiveness, and potential pitfalls of therapy.
11:10 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | 267–268
Phrenic Nerve Stimulator: An Alternate Therapy for Central Sleep Apnea
Meena Khan MD, Columbus OH
Show description
The attendees will learn about the phrenic nerve stimulator as a treatment for central sleep apnea, including the mechanism of action, data on effectiveness, and appropriate candidate selection for this therapy.
10:30 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | Theater C | Management
Recruiting Talent: A Panel Discussion
Joel Brown BS RRT FAARC, Oxford PA
Jeffrey Davis BS RRT, Los Angeles CA
Dana Evans MHA RRT RRT-NPS, Chicago IL
Cheryl Hoerr MBA RRT FAARC, Rolla MO
Show description
Finding the right person for the right job can be difficult. Hiring managers are faced with attracting and engaging qualified and skilled respiratory therapists in order to find the candidate that fits. In this panel discussion, hiring managers discuss effective hiring practices and what qualities they look for in a candidate.
10:30 a.m.–11:05 a.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
Respiratory Care Pharmacology and Therapeutics: Additions and Deletions in Your Practice
Douglas S. Gardenhire EdD RRT FAARC, Atlanta GA
Show description
RC Pharmacology continues to change. Many respiratory therapists may be unaware of the changes that exist in medications used today. The lecture will discuss additions and deletions of agents used in respiratory care. The presenter will discuss the many agents that are no longer in use and provide an update of newer medications.
11:10 a.m.–11:45 a.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute
Aerosol Delivery via High Flow Nasal Cannula for Adult and Pediatric Patients
Jie Li MSc RRT, Forest park IL
Show description
Aerosol delivery via high flow nasal cannula has gained popularity in recent years. This lecture will review the clinical evidence for this relatively new delivery route and explain the influential factors that impact aerosol deposition.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
Sepsis Diagnosis and Management: Considerations for the Respiratory Therapist
Robert Balk MD, Chicago IL
Show description
Attendees will learn the role of respiratory therapy in the diagnosis and management of sepsis and septic shock. The presenter will specifically address the RT’s role in finding septic patients, providing adequate respiratory/ventilator support, and assessment of adherence to bundles of care.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | Theater B | Adult Acute Care
PRO/CON — High Frequency Percussive Ventilation Is a Reliable Treatment for Refractory Hypoxemia
PRO: Felix Khusid RRT FAARC, Brooklyn NY
CON: Richard Branson MS RRT FAARC, Beaufort SC
Show description
The use of devices for rescue of patients who fail conventional ventilation continues to be a matter of debate. Are all high frequency ventilation devices similar or does the creation of the flow, volume, and pressure waveforms make a substantial difference in physiological response? This presentation will examine the evidence to support or refute the use of Volumetric Diffusive Respiration / High Frequency Percussive Ventilation in the critical care environment.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | 278–279 | Patient Safety
The Essential Role of RTs in Eliminating Preventable In-Hospital Deaths
Stephen Dickson RRT RRT-NPS, Carlsbad CA
Show description
Respiratory rate is the most under-valued and under-appreciated of all vital signs. The assessment of respiratory rate in general care is notoriously inaccurate. As the earliest indicator of deterioration, the importance of accuracy in respiratory assessment is critical. RTs are uniquely positioned to raise awareness and provide education to address this vital need.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | Theater C | Management
Patient Safety: We Can’t Fix It Unless You Tell Us It’s Broken — Using the FDA’s MedWatch Program
Bradley Kuch MHA RRT FAARC, Havertown PA
Show description
Advancing the cause of Patient Safety is every Respiratory Therapist’s responsibility. Practitioners are doomed to make the same mistakes unless adverse events are reported, and pharmaceutical and device manufacturers cannot improve their products unless they are made aware of problems. Through case scenarios, this session will provide attendees with a working knowledge of what constitutes an AE, SAE, a Medication and/or Device error, and how to report events via the FDA MedWatch Program.
11:50 a.m.–12:25 p.m. | 267–268 | Sleep Medicine
Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, and Sleep Apnea: How Do We Treat?
Jessica Schweller MS RRT APRN-CNP, Worthington OH
Show description
Comorbid Alzheimer’s and dementia have been linked to OSA, but how do we treat these patients? With cognition being a deterrent to therapy, what options are available for these patients and what works best? This lecture will address boundaries to therapy and ways to overcome these boundaries in treating OSA in patients with cognitive impairment.
12:30 p.m.–2:25 p.m. | 275–277 | General
Open Forum — Poster Discussions #11
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present research results on bread-and-butter issues in respiratory care. The audience and authors review the posters during the first part of the session. A brief oral presentation (no slides) and audience questions and discussion allow presenters to expand on the work featured on the posters.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
12:30 p.m.–2:25 p.m. | 280–282 | General
Open Forum — Poster Discussions #12
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present research results on bread-and-butter issues in respiratory care. The audience and authors review the posters during the first part of the session. A brief oral presentation (no slides) and audience questions and discussion allow presenters to expand on the work featured on the posters.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. | 267–268 | General
Sleep Section Meeting
Jessica Schweller MS RRT APRN-CNP/Presiding
Show description
Section members meet to determine their needs and priorities, as well as how to use AARC resources to accomplish them. All Congress attendees, including section non-members, are invited to attend and participate.
1:45 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Adult Acute Care
All About Asynchrony
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | Theater B
The Clinical Impact of Patient-Ventilator Asynchrony
Thomas Piraino RRT, Beansville ON
Show description
Asynchrony between the patient and ventilator is common in the intensive care unit. Increasing data demonstrates the impact asynchrony has on important patient outcomes. This lecture will describe the most common forms of asynchrony in the ICU and the impact this has on clinical outcomes.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | Theater B
Can Asynchrony Be Detected Automatically?
L Felipe Damiani MSc PhDc PT, Santiago
Show description
The largest issue with asynchrony is that it doesn’t always occur when a clinician is at the bedside to see it. This lecture will discuss software that automatically detects various forms of asynchrony and the importance of this technology in everyday practice.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Theater B
Is Extracorporeal Life Support the Ultimate Solution for Patient-Ventilator Asynchrony?
Keith Lamb RRT FAARC FCCM, Warenton VA
Show description
Patient-ventilator asynchrony is often a result of increased drive due to chemoreceptors sensitive to values of carbon dioxide, pH, and oxygen. Can ECLS be used to prevent asynchrony, or completely eliminate the need for mechanical ventilation? This lecture will discuss the role of ECLS in the management of patient-ventilator asynchrony.
1:45 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Clinical Practice
Position for Long-Term Nicotine Cessation Success
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | 260–262
Tobacco Cessation Counseling
Susan Rinaldo Gallo MEd CTTS FAACP, Raleigh NC
Show description
Tobacco cessation interventions alone may not help the tobacco user quit. Many studies have identified that purposeful counseling by a qualified clinician — such as a respiratory therapist — can make a significant difference in the success of the quit attempt. This session will discuss the components of tobacco cessation counseling and how the respiratory therapist can dramatically and positively impact the quit attempt.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | 260–262
Nicotine Cessation Through the Lens of Addiction
Gabrielle Davis MPH RRT CHES, Boise ID
Show description
Respiratory therapists frequently witness the dangers of nicotine addiction through caring for people with cigarette-smoking related diseases. RTs can draw upon those stories and experiences to shape future patient education interactions. With electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) gaining popularity, the conversation must shift from tobacco to nicotine cessation, centering addiction over the interface.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | 260–262
Brief Interventions for RTs to Treat Tobacco Use
Michelle Earl
Show description
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable mortality in the United States and its health consequences are seen every day in respiratory care. In this session we will review tobacco products and their effects on health; describe how respiratory therapists can successfully address tobacco use through the example of Altru Health; and summarize strategies and recommendations for developing, implementing, and maintaining a Tobacco Treatment Program in a clinical setting.
1:45 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Patient Safety
Safety Everywhere You Go
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | 278–289
It Could Happen Anywhere: Active Shooter Preparedness in the Health Care Setting
Jennifer Watts RRT RRT-NPS C-NPT, Romeoville IL
Show description
The hospital setting has historically appeared to be a safe haven. Over the past months, it has been shown that fear and uncertainty may arise out of nowhere as the result of an active shooter. This presentation will share with the learner how to identify the signs of a potentially volatile situation.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | 278–279
Campus Safety: Preparing a Safety Plan for Students and Faculty
Douglas S. Gardenhire EdD RRT FAARC, Atlanta GA
Show description
Campus safety continues to be an issue in the US. This lecture will discuss faculty and administrative components related to department and classroom safety. The presenter will discuss developing safety goals for the department and classroom, developing emergency response plans, and the implementation of the plans.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | 278–279
Identifying Unsafe Situations in the Patient’s Home
Kimberly Wiles BS RRT FAARC, Kittanning PA
Show description
Unsafe situations can occur in many different locations. One location we don’t always consider is in the patient’s home. This presentation will identify various unsafe conditions and how they can be prevented or solved!
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | Theater A | Neonatal/Pediatric
Pediatric ARDS: Outcomes Are Improving, but How and Why?
Ira Cheifetz MD FAARC, Durham NC
Show description
Survival for pediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome has steadily improved over time, but why and how? The answer to this seemingly simple question is complex as there have been no definitive studies that correlate an intervention with improved outcome. This presentation will review the available data and discuss potential explanations for this positive outcome trend. Considerations for the future will be explored.
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | 267–268 | Sleep Medicine
Managing Sleep Apnea for Commercial Drivers
Kevin Dator BS RRT RPSGT, Moreno Valley CA
Show description
This will be an updated discussion in managing commercial drivers who have been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This discussion will include the use of oral appliance therapy with compliance monitoring.
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | 286–287 | Pulmonary Function
False Negative Tests: When “Normal” PFTs Are Wrong
Jeffrey Haynes RRT RPFT FAARC, Pembroke NH
Show description
A normal PFT is usually relied upon to exclude lung disease, but are PFTs always right? This presentation will show the limitations of PFTs and review specific instances when normal PFTs can hide disease.
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
Mechanical Ventilation Strategies During Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Keith Lamb RRT FAARC FCCM, Warrenton VA
Show description
This presentation will discuss the criteria for ECMO cannulation and the mechanical ventilation management strategies during ECMO.
1:45 p.m.–2:20 p.m. | Theater C | Management
The High Cost of Team Member “Violence” and Collateral Damage
Kevin McQueen MPA RRT RRT-ACCS, Colorado Springs CO
Show description
High-functioning teams are grounded in mutual respect, personal accountability, and trust. How is a team disrupted when one member elevates self over team success? Join the presenter as he provides clear ways to identify “disrupters” and explains the high cost to team reputation these individuals cause. Solutions for moving your team from disruptive collateral damage to productivity will be presented.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | Theater C | Management
What Millennials Really Want from Their Manager
Joel Brown BS RRT FAARC, Oxford PA
Show description
By the year 2025, more than 75% of our workforce will be millennials. On the other hand, today’s managers have difficulty figuring out how to keep them engaged and prepare them to become the leaders of the future. This lecture will provide insight on these challenges from the perspective of a millennial on the ladder to leadership and an established respiratory care director.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
Ventilatory Management of the Morbidly Obese Patient
John Davies MA RRT FAARC, Cary NC
Show description
Ventilatory management of the morbidly obese patient poses significant challenges for the respiratory therapist. In most instances, higher than normal ventilatory pressures are required to achieve the desired tidal volume. However, these pressures may, in fact, be safe and acceptable. This lecture will examine the challenges of ventilating the morbidly obese patient and discuss evidence-based strategies to effectively ventilate this type of patient.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | 286–287 | Pulmonary Function
ATS/ERS Spirometry Guidelines: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Omissions
Jeffrey Haynes RRT RPFT FAARC, Pembroke NH
Show description
Spirometry guidelines have great influence on clinical testing, but are they perfect? This presentation will review the strengths, weaknesses, and omissions of the ATS/ERS spirometry guidelines.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | 267–268 | Sleep Medicine
Utilizing RTs as Complex Case Managers in Sleep
Rose Huston RRT, Orange CA
Show description
This lecture will discuss case management of respiratory failure and hypoventilation patients within the Sleep Center. The presenter will also discuss pathophysiology and phenotypes that would require noninvasive ventilation (APAP with O2, BIPAP, AVAPS) such as COPD with OSA, neuromuscular disease, OHS, and respiratory failure patients. This lecture will discuss therapy options as determined through PSG, long term management, and modem data through case studies.
2:25 p.m.–3:00 p.m. | Theater A | Neonatal/Pediatric
Tidal Volume Selection in Pediatric Patients
Christopher Newth MD, Los Angeles CA
Show description
Tidal volume selection can have a large impact on the development of lung injury. While adult tidal volume selection is often made based upon predicted body weight, measured body weight is commonly used in children. The presenter will discuss the current knowledge related to tidal volume selection in pediatric patients.
3:05 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | Neonatal/Pediatric
Pediatric Pulmonary Function Testing
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | 286–287
Lung Clearance Index Across the Ages
Paolo Pianosi MD FRCPc, Rochester MN
Show description
Lung clearance index or multiple-breath washout (MBW) offers insight into pediatric lung function, specifically in obstructive disease, that may not be available through spirometry or resistance measurements. Technical and test methodology considerations in this population will be discussed.
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | 286–287
Lung Clearance Index Test for Cystic Fibrosis
Paolo Pianosi MD FRCPc, Rochester MN
Show description
Lung clearance index or multiple-breath washout (MBW) has become an important lung function test in the assessment of cystic fibrosis and clinical research when combined with spirometry. The assessment of CF, application to the severity of the disease, relationship to therapeutic interventions, and safety evaluation in new therapies will be discussed.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | 286–287
An Update on Pediatric Pulmonary Function Standards: What’s New?
Susan Blonshine RRT RPFT FAARC, Mason MI
Show description
Multiple new standards from the ATS and ERS have been published that concentrate on test methods in the pediatric population. Each of these will be discussed and their impact on PF Lab practice.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
Traumatic Brain Injury: Respiratory Care Considerations
Edna Lee Warnecke MSc RRT RRT-ACCS, Kensington CA
Show description
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) causes significant morbidity and mortality. Secondary insults such as hypoxia and hypotension are known to result in worse physical and cognitive outcomes. Additionally, the speaker will argue that hyperventilation with its reduction in cerebral blood flow is similar. The latest TBI guidelines as they relate to hypoxia, hypotension, and hyperventilation will be discussed as participants learn appropriate therapy to limit morbidity and mortality of patients with TBI.
3:05 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | Sleep Medicine
Sleep Disorders Among the Inpatient Population
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | 267–268
Sleep Disordered Breathing Management in the Bariatric Population
Jessica Schweller MS RRT APRN-CNP, Worthington OH
Show description
This lecture will focus on the many aspects of treatment when managing sleep disordered breathing in the bariatric population. This lecture will address the challenges faced with diagnosis and treatment of the obese patient, when to change to bilevel, and when to suspect obesity hypoventilation syndrome. The talk will also address the modalities of treatment that should be avoided in this population and when and how surgery can impact their treatment plan.
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | 267–268
Sleep Apnea and the Hospital Patient
Jessica Schweller MS RRT APRN-CNP, Worthington OH
Show description
This lecture will address the prevalence of sleep disordered breathing among patients admitted to the hospital and how to screen and diagnose them at discharge. It will also discuss treatment of patients already diagnosed with sleep apnea and how to manage home PAP units while in the hospital. This lecture is intended for RTs in the inpatient setting.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Theater C | Management
Short Staffed? Add Value!
Greg Morgan MBA RRT CPFT, North Branch MN
Show description
If your department is struggling to have enough staff, practical suggestions to increase the value of the services offered will be presented. “Value” can be appreciated through efficiency, patient care, patient education, and follow up. The presenter will share unique ideas of what you might employ to gain “buy in” from staff and senior leadership.
3:05 p.m.–3:40 p.m. | Theater A | Neonatal/Pediatric
Airway Management: Lessons Learned from a Global Perspective
Natalie Napolitano MPH RRT FAARC, Philadelphia PA
Show description
Utilizing knowledge gained from the NEAR4kids database, the presenter will detail lessons learned from an international data pool detailing intubation events and associated sequelae.
3:10 p.m.–5:05 p.m. | 275–277 | General
Open Forum — Poster Discussions #13
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present research results on bread-and-butter issues in respiratory care. The audience and authors review the posters during the first part of the session. A brief oral presentation (no slides) and audience questions and discussion allow presenters to expand on the work featured on the posters.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
3:10 p.m.–5:05 p.m. | 280–282 | General
Open Forum — Poster Discussions #14
Show description
Researchers and clinicians present research results on bread-and-butter issues in respiratory care. The audience and authors review the posters during the first part of the session. A brief oral presentation (no slides) and audience questions and discussion allow presenters to expand on the work featured on the posters.
Supported by an unrestricted educational grant from
3:45 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | General
American Heart Association Guidelines Update
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | 278–279
Advanced Cardiac Life Support: An AHA Update
Brian Walsh PhD RRT RRT-NPS, Lynchburg VA
Show description
The science related to Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) changes often. For this reason, the American Heart Association provides regular updates to the guidelines. This presentation will review recent guideline updates and discuss the proposed 2020 updates.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | 278–279
Pediatric Advanced Life Support: An AHA Update
Robert Sutton MD MSCE, Garnet Valley PA
Show description
The science related to Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) changes often. For this reason, the American Heart Association provides regular updates to the guidelines. This presentation will review recent guideline updates and discuss the proposed 2020 updates.
3:45 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | 272–273 | Adult Acute Care
PRO/CON — NIV vs. HFNC for Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure NIV Is Superior
PRO: Robert Kacmarek PhD RRT FAARC, Boston MA
CON: Dean Hess PhD RRT FAARC, Danvers MA
Show description
A patient presenting with hypoxemic respiratory failure requiring oxygen therapy, and perhaps positive pressure support, represents a challenge for the care team. Before intubation and its attendant consequences, both HFNC and NIV can be used to stabilize the patient and prevent intubation. Can HFNC provide sufficient pressure to recruit alveoli? Does NIV have consequences for comfort and cardiovascular function? Clearly NIV is superior.
3:45 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | Management
Providing Inclusive Health Care
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | Theater C
Diversity and Inclusion: How to Do It Right!
Gabrielle Davis MPH RRT CHES, Boise ID
Show description
Diversity and inclusion are the latest buzzwords used in academia and health care to depict safe and welcoming environments. They are found throughout mission and vision statements, course syllabi, websites, and student handbooks all over the country. These terms are often used interchangeably, though their meanings are quite different. This presentation will highlight the true meaning of diversity and inclusion and how they are equally important in the academic and health care settings.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | Theater C
Providing a Safe(r) Space for LGBTQ+ Patients, Students, and Staff
Samantha Davis MS RRT CHSE, Boise ID
Show description
When navigating an institution as a part of a marginalized group, safe(r) spaces allow individuals to participate, work, learn, receive care, and grow more effectively. Within the LGBTQ+ community, the scarcity of these spaces may create additional barriers for patients, students, or professionals to thrive. This session will discuss strategies for providing safe(r) spaces to individuals in the classroom and clinical settings.
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | Theater A | Neonatal/Pediatric
Optimizing Mechanical Ventilation: Human Thought or Computer Algorithm?
Ira Cheifetz MD FAARC, Durham NC
Show description
Can mechanical ventilation be best optimized by reliance on computer algorithms, individual human thought, or a combination of both? While computer algorithms can standardize care and employ the most updated data, human thought allows individualization to specific patient conditions and includes the intangible concept of the “art of medicine.” This presentation will review the available data and provoke thought and discussion on this increasingly important and controversial topic.
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | 260–262 | Clinical Practice
Electronic Vaping Devices: Educating Our Patients and Community
Mary Martinasek PhD RRT AE-C, Tampa FL
Show description
This talk will focus on understanding current literature on vaping devices for both those individuals trying to quit smoking and youth and young adults who are nicotine naive.
3:45 p.m.–4:20 p.m. | Theater B | Adult Acute Care
What Should I Know About Esophageal Pressure Monitoring for Mechanical Ventilation?
Eduardo Mireles-Cabodevila MD, Cleveland Hts OH
Show description
Esophageal manometry has been shown to be useful for more than 50 years of research. This talk will describe the why, when, and how of monitoring esophageal pressure and using transpulmonary pressure to optimize ventilator settings.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | Theater A | Neonatal/Pediatric
Cardiorespiratory Interactions: The Heart-Lung Connection
Kimberly Jackson MD, Durham NC
Show description
The heart and lungs are both anatomically and physiologically connected. Mechanical ventilation can both help and harm cardiac output. This presentation will explore the physiological relationship between the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems with a focus on strategies to manage mechanical ventilation to optimize cardiac function.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | Theater B | Adult Acute Care
Fighting the Battle Against Hemoptysis
Prema Nanavaty MD, Chicago IL
Show description
This lecture will describe the various causes, available treatments, and the role the respiratory therapist plays in the treatment of patients with hemoptysis.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | 267–268 | Sleep Safety
RTs Revolutionizing CPAP Adherence: How Technology Is Improving Outcomes
Heidel Trinidad MBA RRT AE-C, Fontana CA
Felonda Parker BHS RRT RRT-SDS, Fontana CA
Show description
Population health management, real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and artificial intelligence: these “buzz words” describe not only future health care trends but current tools being used to transform sleep medicine. Dependence on technology in daily life drives consumer electronics to become the perfect resource in the integration of health care. We will discuss interactive communication between the CPAP user, consumer electronics, and the clinician.
4:25 p.m.–5:00 p.m. | 260–262 | Patient Safety
Mechanical Ventilation Alarm Safety
Brady Scott MSc RRT FAARC, Wheaton IL
Show description
Alarm fatigue continues to be a national patient safety concern and not all mechanical ventilation alarms provide actionable information. This presentation will discuss issues with mechanical ventilation alarm settings and potential negative consequences, including alarm fatigue.
5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m. | La Nouvelle Orleans Ballroom | General