2019 Breathe-Zy Community Education Program Outcomes

Abstract

Background: A Utah RT created and implemented a community education program in 1995. Objectives were to raise lung health awareness and disease prevention among school-aged students. Key program elements include chest anatomy and physiology, basic gas exchange, asthma pathophysiology, interactive exercises and porcine heart and lung dissection. A full course requires 2.5-3 h of class time. When legislators failed to pass e-cigarette regulation during the 2014 open legislative session stating it was an education issue, we took the challenge to educate Utah’s youth regarding the impact of any form of inhalant on lung health. Strong lobbying since has resulted in e-tobacco legislation enforcement in 2018. Program materials and supplies were purchased for ≈$1500. The initial kit includes: an inflatable porcine lung model with normal and diseased lungs, scalpels, gloves, sanitizing wipes, educational posters and teaching aids, plastic storage bins, colored t-shirts, rope and batting. Porcine lungs were donated from a local butcher. An RT student from the university is annually assigned to lead the project, and student volunteers attend a Super User Training session. Lead duties include: communicating with schools, scheduling courses, coordinating volunteers and providing oversight at all sessions. Six courses were taught at 2 schools between Oct. 2018-Jan. 2019 to 6th graders. A total of 176 elementary students completed the course. Methods: Pre- and post-exams were given to all participants. Results: Exam outcomes are reported in Table One. Conclusions: Through the Breathe-zy program, we have appreciated an increased: 1) student awareness of the impact of tobacco on lung and overall health, 2) awareness of RT as a profession, 3) RT value as key members of the healthcare and community partners, and 4) RT student engagement in the profession and AARC/USRC initiatives. The program is an opportunity for RT students to be mentored as leaders as they are responsible to schedule courses, coordinate volunteers, input and assist with data analysis and outcomes reporting for abstract submission for publication. It is our impression that promotion of our profession will require strong community partnerships. The number of RTs in Utah is relatively small when compared with many other states. When RTs unite with clearly defined objectives to offer a high-quality product, we can make a difference. We offer all information for starting a program to any RT departments or college programs free of charge.