Delaware Respiratory Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice
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Respiratory Care Practitioner License
Ordinary respiratory care practitioner license; statutory examination and equivalent-license alternatives.
Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information
Biennial renewal, including examination options for CE credit
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Continuing education
- 20 contact hours biennially, at least 10 traditional interactive hours and no more than 10 nontraditional self-paced hours; new-licensee proration and §8.5.5 extension rules apply. Retain evidence for three years; submit it if audited.
- Examination credit exception
- The examinations are optional ways to earn CE credits, not additional mandatory renewal examinations. §8.4.2 credits CRT/RRT recredentialing for five hours, maximum five per cycle. §8.4.3 credits advanced specialty examinations for five hours each, maximum five per cycle. Satisfying the CE requirement through other approved activities excuses every examination leaf.
- Mandatory training
- Attest to the mandatory abuse, exploitation, domestic-violence recognition and reporting training required for medical-board renewal.
- Neonatal pediatric specialty exam
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts the NBRC neonatal pediatric specialty examination for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Other approved examinations
- The Council may approve other examinations for CE; this open remainder is an applicant condition.
- Pulmonary function credentialing exams
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts NBRC pulmonary function credentialing examinations for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so they are retained as a condition.
- Renewal
- Renew electronically every two years, pay the renewal fee and attest to completion of required CE. Respiratory care licenses expire November 30 of even-numbered years.
- Sleep disorders specialty certification
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
Initial licensure by equivalent out of state license
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Board verification demand
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 §9.2.1.4 states: 9.2.1.4 NBRC Credential Verification as a certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and/or as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). The Board application instructions for NEW APPLICATIONS state: A credential verification letter sent directly from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) to the Council office. To request verification, follow the instructions on the NBRC website at Credentialed Practitioners . These verification demands are retained as conditions; §1777(a)(2) independently permits equivalent-license licensure in place of §1777(a)(1).
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license
- Possess a current out-of-state license with requirements equal to or exceeding Delaware requirements, with no outstanding or unresolved complaints. This is the alternative to the NBRC qualifying-examination requirement under §1777(a)(1).
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- 24 Del. C. Chapter 17, Subchapter VII, Respiratory Care Practitioners
24 Del. C. §1777(a), alternatives (1)-(2)
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 Respiratory Care Practice Advisory Council
1770 §9.2.1.4
- Respiratory Care Practitioner Licensure
Requirements for New Applications, NBRC verification
Initial licensure by NBRC examination
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Credential choice
- CRT or RRT is accepted. The TMC certification pathway is sufficient for CRT; the RRT alternative involves TMC and CSE. Any previously earned credential and the Board waiver are applicant conditions; no new sitting is inferred solely from an examination leaf.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Late renewal within 60 days, including examination options for CE credit
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Continuing education
- 20 contact hours biennially, at least 10 traditional interactive hours and no more than 10 nontraditional self-paced hours; new-licensee proration and §8.5.5 extension rules apply. Retain evidence for three years; submit it if audited.
- Examination credit exception
- The examinations are optional ways to earn CE credits, not additional mandatory renewal examinations. §8.4.2 credits CRT/RRT recredentialing for five hours, maximum five per cycle. §8.4.3 credits advanced specialty examinations for five hours each, maximum five per cycle. Satisfying the CE requirement through other approved activities excuses every examination leaf.
- Late renewal
- Renew within 60 days after expiration; certify no respiratory-care practice in Delaware while expired; pay the renewal and late fees. All late renewals are audited for CE compliance.
- Mandatory training
- Attest to the mandatory abuse, exploitation, domestic-violence recognition and reporting training required for medical-board renewal.
- Neonatal pediatric specialty exam
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts the NBRC neonatal pediatric specialty examination for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Other approved examinations
- The Council may approve other examinations for CE; this open remainder is an applicant condition.
- Pulmonary function credentialing exams
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts NBRC pulmonary function credentialing examinations for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so they are retained as a condition.
- Renewal
- Renew electronically every two years, pay the renewal fee and attest to completion of required CE. Respiratory care licenses expire November 30 of even-numbered years.
- Sleep disorders specialty certification
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
Military deployment continuation and renewal
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Continuing education
- 20 contact hours biennially, at least 10 traditional interactive hours and no more than 10 nontraditional self-paced hours; new-licensee proration and §8.5.5 extension rules apply. Retain evidence for three years; submit it if audited.
- Deployment
- Qualifying deployed military licensee holding a valid license at deployment; submit the designated request and official deployment verification.
- Examination credit exception
- The examinations are optional ways to earn CE credits, not additional mandatory renewal examinations. §8.4.2 credits CRT/RRT recredentialing for five hours, maximum five per cycle. §8.4.3 credits advanced specialty examinations for five hours each, maximum five per cycle. Satisfying the CE requirement through other approved activities excuses every examination leaf.
- Extension
- For a license requiring CE, expiration protection lasts 270 days after return; renewal documentation and completed CE are due within 180 days after return. Licensure obligations continue.
- Mandatory training
- Attest to the mandatory abuse, exploitation, domestic-violence recognition and reporting training required for medical-board renewal.
- Neonatal pediatric specialty exam
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts the NBRC neonatal pediatric specialty examination for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Other approved examinations
- The Council may approve other examinations for CE; this open remainder is an applicant condition.
- Pulmonary function credentialing exams
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts NBRC pulmonary function credentialing examinations for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so they are retained as a condition.
- Renewal
- Renew electronically every two years, pay the renewal fee and attest to completion of required CE. Respiratory care licenses expire November 30 of even-numbered years.
- Sleep disorders specialty certification
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
Military reinstatement within two years of lapse or expiration
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Continuing education
- If more than one year after termination, show 20 hours of CE within the preceding two years. Named NBRC examination credits remain optional.
- Credential choice
- CRT or RRT is accepted. The TMC certification pathway is sufficient for CRT; the RRT alternative involves TMC and CSE. Any previously earned credential and the Board waiver are applicant conditions; no new sitting is inferred solely from an examination leaf.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Disciplinary limit
- Does not apply to a suspended or revoked license unless it was reinstated before lapse or expiration.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license exception
- As under the current new-license requirements applicable to terminated RCP licenses, §1777(a)(2) equivalent-license eligibility excuses examination leaves; NBRC verification demanded by implementing materials is retained as a condition.
- Examination credit exception
- The examinations are optional ways to earn CE credits, not additional mandatory renewal examinations. §8.4.2 credits CRT/RRT recredentialing for five hours, maximum five per cycle. §8.4.3 credits advanced specialty examinations for five hours each, maximum five per cycle. Satisfying the CE requirement through other approved activities excuses every examination leaf.
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Military reinstatement
- Qualifying person or spouse assigned to a Delaware duty station may apply within two years of lapse or expiration, with official qualifying-status verification, professional reinstatement documentation and applicable fees.
- Neonatal pediatric specialty exam
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts the NBRC neonatal pediatric specialty examination for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Other approved examinations
- The Council may approve other examinations for CE; this open remainder is an applicant condition.
- Pulmonary function credentialing exams
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts NBRC pulmonary function credentialing examinations for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so they are retained as a condition.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Sleep disorders specialty certification
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Reapplication more than one year after termination
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Board verification demand
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 §9.2.1.4 states: 9.2.1.4 NBRC Credential Verification as a certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and/or as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). The Board application instructions for NEW APPLICATIONS state: A credential verification letter sent directly from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) to the Council office. To request verification, follow the instructions on the NBRC website at Credentialed Practitioners . These verification demands are retained as conditions; §1777(a)(2) independently permits equivalent-license licensure in place of §1777(a)(1).
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Continuing education
- Show 20 hours of continuing education within the two years before reapplication under rule 11.3.4. Named NBRC examination credits are optional ways to satisfy CE.
- Credential choice
- CRT or RRT is accepted. The TMC certification pathway is sufficient for CRT; the RRT alternative involves TMC and CSE. Any previously earned credential and the Board waiver are applicant conditions; no new sitting is inferred solely from an examination leaf.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license exception
- Section 1777(a)(2) permits the current equivalent-license alternative, which excuses the qualifying-examination leaves. The Board NBRC verification demand remains an applicant condition.
- Examination credit exception
- The examinations are optional ways to earn CE credits, not additional mandatory renewal examinations. §8.4.2 credits CRT/RRT recredentialing for five hours, maximum five per cycle. §8.4.3 credits advanced specialty examinations for five hours each, maximum five per cycle. Satisfying the CE requirement through other approved activities excuses every examination leaf.
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Mandatory training
- Attest to the mandatory abuse, exploitation, domestic-violence recognition and reporting training required for medical-board renewal.
- Neonatal pediatric specialty exam
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts the NBRC neonatal pediatric specialty examination for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Other approved examinations
- The Council may approve other examinations for CE; this open remainder is an applicant condition.
- Pulmonary function credentialing exams
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts NBRC pulmonary function credentialing examinations for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so they are retained as a condition.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Sleep disorders specialty certification
- Rule 1770 §8.4.3 accepts Sleep Disorders Specialty (SDS) Certification for CE; the frozen nationwide context has no registered version, so it is retained as a condition.
- Termination
- A license terminates if not renewed within 60 days after expiration; reapply under the same conditions as new licensure.
- Time since termination
- More than one year after termination.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Reapplication within one year after termination
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Board verification demand
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 §9.2.1.4 states: 9.2.1.4 NBRC Credential Verification as a certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and/or as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). The Board application instructions for NEW APPLICATIONS state: A credential verification letter sent directly from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) to the Council office. To request verification, follow the instructions on the NBRC website at Credentialed Practitioners . These verification demands are retained as conditions; §1777(a)(2) independently permits equivalent-license licensure in place of §1777(a)(1).
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Credential choice
- CRT or RRT is accepted. The TMC certification pathway is sufficient for CRT; the RRT alternative involves TMC and CSE. Any previously earned credential and the Board waiver are applicant conditions; no new sitting is inferred solely from an examination leaf.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license exception
- Section 1777(a)(2) permits the current equivalent-license alternative, which excuses the qualifying-examination leaves. The Board NBRC verification demand remains an applicant condition.
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Termination
- A license terminates if not renewed within 60 days after expiration; reapply under the same conditions as new licensure.
- Time since termination
- No more than one year after termination.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Return to unrestricted licensure after voluntary treatment
- Public safety
- Continuation of practice and removal of restrictions remain subject to the participating authorities and protection of public health, welfare and safety.
- Treatment program
- Complete the approved Voluntary Treatment Option program and comply with the treatment agreement and restrictions. Under rule 13.9, a professional whose practice was restricted may then apply for unrestricted licensure.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
Temporary Respiratory Care Practitioner Permit
One nonrenewable temporary permit, for no more than 90 days, after submission of a completed licensure application.
Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information
Temporary permit pending equivalent license licensure
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Board verification demand
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 §9.2.1.4 states: 9.2.1.4 NBRC Credential Verification as a certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and/or as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). The Board application instructions for NEW APPLICATIONS state: A credential verification letter sent directly from the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) to the Council office. To request verification, follow the instructions on the NBRC website at Credentialed Practitioners . These verification demands are retained as conditions; §1777(a)(2) independently permits equivalent-license licensure in place of §1777(a)(1).
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Duration
- One permit, maximum 90 days, nonrenewable.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license
- Possess a current out-of-state license with requirements equal to or exceeding Delaware requirements, with no outstanding or unresolved complaints. This is the alternative to the NBRC qualifying-examination requirement under §1777(a)(1).
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- Issuance
- Submit a completed equivalent-license application; Executive Director and Council-member approval.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Official no-examination sources
Effective from 2026-09-22.
- 24 Del. C. Chapter 17, Subchapter VII, Respiratory Care Practitioners
24 Del. C. §1777(d)
- 24 Del. C. Chapter 17, Subchapter VII, Respiratory Care Practitioners
24 Del. C. §1777(a), alternatives (1)-(2)
- 24 DE Admin. Code 1770 Respiratory Care Practice Advisory Council
1770 §9.2.1.4
Temporary permit pending examination pathway licensure
At least one of the following alternatives:
- Application and fee
- Submit a completed DELPROS application and the nonrefundable fee.
- Background check
- Complete Delaware and FBI criminal background checks for Delaware professional licensure; checks for other purposes do not satisfy the requirement.
- Child protection registry
- Submit the completed and signed Child Protection Registry Consent Form.
- Credential choice
- CRT or RRT is accepted. The TMC certification pathway is sufficient for CRT; the RRT alternative involves TMC and CSE. Any previously earned credential and the Board waiver are applicant conditions; no new sitting is inferred solely from an examination leaf.
- Criminal history
- Report convictions and pending charges substantially related to respiratory care; direct official records must be sent to the Board. Criminal-conviction waivers follow §1777(b)(4) and 29 Del. C. §8735(x)(3).
- Disciplinary history
- Section 1777(a)(3) bars specified professional administrative penalties and consent-agreement conditions; after a hearing the Board may waive the administrative-penalty bar.
- Duration
- Not more than 90 days; one permit only; no renewal.
- Education
- Provide a respiratory care diploma copy and education verification from every program attended; military education, training or experience may count if the Board finds substantial equivalence, while other requirements remain applicable.
- Equivalent license exception
- Applicants satisfying §1777(a)(2) may use the equivalent-license alternative instead of the qualifying-examination alternative; the permit is issued on a completed application.
- Impairment
- No current drug or alcohol impairment substantially affecting safe respiratory care practice.
- Issuance
- Completed licensure application; Executive Director issuance with approval of a Council member.
- License verifications
- Obtain verification directly from every jurisdiction in which an RCP license is or has been held.
- Score recency
- Under rule 9.2.1.4.1, applicants not licensed in any jurisdiction within three years of initially passing the NBRC entry-level examination must retake it and provide a current passing score and CRT or RRT verification.
- Waiver
- Under §1777(b), five Council members and Board approval within 30 days may waive subsection (a) requirements on clear and convincing evidence of adequate qualifications, competent practice and public safety.
Clinical Simulation Examination
- Provider
- The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC); administered Monday through Saturday at more than 300 assessment centers through the NBRC testing agency PSI
- Format
- Computer-based clinical simulation examination of patient-management problems with information-gathering and decision-making sections; each section of each problem is classified to a minor content heading of the Detailed Content Outline. Admission requires the CRT and a TMC pass at the high cut score; with the implementation of the Respiratory Therapy Examination the CSE is available only to those who passed the TMC at the high cut score by December 31, 2026, and it ends December 31, 2027
- Exam questions
- 22 problems: 20 scored and 2 pretest
- Time limit
- 4 hours
- Passing score
- Points associated with the candidate’s set of responses are summed across the whole examination into one score compared with a cut score linked to examination committee decisions on whether each positively-scored option is required as a demonstration of minimal competence
- Exam fee
- $200 for both new and repeat applicants
Examination outline
I. PATIENT DATA
- I.A. Evaluate Data in the Patient Record — 1. Patient history, for example, history of present illness (HPI), orders, medication reconciliation, progress notes, DNR status / advance directives, social, family, and medical history; 2. Physical examination relative to the cardiopulmonary system; 3. Lines, drains, and airways, for example, chest tube, vascular lines, artificial airway; 4. Laboratory results, for example, CBC, electrolytes, coagulation studies, sputum culture and sensitivities, cardiac biomarkers; 5. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry) results; 6. Pulmonary function testing results, for example spirometry, lung volumes, DLCO; 7. 6-minute walk test results; 8. Imaging study results, for example, chest radiograph, CT scan, ultrasonography and / or echocardiography, PET scan, ventilation / perfusion scan; 9. Maternal and perinatal / neonatal history, for example, Apgar scores, gestational age, L / S ratio; 10. Sleep study results, for example, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI); 11. Trends in monitoring results: a. fluid balance; b. vital signs; c. intracranial pressure; d. ventilator liberation parameters; e. pulmonary mechanics; f. noninvasive, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; g. cardiac evaluation / monitoring results, for example, ECG, hemodynamic parameters; 12. Determination of a patient's pathophysiological state
- I.B. Perform Clinical Assessment — 1. Interviewing a patient to assess a. level of consciousness and orientation, emotional state, and ability to cooperate; b. level of pain; c. shortness of breath, sputum production, and exercise tolerance; d. smoking history; e. environmental exposures; f. activities of daily living; g. learning needs, for example, literacy, preferred learning style, social / cultural; 2. Performing inspection to assess a. general appearance; b. characteristics of the airway, for example, patency, Mallampati classification, tracheal shift; c. cough, sputum amount and character; d. status of a neonate, for example, Apgar score, gestational age; e. skin integrity, for example, pressure ulcers, stoma site; 3. Palpating to assess a. pulse, rhythm, intensity; b. accessory muscle activity; c. asymmetrical chest movements, tactile fremitus, crepitus, tenderness, tactile rhonchi, and / or tracheal deviation; 4. Performing diagnostic chest percussion; 5. Auscultating to assess a. breath sounds; b. heart sounds and rhythm; c. blood pressure; 6. Reviewing a chest radiograph to assess a. quality of imaging, for example, patient positioning, penetration, lung inflation; b. presence and position of airways, lines, and drains; c. presence of foreign bodies; d. heart size and position; e. presence of, or change in, (i) cardiopulmonary abnormalities, for example, pneumothorax, consolidation, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, pulmonary artery size; (ii) diaphragm, mediastinum, and / or trachea
- I.C. Perform Procedures to Gather Clinical Information — 1. 12-lead ECG; 2. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 3. Peak flow; 4. Mechanics of spontaneous ventilation linked to tidal volume, minute volume, maximal inspiratory pressure, and vital capacity; 5. Blood gas sample collection; 6. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 7. Oxygen titration with exercise; 8. Cardiopulmonary calculations, for example, P(A-a)O2, VD / VT, P/F, OI; 9. Hemodynamic monitoring; 10. Pulmonary compliance and airways resistance; 11. Plateau pressure; 12. Auto-PEEP determination; 13. Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT); 14. Apnea monitoring; 15. Apnea test (brain death determination); 16. Overnight pulse oximetry; 17. CPAP / NPPV titration during sleep; 18. Cuff management, for example, tracheal, laryngeal; 19. Sputum induction; 20. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing; 21. 6-minute walk test; 22. Spirometry outside or inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 23. DLCO inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 24. Lung volumes inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 25. Tests of respiratory muscle strength - MIP and MEP; 26. Therapeutic bronchoscopy
- I.D. Evaluate Procedure Results — 1. 12-lead ECG; 2. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 3. Peak flow; 4. Mechanics of spontaneous ventilation linked to tidal volume, minute volume, maximal inspiratory pressure, and vital capacity; 5. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 6. Oxygen titration with exercise; 7. Cardiopulmonary calculations, for example, P(A-a)O2, VD / VT, P/F, OI; 8. Hemodynamic monitoring; 9. Pulmonary compliance and airways resistance; 10. Plateau pressure; 11. Auto-PEEP; 12. Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT); 13. Apnea monitoring; 14. Apnea test (brain death determination); 15. Overnight pulse oximetry; 16. CPAP / NPPV titration during sleep; 17. Cuff status, for example, laryngeal, tracheal; 18. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing; 19. 6-minute walk test; 20. Spirometry outside or inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 21. DLCO inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 22. Lung volumes inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 23. Tests of respiratory muscle strength - MIP and MEP
- I.E. Recommend Diagnostic Procedures — 1. Testing for tuberculosis; 2. Laboratory tests, for example, CBC, electrolytes, coagulation studies, sputum culture and sensitivities, cardiac biomarkers; 3. Imaging studies; 4. Bronchoscopy a. diagnostic; b. therapeutic; 5. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL); 6. Pulmonary function testing; 7. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 8. Blood gas and/or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 9. ECG; 10. Exhaled gas analysis, for example, CO2, CO, FENO; 11. Hemodynamic monitoring; 12. Sleep studies; 13. Thoracentesis
II. TROUBLESHOOTING AND QUALITY CONTROL OF EQUIPMENT, AND INFECTION CONTROL
- II.A. Assemble /Troubleshoot Devices — 1. Medical gas delivery interfaces, for example, mask, cannula, heated high-flow nasal cannula; 2. Long-term oxygen therapy; 3. Medical gas delivery, metering, and /or clinical analyzing devices, for example, concentrator, liquid system, flowmeter, regulator, gas cylinder, blender, air compressor, gas analyzers; 4. CPAP / NPPV with patient interfaces; 5. Humidifiers; 6. Nebulizers; 7. Metered-dose inhalers, spacers, and valved holding chambers; 8. Dry-powder inhalers (DPI); 9. Resuscitation equipment, for example, self-inflating resuscitator, flow-inflating resuscitator, AED; 10. Mechanical ventilators; 11. Intubation equipment; 12. Artificial airways; 13. Suctioning equipment, for example, regulator, canister, tubing, catheter; 14. Blood analyzers, for example, hemoximetry (CO-oximetry), point-of-care, blood gas; 15. Patient breathing circuits; 16. Hyperinflation devices; 17. Secretion clearance devices; 18. Heliox delivery device; 19. Portable spirometer; 20. Testing equipment in a pulmonary function laboratory; 21. Pleural drainage; 22. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximeter, capnometer, transcutaneous; 23. Bronchoscopes and light sources; 24. Hemodynamic monitoring a. pressure transducers; b. catheters, for example, arterial, pulmonary artery
- II.B. Ensure Infection Prevention — 1. Adhering to infection prevention policies and procedures, for example, Standard Precautions, donning/doffing, isolation; 2. Adhering to disinfection policies and procedures; 3. Proper handling of biohazardous materials
- II.C. Perform Quality Control Procedures — 1. Blood analyzers; 2. Gas analyzers; 3. Pulmonary function equipment for testing a. spirometry results; b. lung volumes; c. diffusing capacity (DLCO); 4. Mechanical ventilators; 5. Noninvasive monitors
III. INITIATION AND MODIFICATION OF INTERVENTIONS
- III.A. Maintain a Patent Airway Including the Care of Artificial Airways — 1. Proper positioning of a patient; 2. Recognition of a difficult airway; 3. Establishing and managing a patient's airway a. nasopharyngeal airway; b. oropharyngeal airway; c. esophagealtracheal tubes / supraglottic airways; d. endotracheal tube; e. tracheostomy tube; f. laryngectomy tube; g. speaking valves; h. devices that assist with intubation, for example, endotracheal tube exchanger, video laryngoscopy; 4. Performing tracheostomy care; 5. Exchanging artificial airways; 6. Maintaining adequate humidification; 7. Initiating protocols to prevent ventilator-associated infections; 8. Performing extubation
- III.B. Perform Airway Clearance and Lung Expansion Techniques — 1. Postural drainage, percussion, or vibration; 2. Suctioning, for example, nasotracheal, oropharyngeal; 3. Mechanical devices, for example, high-frequency chest wall oscillation, vibratory PEP, intrapulmonary percussive ventilation, insufflation / exsufflation device; 4. Assisted cough, for example, huff, abdominal thrust; 5. Hyperinflation therapy; 6. Inspiratory muscle training
- III.C. Support Oxygenation and Ventilation — 1. Initiating and adjusting oxygen therapy; 2. Minimizing hypoxemia, for example, patient positioning, secretion removal; 3. Initiating and adjusting mask or nasal CPAP; 4. Initiating and adjusting mechanical ventilation settings a. continuous mechanical ventilation; b. noninvasive ventilation; c. high-frequency ventilation; d. alarms; 5. Recognizing and correcting patient-ventilator dyssynchrony; 6. Utilizing ventilator graphics; 7. Performing lung recruitment maneuvers; 8. Liberating a patient from mechanical ventilation
- III.D. Administer Medications and Specialty Gases — 1. Aerosolized preparations a. antimicrobials; b. pulmonary vasodilators; c. bronchodilators; d. mucolytics / proteolytics; e. steroids; 2. Endotracheal instillation; 3. Specialty gases, for example, heliox, inhaled NO
- III.E. Ensure Modifications are Made to the Respiratory Care Plan — 1. Treatment termination, for example, life-threatening adverse event; 2. Recommendations a. starting treatment based on patient response; b. treatment of pneumothorax; c. adjustment of fluid balance; d. adjustment of electrolyte therapy; e. insertion or change of artificial airway; f. liberating from mechanical ventilation; g. extubation; h. discontinuing treatment based on patient response; i. consultation from a physician specialist; 3. Recommendations for changes a. patient position; b. oxygen therapy; c. humidification; d. airway clearance; e. hyperinflation; f. mechanical ventilation; 4. Recommendations for pharmacologic interventions a. bronchodilators; b. anti-inflammatory drugs; c. mucolytics and proteolytics; d. aerosolized antibiotics; e. inhaled pulmonary vasodilators; f. cardiovascular; g. antimicrobials; h. sedatives and hypnotics; i. analgesics; j. narcotic antagonists; k. benzodiazepine antagonists; l. neuromuscular blocking agents; m. diuretics; n. surfactants; o. changes to drug, dosage, administration frequency, mode, or concentration
- III.F. Utilize Evidence-Based Practice — 1. Classification of disease severity; 2. Recommendations for changes in a therapeutic plan when indicated; 3. Application of guidelines, for example, ARDSNet, NAEPP, GOLD
- III.G. Provide Respiratory Care Techniques in High-Risk Situations — 1. Emergency a. cardiopulmonary emergencies excluding CPR; b. disaster management; c. medical emergency team (MET) / rapid response team; 2. Interprofessional communication; 3. Patient transport a. land / air between hospitals; b. within a hospital
- III.H. Assist a Physician / Provider in Performing Procedures — 1. Intubation; 2. Bronchoscopy; 3. Specialized bronchoscopy, for example, EBUS, navigational bronchoscopy (ENB); 4. Thoracentesis; 5. Tracheotomy; 6. Chest tube insertion; 7. Insertion of arterial or venous catheters; 8. Moderate (conscious) sedation; 9. Cardioversion; 10. Withdrawal of life support
- III.I. Conduct Patient and Family Education — 1. Safety and infection control; 2. Home care and related equipment; 3. Lifestyle changes, for example, smoking cessation, exercise; 4. Pulmonary rehabilitation; 5. Disease / condition management, for example, asthma, COPD, CF, tracheostomy care, ventilator dependent
Examination sources
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination Detailed Content Outline
CSE Detailed Content Outline, page 1 header
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination Detailed Content Outline
CSE Detailed Content Outline, page 1 classification note
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination Detailed Content Outline
CSE Detailed Content Outline, final page, Test Form Assembly Specifications
- NBRC Content Outlines page
Credentialing Examinations Detailed Content Outlines list, CSE entry
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) / RRT examination page
RRT/CSE page, CSE description
- NBRC Candidate Handbook
After You Finish the Examination, CSE cut score, p. 12
- NBRC Candidate Handbook
After You Finish the Examination, CSE positively-scored options, p. 12
- NBRC news: Examination Changes Coming in 2027 - New Details Added
FAQ: What if I pass the TMC at the high cut score and don’t complete the CSE before December 31, 2026?
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) / RRT examination page
RRT/CSE page FAQ: What are the examination fees?
- NBRC Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) / RRT examination page
RRT/CSE page, availability notice
- NBRC Candidate Handbook
Admission Policy - CSE heading, p. 4
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
- Provider
- The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC); administered Monday through Saturday at more than 300 assessment centers through the NBRC testing agency PSI
- Format
- Computer-based multiple-choice examination; each scored item is linked to a content area and cognitive level (recall, application, analysis); the TMC ends December 31, 2026 and the Respiratory Therapy Examination is used from January 1, 2027
- Exam questions
- 160 multiple-choice items: 140 scored and 20 pretest
- Time limit
- 3 hours
- Passing score
- Raw score (each item worth one point) compared with two cut scores: the low cut score earns the CRT credential; the high cut score earns the CRT credential and eligibility for the Clinical Simulation Examination for candidates eligible to earn the RRT
- Exam fee
- $190 new applicants; $150 repeat applicants
Examination outline
I. PATIENT DATA (50 of 140 scored items; Recall 15, Application 27, Analysis 8) (35.71%)
- I.A. Evaluate Data in the Patient Record (10 of 50 section items; Recall 4, Application 6, Analysis 0) — 1. Patient history, for example, history of present illness (HPI), orders, medication reconciliation, progress notes, DNR status / advance directives, social, family, and medical history; 2. Physical examination relative to the cardiopulmonary system; 3. Lines, drains, and airways, for example, chest tube, vascular lines, artificial airway; 4. Laboratory results, for example, CBC, electrolytes, coagulation studies, sputum culture and sensitivities, cardiac biomarkers; 5. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry) results; 6. Pulmonary function testing results, for example spirometry, lung volumes, DLCO; 7. 6-minute walk test results; 8. Imaging study results, for example, chest radiograph, CT scan, ultrasonography and / or echocardiography, PET scan, ventilation / perfusion scan; 9. Maternal and perinatal / neonatal history, for example, APGAR scores, gestational age, L / S ratio; 10. Sleep study results, for example, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI); 11. Trends in monitoring results: a. fluid balance; b. vital signs; c. intracranial pressure; d. ventilator liberation parameters; e. pulmonary mechanics; f. noninvasive, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; g. cardiac evaluation / monitoring results, for example, ECG, hemodynamic parameters; 12. Determination of a patient's pathophysiological state
- I.B. Perform Clinical Assessment (10 of 50 section items; Recall 3, Application 6, Analysis 1) — 1. Interviewing a patient to assess a. level of consciousness and orientation, emotional state, and ability to cooperate; b. level of pain; c. shortness of breath, sputum production, and exercise tolerance; d. smoking history; e. environmental exposures; f. activities of daily living; g. learning needs, for example, literacy, preferred learning style, social / cultural; 2. Performing inspection to assess a. general appearance; b. characteristics of the airway, for example, patency, Mallampati classification, tracheal shift; c. cough, sputum amount and character; d. status of a neonate, for example, APGAR score, gestational age; e. skin integrity, for example, pressure ulcers, stoma site; 3. Palpating to assess a. pulse, rhythm, intensity; b. accessory muscle activity; c. asymmetrical chest movements, tactile fremitus, crepitus, tenderness, tactile rhonchi, and / or tracheal deviation; 4. Performing diagnostic chest percussion; 5. Auscultating to assess a. breath sounds; b. heart sounds and rhythm; c. blood pressure; 6. Reviewing a chest radiograph to assess a. quality of imaging, for example, patient positioning, penetration, lung inflation; b. presence and position of airways, lines, and drains; c. presence of foreign bodies; d. heart size and position; e. presence of, or change in, (i) cardiopulmonary abnormalities, for example, pneumothorax, consolidation, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, pulmonary artery size; (ii) diaphragm, mediastinum, and / or trachea
- I.C. Perform Procedures to Gather Clinical Information (12 of 50 section items; Recall 4, Application 7, Analysis 1) — 1. 12-lead ECG; 2. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 3. Peak flow; 4. Mechanics of spontaneous ventilation linked to tidal volume, minute volume, maximal inspiratory pressure, and vital capacity; 5. Blood gas sample collection; 6. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 7. Oxygen titration with exercise; 8. Cardiopulmonary calculations, for example, P(A-a)O2, VD / VT, P/F, OI; 9. Hemodynamic monitoring; 10. Pulmonary compliance and airways resistance; 11. Plateau pressure; 12. Auto-PEEP determination; 13. Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT); 14. Apnea monitoring; 15. Apnea test (brain death determination); 16. Overnight pulse oximetry; 17. CPAP / NPPV titration during sleep; 18. Cuff management, for example, tracheal, laryngeal; 19. Sputum induction; 20. Cardiopulmonary stress testing; 21. 6-minute walk test; 22. Spirometry outside or inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 23. DLCO inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 24. Lung volumes inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 25. Tests of respiratory muscle strength - MIP and MEP; 26. Therapeutic bronchoscopy
- I.D. Evaluate Procedure Results (10 of 50 section items; Recall 2, Application 4, Analysis 4) — 1. 12-lead ECG; 2. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 3. Peak flow; 4. Mechanics of spontaneous ventilation linked to tidal volume, minute volume, maximal inspiratory pressure, and vital capacity; 5. Blood gas analysis and / or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 6. Oxygen titration with exercise; 7. Cardiopulmonary calculations, for example, P(A-a)O2, VD / VT, P/F, OI; 8. Hemodynamic monitoring; 9. Pulmonary compliance and airways resistance; 10. Plateau pressure; 11. Auto-PEEP; 12. Spontaneous breathing trial (SBT); 13. Apnea monitoring; 14. Apnea test (brain death determination); 15. Overnight pulse oximetry; 16. CPAP / NPPV titration during sleep; 17. Cuff status, for example, laryngeal, tracheal; 18. Cardiopulmonary stress testing; 19. 6-minute walk test; 20. Spirometry outside or inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 21. DLCO inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 22. Lung volumes inside a pulmonary function laboratory; 23. Tests of respiratory muscle strength - MIP and MEP
- I.E. Recommend Diagnostic Procedures (8 of 50 section items; Recall 2, Application 4, Analysis 2) — 1. Testing for tuberculosis; 2. Laboratory tests, for example, CBC, electrolytes, coagulation studies, sputum culture and sensitivities, cardiac biomarkers; 3. Imaging studies; 4. Bronchoscopy a. diagnostic; b. therapeutic; 5. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL); 6. Pulmonary function testing; 7. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximetry, capnography, transcutaneous; 8. Blood gas and/or hemoximetry (CO-oximetry); 9. ECG; 10. Exhaled gas analysis, for example, CO2, CO, FENO; 11. Hemodynamic monitoring; 12. Sleep studies; 13. Thoracentesis
II. TROUBLESHOOTING AND QUALITY CONTROL OF DEVICES, AND INFECTION CONTROL (20 of 140 scored items; Recall 8, Application 9, Analysis 3) (14.29%)
- II.A. Assemble / Troubleshoot Devices (15 of 20 section items; Recall 4, Application 8, Analysis 3) — 1. Medical gas delivery interfaces, for example, mask, cannula, heated high-flow nasal cannula; 2. Long-term oxygen therapy; 3. Medical gas delivery, metering, and /or clinical analyzing devices, for example, concentrator, liquid system, flowmeter, regulator, gas cylinder, blender, air compressor, gas analyzers; 4. CPAP / NPPV with patient interfaces; 5. Humidifiers; 6. Nebulizers; 7. Metered-dose inhalers, spacers, and valved holding chambers; 8. Dry-powder inhalers (DPI); 9. Resuscitation equipment, for example, self-inflating resuscitator, flow-inflating resuscitator, AED; 10. Mechanical ventilators; 11. Intubation equipment; 12. Artificial airways; 13. Suctioning equipment, for example, regulator, canister, tubing, catheter; 14. Blood analyzers, for example, hemoximetry (CO-oximetry), point-of-care, blood gas; 15. Patient breathing circuits; 16. Hyperinflation devices; 17. Secretion clearance devices; 18. Heliox delivery device; 19. Portable spirometer; 20. Testing equipment in a pulmonary function laboratory; 21. Pleural drainage; 22. Noninvasive monitoring, for example, pulse oximeter, capnometer, transcutaneous; 23. Bronchoscopes and light sources; 24. Hemodynamic monitoring a. pressure transducers; b. catheters, for example, arterial, pulmonary artery
- II.B. Ensure Infection Prevention (2 of 20 section items; Recall 2, Application 0, Analysis 0) — 1. Adhering to infection prevention policies and procedures, for example, Standard Precautions, donning/doffing, isolation; 2. Adhering to disinfection policies and procedures; 3. Proper handling of biohazardous materials
- II.C. Perform Quality Control Procedures (3 of 20 section items; Recall 2, Application 1, Analysis 0) — 1. Blood analyzers; 2. Gas analyzers; 3. Pulmonary function equipment for testing a. spirometry results; b. lung volumes; c. diffusing capacity (DLCO); 4. Mechanical ventilators; 5. Noninvasive monitors
III. INITIATION AND MODIFICATION OF INTERVENTIONS (70 of 140 scored items; Recall 10, Application 30, Analysis 30) (50%)
- III.A. Maintain a Patent Airway Including the Care of Artificial Airways (10 of 70 section items; Recall 3, Application 4, Analysis 3) — 1. Proper positioning of a patient; 2. Recognition of a difficult airway; 3. Establishing and managing a patient's airway a. nasopharyngeal airway; b. oropharyngeal airway; c. esophagealtracheal tubes / supraglottic airways; d. endotracheal tube; e. tracheostomy tube; f. laryngectomy tube; g. speaking valves; h. devices that assist with intubation, for example, endotracheal tube exchanger, video laryngoscopy; 4. Performing tracheostomy care; 5. Exchanging artificial airways; 6. Maintaining adequate humidification; 7. Initiating protocols to prevent ventilator-associated infections; 8. Performing extubation
- III.B. Perform Airway Clearance and Lung Expansion Techniques (5 of 70 section items; Recall 2, Application 2, Analysis 1) — 1. Postural drainage, percussion, or vibration; 2. Suctioning, for example, nasotracheal, oropharyngeal; 3. Mechanical devices, for example, high-frequency chest wall oscillation, vibratory PEP, intrapulmonary percussive ventilation, insufflation / exsufflation; 4. Assisted cough, for example, huff, abdominal thrust; 5. Hyperinflation therapy; 6. Inspiratory muscle training
- III.C. Support Oxygenation and Ventilation (15 of 70 section items; Recall 1, Application 5, Analysis 9) — 1. Initiating and adjusting oxygen therapy; 2. Minimizing hypoxemia, for example, patient positioning, secretion removal; 3. Initiating and adjusting mask or nasal CPAP; 4. Initiating and adjusting mechanical ventilation settings a. continuous mechanical ventilation; b. noninvasive ventilation; c. high-frequency ventilation; d. alarms; 5. Recognizing and correcting patient-ventilator dyssynchrony; 6. Utilizing ventilator graphics; 7. Performing lung recruitment maneuvers; 8. Liberating a patient from mechanical ventilation
- III.D. Administer Medications and Specialty Gases (4 of 70 section items; Recall 1, Application 3, Analysis 0) — 1. Aerosolized preparations a. antimicrobials; b. pulmonary vasodilators; c. bronchodilators; d. mucolytics / proteolytics; e. steroids; 2. Endotracheal instillation; 3. Specialty gases, for example, heliox, inhaled NO
- III.E. Ensure Modifications are Made to the Respiratory Care Plan (18 of 70 section items; Recall 1, Application 7, Analysis 10) — 1. Treatment termination, for example, life-threatening adverse event; 2. Recommendations a. starting treatment based on patient response; b. treatment of pneumothorax; c. adjustment of fluid balance; d. adjustment of electrolyte therapy; e. insertion or change of artificial airway; f. liberating from mechanical ventilation; g. extubation; h. discontinuing treatment based on patient response; i. consultation from a physician specialist; 3. Recommendations for changes a. patient position; b. oxygen therapy; c. humidification; d. airway clearance; e. hyperinflation; f. mechanical ventilation; 4. Recommendations for pharmacologic interventions a. bronchodilators; b. anti-inflammatory drugs; c. mucolytics and proteolytics; d. aerosolized antibiotics; e. inhaled pulmonary vasodilators; f. cardiovascular; g. antimicrobials; h. sedatives and hypnotics; i. analgesics; j. narcotic antagonists; k. benzodiazepine antagonists; l. neuromuscular blocking agents; m. diuretics; n. surfactants; o. changes to drug, dosage, administration frequency, mode, or concentration
- III.F. Utilize Evidence-Based Practice (6 of 70 section items; Recall 0, Application 2, Analysis 4) — 1. Classification of disease severity; 2. Recommendations for changes in a therapeutic plan when indicated; 3. Application of guidelines, for example, ARDSNet, NAEPP, GOLD
- III.G. Provide Respiratory Care in High-Risk Situations (5 of 70 section items; Recall 0, Application 2, Analysis 3) — 1. Emergency a. cardiopulmonary emergencies, excluding CPR; b. disaster management; c. medical emergency team (MET) / rapid response team; 2. Interprofessional communication; 3. Patient transport a. land / air between hospitals; b. within a hospital
- III.H. Assist a Physician / Provider in Performing Procedures (4 of 70 section items; Recall 1, Application 3, Analysis 0) — 1. Intubation; 2. Bronchoscopy; 3. Specialized bronchoscopy, for example, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), navigational bronchoscopy (ENB); 4. Thoracentesis; 5. Tracheotomy; 6. Chest tube insertion; 7. Insertion of arterial or venous catheters; 8. Moderate (conscious) sedation; 9. Cardioversion; 10. Withdrawal of life support
- III.I. Conduct Patient and Family Education (3 of 70 section items; Recall 1, Application 2, Analysis 0) — 1. Safety and infection control; 2. Home care and related equipment; 3. Lifestyle changes, for example, smoking cessation, exercise; 4. Pulmonary rehabilitation; 5. Disease / condition management, for example, asthma, COPD, CF, tracheostomy care, ventilator dependent
Examination sources
- NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination Detailed Content Outline
TMC Detailed Content Outline, page 1 header
- NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination Detailed Content Outline
TMC Detailed Content Outline, page 1, domain I allocation row
- NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination Detailed Content Outline
TMC Detailed Content Outline, page 12, totals row and Additional Specifications
- NBRC Content Outlines page
Credentialing Examinations Detailed Content Outlines list, TMC entry
- NBRC Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination Detailed Content Outline
TMC Detailed Content Outline, pp. 1, 6, 8: scored-item totals 50/20/70; lettered topic totals throughout pp. 1–12; section and topic proportions converted from the original fixed counts
- NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) examination page
CRT page, Detailed Content Outline and examination description
- NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) examination page
CRT page FAQ: What do the cut scores mean?
- NBRC Candidate Handbook
After You Finish the Examination, p. 12
- NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) examination page
CRT page FAQ: What are the examination fees?
- NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) examination page
CRT page FAQ: When and where are NBRC examinations administered?
- NBRC Candidate Handbook
Special Accommodations request form, examination list