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RT program receives newest ventilator technology

The Respiratory Therapy program at Washington State Community College is at the front of the class when it comes to state-of -the-art classroom equipment.

Washington State is the first college in the nation to receive a Hamilton C6 ventilator to use as a training tool for students.

Considered the premier intensive care unit, the Hamilton C6 ventilator has the ability to display an animated airway map, a feature aiding in the diagnosis of lung conditions and problems, explained Respiratory Therapy Program Director Adrienne Hellinger said.

The unit also helps therapists identify problems earlier and educate families on the status of their loved ones, she said.

"The opportunity to train students on new and emerging technology gives them an advantage," Hellinger said. "Many of our clinical affiliates use its predecessor, the Hamilton G5, in local hospitals. This is the updated version of that vent."

Many local clinical affiliates also use Hamilton transport ventilators, a factor in deciding which to purchase, according to Hellinger.

"We want our students to be comfortable with the technology they're seeing in the field, and now they'll actually be ahead of the curve," Hellinger said.

The ventilator was purchased using a portion of the funds from the Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills grant Washington State was awarded last fall.

For more information about the Respiratory Therapy Program. go to wscc.edu/respiratory-therapy or contact Hellinger at 740.885.5690.