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Kentucky Respiratory Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

US-KY · License preparation

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Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Privilege

Kentucky remote-state authorization enacted July 15, 2026. Statutory eligibility is recorded subject to implementation: the first commission meeting is in October 2026, followed by rulemaking and data-system development. It is not represented as an operational application on September 22, 2026.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Return to compact privilege after home state encumbrance
Discipline
Have no adverse action against a licence in the previous two years and report nonmember-state adverse action to the commission within thirty days.
Fees
Pay applicable state, commission, and renewal fees. Section 5.B exempts active military members and spouses from commission privilege fees and permits a remote state to reduce or waive its own fee.
Home state
Hold and maintain an active, unencumbered home-state respiratory therapist licence; the home state is the member state of primary domicile. An active military member or spouse may designate and retain a state where they hold a current licence in good standing during active duty under Section 5.A.
Implementation
The compact operational timeline states: "The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact reached activation status in April 2026. The Compact Commission will convene for the first time in October 2026. After the initial meeting, the Commission will continue to promulgate rules and undertake data system development.". As of September 22, 2026, exercise of this enacted pathway remains subject to commission implementation, rulemaking, and the data system; do not treat this route as an available application.
Jurisprudence
Meet any jurisprudence requirements Kentucky establishes under Section 4.A.6. This conditional slot does not identify an examination; it is an applicant condition and supplies no state exam identity.
Nbrc
Hold and maintain an active NBRC credential that qualifies for Kentucky licensure. KRS 314A.110 accepts CRT or RRT; the currently offered registered examination alternatives are retained even when passed before applying.
Notification
Notify the commission of the request for Kentucky compact privilege, provide the domicile address, and report domicile changes within thirty days.
Practice
Practise within Kentucky scope for the type of respiratory therapist licence held; privilege duration follows the home-state licence and remains subject to adverse action.
Restoration
The home-state licence must be unencumbered and two years must elapse from removal of the adverse-action encumbrance; then all Section 4.A requirements must be met.
Service of process
Consent to mail service of process and subpoenas at the domicile address on commission record.
Kentucky remote state compact privilege
Discipline
Have no adverse action against a licence in the previous two years and report nonmember-state adverse action to the commission within thirty days.
Fees
Pay applicable state, commission, and renewal fees. Section 5.B exempts active military members and spouses from commission privilege fees and permits a remote state to reduce or waive its own fee.
Home state
Hold and maintain an active, unencumbered home-state respiratory therapist licence; the home state is the member state of primary domicile. An active military member or spouse may designate and retain a state where they hold a current licence in good standing during active duty under Section 5.A.
Implementation
The compact operational timeline states: "The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact reached activation status in April 2026. The Compact Commission will convene for the first time in October 2026. After the initial meeting, the Commission will continue to promulgate rules and undertake data system development.". As of September 22, 2026, exercise of this enacted pathway remains subject to commission implementation, rulemaking, and the data system; do not treat this route as an available application.
Jurisprudence
Meet any jurisprudence requirements Kentucky establishes under Section 4.A.6. This conditional slot does not identify an examination; it is an applicant condition and supplies no state exam identity.
Nbrc
Hold and maintain an active NBRC credential that qualifies for Kentucky licensure. KRS 314A.110 accepts CRT or RRT; the currently offered registered examination alternatives are retained even when passed before applying.
Notification
Notify the commission of the request for Kentucky compact privilege, provide the domicile address, and report domicile changes within thirty days.
Practice
Practise within Kentucky scope for the type of respiratory therapist licence held; privilege duration follows the home-state licence and remains subject to adverse action.
Service of process
Consent to mail service of process and subpoenas at the domicile address on commission record.
Return after restriction of Kentucky compact privilege
Discipline
Have no adverse action against a licence in the previous two years and report nonmember-state adverse action to the commission within thirty days.
Fees
Pay applicable state, commission, and renewal fees. Section 5.B exempts active military members and spouses from commission privilege fees and permits a remote state to reduce or waive its own fee.
Home state
Hold and maintain an active, unencumbered home-state respiratory therapist licence; the home state is the member state of primary domicile. An active military member or spouse may designate and retain a state where they hold a current licence in good standing during active duty under Section 5.A.
Implementation
The compact operational timeline states: "The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact reached activation status in April 2026. The Compact Commission will convene for the first time in October 2026. After the initial meeting, the Commission will continue to promulgate rules and undertake data system development.". As of September 22, 2026, exercise of this enacted pathway remains subject to commission implementation, rulemaking, and the data system; do not treat this route as an available application.
Jurisprudence
Meet any jurisprudence requirements Kentucky establishes under Section 4.A.6. This conditional slot does not identify an examination; it is an applicant condition and supplies no state exam identity.
Nbrc
Hold and maintain an active NBRC credential that qualifies for Kentucky licensure. KRS 314A.110 accepts CRT or RRT; the currently offered registered examination alternatives are retained even when passed before applying.
Notification
Notify the commission of the request for Kentucky compact privilege, provide the domicile address, and report domicile changes within thirty days.
Practice
Practise within Kentucky scope for the type of respiratory therapist licence held; privilege duration follows the home-state licence and remains subject to adverse action.
Restoration
The individual remains ineligible for Kentucky privilege until the Kentucky limitation or restriction has ended; all Section 4.A conditions still apply.
Service of process
Consent to mail service of process and subpoenas at the domicile address on commission record.
Maintenance and renewal of Kentucky compact privilege
Discipline
Have no adverse action against a licence in the previous two years and report nonmember-state adverse action to the commission within thirty days.
Fees
Pay applicable state, commission, and renewal fees. Section 5.B exempts active military members and spouses from commission privilege fees and permits a remote state to reduce or waive its own fee.
Home state
Hold and maintain an active, unencumbered home-state respiratory therapist licence; the home state is the member state of primary domicile. An active military member or spouse may designate and retain a state where they hold a current licence in good standing during active duty under Section 5.A.
Implementation
The compact operational timeline states: "The Respiratory Care Interstate Compact reached activation status in April 2026. The Compact Commission will convene for the first time in October 2026. After the initial meeting, the Commission will continue to promulgate rules and undertake data system development.". As of September 22, 2026, exercise of this enacted pathway remains subject to commission implementation, rulemaking, and the data system; do not treat this route as an available application.
Jurisprudence
Meet any jurisprudence requirements Kentucky establishes under Section 4.A.6. This conditional slot does not identify an examination; it is an applicant condition and supplies no state exam identity.
Maintenance
Section 4.B requires continued compliance with all Section 4.A conditions, no adverse action, and payment of renewal fees; privilege ends with expiration or revocation of the home-state licence.
Nbrc
Hold and maintain an active NBRC credential that qualifies for Kentucky licensure. KRS 314A.110 accepts CRT or RRT; the currently offered registered examination alternatives are retained even when passed before applying.
Notification
Notify the commission of the request for Kentucky compact privilege, provide the domicile address, and report domicile changes within thirty days.
Practice
Practise within Kentucky scope for the type of respiratory therapist licence held; privilege duration follows the home-state licence and remains subject to adverse action.
Service of process
Consent to mail service of process and subpoenas at the domicile address on commission record.

Mandatory Certification as a Respiratory Care Practitioner

Ordinary respiratory care certification. Active and inactive statuses are retained through their renewal and reactivation routes.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Biennial renewal in active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete at least 24 approved continuing education units in the two-year certification period, including at least one hour relevant to respiratory care ethics. The education period is January 1 through December 31 of the following year.
Education records
Maintain completion documentation for three years after the certification period and supply documentation and the audit verification form if selected.
Nbrc designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Renewal period
Mandatory certificates expire January 30 every two years. Apply during November 1 through January 30 in the applicable renewal cycle.
Status
Hold a mandatory certificate and submit the Application for Renewal with the active renewal fee of $135.
Suspension
A suspended certificate must still be renewed, but renewal does not authorize practice until reinstated. A revoked certificate cannot be renewed.
Waiver
201 KAR 29:060 Section 1 permits an individual medical-disability, illness, or military-duty waiver or extension of up to one calendar year; request it by the renewal deadline with medical verification or deployment orders and reapply if the circumstances continue.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • krs-115

    KRS 314A.115, renewal education requirement

  • krs-220

    KRS 314A.220, subsection (3), renewal and express examination prohibition

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 2(1), renewal application and active/inactive fees

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 2(2), renewal deadline and application periods

  • kar-050

    201 KAR 29:050, Section 2, accrual for biennial renewal

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 1, waiver and extension circumstances

  • krs-220

    KRS 314A.220, subsection (4), suspended and revoked certificates

  • krs-110

    KRS 314A.110, subsection (5)

Reinstatement within five years of expiration
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application fee
Submit the Application for Reinstatement and the $200 nonrefundable reinstatement fee.
Board conditions
The Board may require individualized reinstatement conditions under KRS 314A.110(6).
Disclosures
Provide other licences, pending complaints, conviction and discipline information, impairment and monitoring disclosures, employment history, supporting records, and the reinstatement application attestation.
Education
Provide proof of 24 continuing education units completed within the immediately preceding 24 months, including at least one hour relevant to respiratory care ethics.
Five year boundary
KRS 314A.220(3) uses within five years, while the Board Applications and Forms page states: "This application is for practitioners who have held a license that is designated as Expired and have been expired less than 5 years." The statute controls the five-year boundary.
Status
The mandatory certificate has expired and the reinstatement application is made within five years of expiration. KRS 314A.220(3) prohibits an examination as a condition of renewal within that period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • krs-220

    KRS 314A.220, subsection (3), renewal and express examination prohibition

  • krs-110

    KRS 314A.110, subsection (6), second-page reinstatement provisions

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 3(2), reinstatement application and fee

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(2), return to active status or reinstatement education

  • reinstatement-application

    page 1, items 15-16, fee and education

  • applications

    Reinstatement Application, expired certificate duration

Biennial renewal in inactive status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Continuing education is not required while the certificate remains inactive under 201 KAR 29:050 Section 9 and 201 KAR 29:060 Section 2(1). Return to active practice requires the reactivation process.
Renewal period
Mandatory certificates expire January 30 every two years. Apply during November 1 through January 30 in the applicable renewal cycle.
Status
Hold a mandatory certificate in inactive status and submit the Application for Renewal with the inactive renewal fee of $50.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 2(1), renewal application and active/inactive fees

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 2(2), renewal deadline and application periods

  • kar-050

    201 KAR 29:050, Section 9, inactive and other certificate statuses

Initial certification by NBRC certification or registry
Application
Complete and sign the mandatory application, provide credential and education information, and submit supporting documents by mail, fax, or email; emailed submissions must be PDFs.
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Credential designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Education
KRS 314A.010(3)(a)-(b) defines RRT and CRT practitioners by completion of an accredited respiratory care training program and the respective NBRC examination.
Equivalent credentials
The statutes and application accept an NBRC equivalent. No specific equivalent examination is named; Board acceptance of an equivalent is an applicant condition.
Fee
The mandatory application and certification fee is $150 and nonrefundable.
Nbrc credential
KRS 314A.110(1) requires having held an NBRC RRT or CRT credential, or its equivalent. The Board application requires credential documentation; its current instructions request a current credential for reciprocity.
Mandatory certification after completion of the student program
Application
Complete and sign the mandatory application, provide credential and education information, and submit supporting documents by mail, fax, or email; emailed submissions must be PDFs.
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Credential designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Education
KRS 314A.010(3)(a)-(b) defines RRT and CRT practitioners by completion of an accredited respiratory care training program and the respective NBRC examination.
Equivalent credentials
The statutes and application accept an NBRC equivalent. No specific equivalent examination is named; Board acceptance of an equivalent is an applicant condition.
Fee
The mandatory application and certification fee is $150 and nonrefundable.
Nbrc credential
KRS 314A.110(1) requires having held an NBRC RRT or CRT credential, or its equivalent. The Board application requires credential documentation; its current instructions request a current credential for reciprocity.
Previous certificate
The applicant held a limited student certificate and has completed the accredited program. Apply for mandatory certification when qualified by NBRC credential; otherwise apply for temporary permission. The limited certificate ends at graduation.
New mandatory certification after more than five years of expiration
Application
Complete and sign the mandatory application, provide credential and education information, and submit supporting documents by mail, fax, or email; emailed submissions must be PDFs.
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Credential designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Education
KRS 314A.010(3)(a)-(b) defines RRT and CRT practitioners by completion of an accredited respiratory care training program and the respective NBRC examination.
Equivalent credentials
The statutes and application accept an NBRC equivalent. No specific equivalent examination is named; Board acceptance of an equivalent is an applicant condition.
Fee
The mandatory application and certification fee is $150 and nonrefundable.
Nbrc credential
KRS 314A.110(1) requires having held an NBRC RRT or CRT credential, or its equivalent. The Board application requires credential documentation; its current instructions request a current credential for reciprocity.
Previous certificate
The previous Kentucky mandatory certificate has been expired for more than five years. KRS 314A.220(5) requires a new mandatory certificate under current chapter requirements; the old certificate cannot be renewed, restored, reissued, or reinstated.
Reactivation of an inactive mandatory certificate
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application fee
Submit the Application for Reactivation and the $135 nonrefundable reactivation fee.
Disclosures
The reactivation application requires other licences, pending complaints, convictions since the last application, disciplinary actions, application denials, impairment, monitoring-program participation, and employment history, with supporting records and signed attestation.
Education
Provide proof of 24 continuing education units completed within the immediately preceding 24 months, including at least one hour relevant to respiratory care ethics.
Next renewal
Satisfy normal continuing education requirements for the next renewal period. Reactivation approved during the renewal period satisfies renewal for that period.
Status
The applicant holds an inactive mandatory certificate and requests active status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 3(1), reactivation application and fee

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(2), return to active status or reinstatement education

  • reactivation-application

    page 1, items 15-16, fee and education

Immediate reactivation with deferred continuing education
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application fee
Submit the Application for Reactivation and the $135 nonrefundable reactivation fee.
Disclosures
The reactivation application requires other licences, pending complaints, convictions since the last application, disciplinary actions, application denials, impairment, monitoring-program participation, and employment history, with supporting records and signed attestation.
Education
Under 201 KAR 29:060 Section 2(3), an inactive certificate holder may request immediate active status and complete the required 24 continuing education units, including the ethics hour, within six months after returning to active status.
Next renewal
Satisfy normal continuing education requirements for the next renewal period. Reactivation approved during the renewal period satisfies renewal for that period.
Status
The applicant holds an inactive mandatory certificate and requests active status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • kar-015

    201 KAR 29:015, Section 3(1), reactivation application and fee

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(2), return to active status or reinstatement education

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(3), immediate reactivation with later education

  • reactivation-application

    page 1, items 15-16, fee and education

Initial certification by reciprocity
Application
Complete and sign the mandatory application, provide credential and education information, and submit supporting documents by mail, fax, or email; emailed submissions must be PDFs.
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Credential designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Education
KRS 314A.010(3)(a)-(b) defines RRT and CRT practitioners by completion of an accredited respiratory care training program and the respective NBRC examination.
Equivalent credentials
The statutes and application accept an NBRC equivalent. No specific equivalent examination is named; Board acceptance of an equivalent is an applicant condition.
Fee
The mandatory application and certification fee is $150 and nonrefundable.
Military fee waiver
201 KAR 29:015 Section 2(4) waives the initial application fee for active duty military personnel and their spouses who qualify by reciprocity, hold another-state authorization in good standing, and hold an RRT or CRT credential.
Nbrc credential
KRS 314A.110(1) requires having held an NBRC RRT or CRT credential, or its equivalent. The Board application requires credential documentation; its current instructions request a current credential for reciprocity.
Other jurisdiction
The applicant must be duly authorized and in good standing in another jurisdiction whose licensure or certification requirements are substantially equal to Kentucky requirements. Provide verification of every licence ever held.
Reinstatement after disciplinary revocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board terms
Comply with the Board order and all individualized terms prescribed by the Board. No particular examination is identified by KRS 314A.225(2).
Education
Complete 24 continuing education units within the preceding 24 months, including the ethics hour, before applying for reinstatement from revoked or suspended status.
Fees
If the revoked mandatory certificate has expired, KRS 314A.220(4) requires the specified reinstatement/renewal fee and delinquency fee.
Petition
At least one year after revocation, petition the Board; it investigates and may reinstate upon compliance with its prescribed terms and a finding of competence to practise.
Practice
Do not practise until the disciplinary restriction is lifted and the certificate is valid.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • krs-225

    KRS 314A.225, subsection (2), revocation reinstatement

  • krs-220

    KRS 314A.220, subsection (4), suspended and revoked certificates

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(2), return to active status or reinstatement education

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(5), discipline-related reinstatement education

Return to active status after disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board terms
Comply with the Board order and all individualized terms prescribed by the Board. No particular examination is identified by KRS 314A.225(2).
Education
Complete 24 continuing education units within the preceding 24 months, including the ethics hour, before applying for reinstatement from revoked or suspended status.
Fees
Maintain renewal during suspension under KRS 314A.220(4); renewal alone does not permit practice.
Petition
The Board may reconsider, modify, or reverse suspension or other discipline under KRS 314A.225(3). Comply with the order and obtain Board restoration.
Practice
Do not practise until the disciplinary restriction is lifted and the certificate is valid.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-22.

  • krs-225

    KRS 314A.225, subsection (3), reconsideration of discipline

  • krs-220

    KRS 314A.220, subsection (4), suspended and revoked certificates

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(2), return to active status or reinstatement education

  • kar-060

    201 KAR 29:060, Section 2(5), discipline-related reinstatement education

Mandatory certification after graduate temporary permission
Application
Complete and sign the mandatory application, provide credential and education information, and submit supporting documents by mail, fax, or email; emailed submissions must be PDFs.
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Credential designation
Under KRS 314A.110(5), pre-July 1, 2002 CRT/RRT credential holders retain the designation. Later credential holders retain it while satisfying NBRC continuing competency; otherwise they are designated respiratory care practitioners.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Education
KRS 314A.010(3)(a)-(b) defines RRT and CRT practitioners by completion of an accredited respiratory care training program and the respective NBRC examination.
Equivalent credentials
The statutes and application accept an NBRC equivalent. No specific equivalent examination is named; Board acceptance of an equivalent is an applicant condition.
Fee
The mandatory application and certification fee is $150 and nonrefundable.
Nbrc credential
KRS 314A.110(1) requires having held an NBRC RRT or CRT credential, or its equivalent. The Board application requires credential documentation; its current instructions request a current credential for reciprocity.
Previous certificate
The applicant holds a temporary graduate certificate and has passed the NBRC credentialing examination. The Board states that temporary permission ends at passing and that the applicant must immediately apply for mandatory certification.

Temporary Mandatory Certificate

Graduate permission limited to six months from graduation; the Board ends it when the NBRC credentialing examination is passed. Not renewable.

Licensing authority: Kentucky Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Graduate temporary permission pending NBRC examination
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Duration
Temporary authority lasts no longer than six months from graduation. The Board ends the remaining term when the NBRC credentialing examination is passed and requires immediate application for mandatory certification.
Education
Graduate from an approved respiratory care educational program and provide proof of graduation.
Equivalent
The statutory NBRC-equivalent entry-level examination is unnamed; Board acceptance is an applicant condition.
Examination timing
The NBRC entry-level certification examination is involved after issuance: KRS 314A.110(2) requires passing within six months from graduation to continue practising. The initial temporary application is made while awaiting examination.
Fee
Submit the mandatory/temporary application and the $102 nonrefundable temporary certification fee.
Renewal
Temporary certificates are ineligible for renewal under 201 KAR 29:015 Section 2(3).
Temporary permission after graduation from limited student status
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Duration
Temporary authority lasts no longer than six months from graduation. The Board ends the remaining term when the NBRC credentialing examination is passed and requires immediate application for mandatory certification.
Education
Graduate from an approved respiratory care educational program and provide proof of graduation.
Equivalent
The statutory NBRC-equivalent entry-level examination is unnamed; Board acceptance is an applicant condition.
Examination timing
The NBRC entry-level certification examination is involved after issuance: KRS 314A.110(2) requires passing within six months from graduation to continue practising. The initial temporary application is made while awaiting examination.
Fee
Submit the mandatory/temporary application and the $102 nonrefundable temporary certification fee.
Previous certificate
The applicant was a limited mandatory certificate holder, completed the accredited program, and must apply for temporary permission or mandatory certification under 201 KAR 29:010 Section 2. Limited authority ends at graduation.
Renewal
Temporary certificates are ineligible for renewal under 201 KAR 29:015 Section 2(3).
Restoration of a suspended graduate temporary certificate
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Attestation
The applicant attests that responses are complete and accurate, consents to investigation, agrees to provide requested information, and must report application corrections within thirty days.
Board order
KRS 314A.225(3) authorizes the Board to reconsider, modify, or reverse suspension; comply with the order. Restoration cannot extend the statutory six-month period from graduation.
Continuing education
201 KAR 29:050 Section 9 exempts temporary certificate holders from continuing education. The general return-from-suspension language of 201 KAR 29:060 Section 2(5) states: "Certificate holders who seek to transition from revoked or suspended status shall complete the required continuing education units referenced in subsection 2(a) and (b) of this section prior to applying for reinstatement.". Record this implementing demand as a condition if the Board applies it.
Disclosures
The mandatory application requires disclosure of prior application denials, disciplinary suspension or revocation, pending complaints, felony/misdemeanor/DUI convictions, impairment affecting safe practice, and monitoring-program participation, with explanations and supporting records as requested.
Duration
Temporary authority lasts no longer than six months from graduation. The Board ends the remaining term when the NBRC credentialing examination is passed and requires immediate application for mandatory certification.
Education
Graduate from an approved respiratory care educational program and provide proof of graduation.
Equivalent
The statutory NBRC-equivalent entry-level examination is unnamed; Board acceptance is an applicant condition.
Examination timing
The NBRC entry-level certification examination is involved after issuance: KRS 314A.110(2) requires passing within six months from graduation to continue practising. The initial temporary application is made while awaiting examination.
Fee
Submit the mandatory/temporary application and the $102 nonrefundable temporary certification fee.
Renewal
Temporary certificates are ineligible for renewal under 201 KAR 29:015 Section 2(3).

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

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