OpenExamsFREE PRACTICE — ANY EXAM

Louisiana Respiratory Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

US-LA · License preparation

517 free questions · Answer explanations · No signup required

Choose what to practice

Start with an exam below. Your examination requirements depend on your application pathway. View licensing requirements

Combined practice

Choose an exam or combined practice to begin.

Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Licensed Respiratory Therapist (LRT)

The ordinary Louisiana respiratory therapist license. CRT and RRT identify national credentials, not separate Louisiana licenses. Current LAC 46:XLV.2523 designates NBRC examinations and successors; the Board page describes Louisiana examination credentials in historical license prefixes. Statutory exemptions under R.S. 37:3361 are retained as conditions.

Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners · Application information

Reinstatement of a suspended, revoked or otherwise restricted license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board decision
R.S. 37:3358(B) authorizes the Board to reinstate a suspended, revoked or otherwise restricted license; approval and terms are determined by the Board disciplinary decision or consent order.
Continuing renewal
R.S. 37:3358(D) applies renewal obligations during suspension. The expired-license and prolonged-inactivity routes govern when those triggers also apply.
Individual conditions
Comply with the applicable Board order and qualifications; any fitness inquiry or unnamed additional assessment imposed individually remains an applicant condition.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination and NBRC credentials
Accreditation
Program accredited by CoARC or its predecessor/successor at graduation or completion; revoked, suspended or unaccredited programs are unacceptable under LAC 46:XLV.2510.
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, proof of qualifications, recent photograph, certification of authenticity, criminal-history information, fees and any additional Board-requested evidence; originals unless waived for good cause.
Application documents
Current instructions require oath/affirmation, third-party authorization, statement of legal name and background check. Disclosures require sworn explanations; background-check instructions follow submission of the application.
Character
Good moral character, with no statutory or regulatory ground for denial.
Equivalent credentials
R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(a) also allows equivalent credentials based on examination and training approved by the Board. The unidentified open alternative is a condition; the implementing rule requires current NBRC credentials.
Examination attempt limit
Four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts make the applicant ineligible. Advanced registry completion can restore eligibility, but four unsuccessful attempts at either advanced part bar eligibility under LAC 46:XLV.2536.
Fee
Current initial licensure application fee is $125, nonrefundable and payable by the listed card methods.
Fitness and records
Application authorizes release of relevant records and consent to Board-directed physical or mental fitness examinations where reasonable grounds exist. Those fitness examinations are applicant conditions.
Legal work status
United States citizen or current legal authority to reside and work in the United States.
National credentials
Hold current NBRC CRT or RRT credentials. CRT and RRT are alternatives, not cumulative licenses. For the current registered references, CRT uses TMC; the RRT examination pathway uses TMC and CSE.
Practice exemptions
R.S. 37:3361 exempts practice within another Louisiana license, exclusive federal respiratory-therapy employment, approved-program student clinical training, and confined pulmonary-laboratory or physician-office work under immediate physician supervision. These exemptions do not create separate Board-issued credentials.
Respiratory education
Graduate of an accredited respiratory care education program; LAC 46:XLV.2507 and .2510 also describe successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(3) controls its graduation requirement.
Score release
Meet the NBRC passing standard and authorize NBRC to release scores to the Board on every attempt.
Secondary education
High-school graduate or equivalent diploma.
Verification
Request NBRC credential verification directly to the Board, except the current instructions exclude recent Louisiana graduates from that request. Verify every state license directly with the issuing board.
Initial Louisiana licensure after prolonged lapse of out of state licensure or practice
Accreditation
Program accredited by CoARC or its predecessor/successor at graduation or completion; revoked, suspended or unaccredited programs are unacceptable under LAC 46:XLV.2510.
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, proof of qualifications, recent photograph, certification of authenticity, criminal-history information, fees and any additional Board-requested evidence; originals unless waived for good cause.
Application documents
Current instructions require oath/affirmation, third-party authorization, statement of legal name and background check. Disclosures require sworn explanations; background-check instructions follow submission of the application.
Character
Good moral character, with no statutory or regulatory ground for denial.
Equivalent credentials
R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(a) also allows equivalent credentials based on examination and training approved by the Board. The unidentified open alternative is a condition; the implementing rule requires current NBRC credentials.
Examination attempt limit
Four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts make the applicant ineligible. Advanced registry completion can restore eligibility, but four unsuccessful attempts at either advanced part bar eligibility under LAC 46:XLV.2536.
Fee
Current initial licensure application fee is $125, nonrefundable and payable by the listed card methods.
Fitness and records
Application authorizes release of relevant records and consent to Board-directed physical or mental fitness examinations where reasonable grounds exist. Those fitness examinations are applicant conditions.
Legal work status
United States citizen or current legal authority to reside and work in the United States.
National credentials
Hold current NBRC CRT or RRT credentials. CRT and RRT are alternatives, not cumulative licenses. For the current registered references, CRT uses TMC; the RRT examination pathway uses TMC and CSE.
Practice exemptions
R.S. 37:3361 exempts practice within another Louisiana license, exclusive federal respiratory-therapy employment, approved-program student clinical training, and confined pulmonary-laboratory or physician-office work under immediate physician supervision. These exemptions do not create separate Board-issued credentials.
Prior licensure
Previously licensed in another state, but no such license or respiratory-therapy practice for more than four years immediately before the application.
Recent recredentialing
LAC 46:XLV.2507(B) requires successful NBRC entry-level recredentialing within that four-year period. The time limit is a condition of the TMC reference.
Respiratory education
Graduate of an accredited respiratory care education program; LAC 46:XLV.2507 and .2510 also describe successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(3) controls its graduation requirement.
Score release
Meet the NBRC passing standard and authorize NBRC to release scores to the Board on every attempt.
Secondary education
High-school graduate or equivalent diploma.
Verification
Request NBRC credential verification directly to the Board, except the current instructions exclude recent Louisiana graduates from that request. Verify every state license directly with the issuing board.
Initial licensure with credit for comparable military education, training or experience
Accreditation
Program accredited by CoARC or its predecessor/successor at graduation or completion; revoked, suspended or unaccredited programs are unacceptable under LAC 46:XLV.2510.
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, proof of qualifications, recent photograph, certification of authenticity, criminal-history information, fees and any additional Board-requested evidence; originals unless waived for good cause.
Application documents
Current instructions require oath/affirmation, third-party authorization, statement of legal name and background check. Disclosures require sworn explanations; background-check instructions follow submission of the application.
Character
Good moral character, with no statutory or regulatory ground for denial.
Equivalent credentials
R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(a) also allows equivalent credentials based on examination and training approved by the Board. The unidentified open alternative is a condition; the implementing rule requires current NBRC credentials.
Examination attempt limit
Four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts make the applicant ineligible. Advanced registry completion can restore eligibility, but four unsuccessful attempts at either advanced part bar eligibility under LAC 46:XLV.2536.
Fee
Current initial licensure application fee is $125, nonrefundable and payable by the listed card methods.
Fitness and records
Application authorizes release of relevant records and consent to Board-directed physical or mental fitness examinations where reasonable grounds exist. Those fitness examinations are applicant conditions.
Legal work status
United States citizen or current legal authority to reside and work in the United States.
Military exclusions
R.S. 37:3651(P)-(Q) exclusions apply, including dishonorable discharge and nationwide licensing/registry-system licensure or registration.
Military training credit
Under R.S. 37:3651(D), education, training or experience requirements are wholly or partly satisfied by comparable United States armed-forces, National Guard or reserve education, training or experience, as determined by the Board. This subsection does not waive the identified examinations.
National credentials
Hold current NBRC CRT or RRT credentials. CRT and RRT are alternatives, not cumulative licenses. For the current registered references, CRT uses TMC; the RRT examination pathway uses TMC and CSE.
Practice exemptions
R.S. 37:3361 exempts practice within another Louisiana license, exclusive federal respiratory-therapy employment, approved-program student clinical training, and confined pulmonary-laboratory or physician-office work under immediate physician supervision. These exemptions do not create separate Board-issued credentials.
Respiratory education
Graduate of an accredited respiratory care education program; LAC 46:XLV.2507 and .2510 also describe successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(3) controls its graduation requirement.
Score release
Meet the NBRC passing standard and authorize NBRC to release scores to the Board on every attempt.
Secondary education
High-school graduate or equivalent diploma.
Verification
Request NBRC credential verification directly to the Board, except the current instructions exclude recent Louisiana graduates from that request. Verify every state license directly with the issuing board.
Initial licensure after restoring eligibility through advanced registry completion
Accreditation
Program accredited by CoARC or its predecessor/successor at graduation or completion; revoked, suspended or unaccredited programs are unacceptable under LAC 46:XLV.2510.
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, proof of qualifications, recent photograph, certification of authenticity, criminal-history information, fees and any additional Board-requested evidence; originals unless waived for good cause.
Application documents
Current instructions require oath/affirmation, third-party authorization, statement of legal name and background check. Disclosures require sworn explanations; background-check instructions follow submission of the application.
Character
Good moral character, with no statutory or regulatory ground for denial.
Entry level failures
Applicant became ineligible after four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts.
Equivalent credentials
R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(a) also allows equivalent credentials based on examination and training approved by the Board. The unidentified open alternative is a condition; the implementing rule requires current NBRC credentials.
Examination attempt limit
Four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts make the applicant ineligible. Advanced registry completion can restore eligibility, but four unsuccessful attempts at either advanced part bar eligibility under LAC 46:XLV.2536.
Fee
Current initial licensure application fee is $125, nonrefundable and payable by the listed card methods.
Fitness and records
Application authorizes release of relevant records and consent to Board-directed physical or mental fitness examinations where reasonable grounds exist. Those fitness examinations are applicant conditions.
Legal work status
United States citizen or current legal authority to reside and work in the United States.
National credentials
Hold current NBRC CRT or RRT credentials. CRT and RRT are alternatives, not cumulative licenses. For the current registered references, CRT uses TMC; the RRT examination pathway uses TMC and CSE.
Practice exemptions
R.S. 37:3361 exempts practice within another Louisiana license, exclusive federal respiratory-therapy employment, approved-program student clinical training, and confined pulmonary-laboratory or physician-office work under immediate physician supervision. These exemptions do not create separate Board-issued credentials.
Respiratory education
Graduate of an accredited respiratory care education program; LAC 46:XLV.2507 and .2510 also describe successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(3) controls its graduation requirement.
Restored eligibility
LAC 46:XLV.2536(B) restores eligibility only by successful advanced registry completion; four failures of either part remain disqualifying. The registered current examination pair is TMC plus CSE.
Score release
Meet the NBRC passing standard and authorize NBRC to release scores to the Board on every attempt.
Secondary education
High-school graduate or equivalent diploma.
Verification
Request NBRC credential verification directly to the Board, except the current instructions exclude recent Louisiana graduates from that request. Verify every state license directly with the issuing board.
Licensure by reciprocity
Accreditation
Program accredited by CoARC or its predecessor/successor at graduation or completion; revoked, suspended or unaccredited programs are unacceptable under LAC 46:XLV.2510.
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the Board application, proof of qualifications, recent photograph, certification of authenticity, criminal-history information, fees and any additional Board-requested evidence; originals unless waived for good cause.
Application documents
Current instructions require oath/affirmation, third-party authorization, statement of legal name and background check. Disclosures require sworn explanations; background-check instructions follow submission of the application.
Character
Good moral character, with no statutory or regulatory ground for denial.
Equivalent credentials
R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(a) also allows equivalent credentials based on examination and training approved by the Board. The unidentified open alternative is a condition; the implementing rule requires current NBRC credentials.
Examination attempt limit
Four unsuccessful NBRC entry-level attempts make the applicant ineligible. Advanced registry completion can restore eligibility, but four unsuccessful attempts at either advanced part bar eligibility under LAC 46:XLV.2536.
Fee
Current initial licensure application fee is $125, nonrefundable and payable by the listed card methods.
Fitness and records
Application authorizes release of relevant records and consent to Board-directed physical or mental fitness examinations where reasonable grounds exist. Those fitness examinations are applicant conditions.
Legal work status
United States citizen or current legal authority to reside and work in the United States.
National credentials
Hold current NBRC CRT or RRT credentials. CRT and RRT are alternatives, not cumulative licenses. For the current registered references, CRT uses TMC; the RRT examination pathway uses TMC and CSE.
Out of state license
Current unrestricted license from another state, the District of Columbia or a United States territory, with requirements the Board considers equivalent or exceeding Louisiana requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(4)(b) also requires other Chapter and Board requirements; LAC 46:XLV.2511 expressly applies all .2507 qualifications, application and examination restrictions.
Practice exemptions
R.S. 37:3361 exempts practice within another Louisiana license, exclusive federal respiratory-therapy employment, approved-program student clinical training, and confined pulmonary-laboratory or physician-office work under immediate physician supervision. These exemptions do not create separate Board-issued credentials.
Respiratory education
Graduate of an accredited respiratory care education program; LAC 46:XLV.2507 and .2510 also describe successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements. R.S. 37:3354(B)(3) controls its graduation requirement.
Score release
Meet the NBRC passing standard and authorize NBRC to release scores to the Board on every attempt.
Secondary education
High-school graduate or equivalent diploma.
Verification
Request NBRC credential verification directly to the Board, except the current instructions exclude recent Louisiana graduates from that request. Verify every state license directly with the issuing board.
Reinstatement of an expired license without the prolonged inactivity trigger
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application channel
Board Renewals instructions direct applicants expired longer than one year to reinstatement or relicensure after contacting licensing; less than one year uses online renewal with a late fee. At exactly one year, obtain the Board-selected application.
Continuing education
LAC 46:XLV.2545(B)(3) requires ten approved hours per lapsed year, capped at thirty hours, except its subsection C examination-recredentialing exception.
Documents
Board reinstatement application, statistical affidavit, recent photograph, Board-requested qualification evidence, applicable renewal and reinstatement fees and penalties.
Expired license
Previously issued Louisiana license has expired without renewal and applicant remains otherwise eligible.
Penalty
Under .2545(B)(5), penalty equals the renewal fee when applying less than two years after expiration and twice that fee when applying more than two years after expiration.
Short inactivity
This route does not meet the more-than-four-year absence of licensure or practice in any state that triggers .2545(C) recredentialing.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement following continuing education noncompliance
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application channel
Board Renewals instructions direct applicants expired longer than one year to reinstatement or relicensure after contacting licensing; less than one year uses online renewal with a late fee. At exactly one year, obtain the Board-selected application.
Ce noncompliance
License expired through nonrenewal, or was suspended/revoked for CE noncompliance. Apply under .2545 and pay the reinstatement fee.
Continuing education
LAC 46:XLV.2565(B) demands ten qualifying contact hours for every calendar year since lapse, expiration, suspension or revocation. Its uncapped wording is retained alongside .2545(B)(3), which caps ordinary lapsed-license evidence at thirty hours.
Documents
Board reinstatement application, statistical affidavit, recent photograph, Board-requested qualification evidence, applicable renewal and reinstatement fees and penalties.
Expired license
Previously issued Louisiana license has expired without renewal and applicant remains otherwise eligible.
Long inactivity
This route excludes the .2545(C) prolonged-inactivity trigger; that examination pathway is separately retained.
Penalty
Under .2545(B)(5), penalty equals the renewal fee when applying less than two years after expiration and twice that fee when applying more than two years after expiration.
Short inactivity
This route does not meet the more-than-four-year absence of licensure or practice in any state that triggers .2545(C) recredentialing.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after more than four years without licensure or practice
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Application channel
Board Renewals instructions direct applicants expired longer than one year to reinstatement or relicensure after contacting licensing; less than one year uses online renewal with a late fee. At exactly one year, obtain the Board-selected application.
Continuing education
Under .2545(C), the applicant need not provide the continuing-education evidence otherwise required by .2545(B)(3).
Documents
Board reinstatement application, statistical affidavit, recent photograph, Board-requested qualification evidence, applicable renewal and reinstatement fees and penalties.
Expired license
Previously issued Louisiana license has expired without renewal and applicant remains otherwise eligible.
Penalty
Under .2545(B)(5), penalty equals the renewal fee when applying less than two years after expiration and twice that fee when applying more than two years after expiration.
Recent recredentialing
LAC 46:XLV.2545(C) requires successful NBRC entry-level recredentialing within that four-year period. The current registered leaf is TMC.
Short inactivity
Not applicable: no respiratory-therapy license or practice in any state for more than four years immediately before application.
Ordinary annual renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exemption notice
The current Renewals page states that the only CE-exempt licensees are those in its listed federal/state employment categories. LAC 46:XLV.2567 and .2569 additionally state hardship waivers and NBRC-examination exceptions; those higher-ranked rules define the corresponding separate routes.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with a discretionary continuing education waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exemption notice
The current Renewals page states that the only CE-exempt licensees are those in its listed federal/state employment categories. LAC 46:XLV.2567 and .2569 additionally state hardship waivers and NBRC-examination exceptions; those higher-ranked rules define the corresponding separate routes.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.
Waiver
Written request before the renewal deadline, showing permanent physical disability, illness, financial hardship or similar extenuation preventing CE; Board discretion after Advisory Committee recommendation. Late requests are handled under .2565 rather than a waiver.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with the federal employment continuing education exception
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exemption notice
The current Renewals page states that the only CE-exempt licensees are those in its listed federal/state employment categories. LAC 46:XLV.2567 and .2569 additionally state hardship waivers and NBRC-examination exceptions; those higher-ranked rules define the corresponding separate routes.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
Federal employment
Employed exclusively by, or at an institution operated by, the United States Government; .2569(A)(1) exempts continuing education. Current Board instructions require employment verification and an exemption form no later than thirty days before renewal.
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

First renewal with the Board Laws and Rules course
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exemption notice
The current Renewals page states that the only CE-exempt licensees are those in its listed federal/state employment categories. LAC 46:XLV.2567 and .2569 additionally state hardship waivers and NBRC-examination exceptions; those higher-ranked rules define the corresponding separate routes.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Course classification
The Board requires a practitioner-group Laws and Rules course, and its official CE catalog identifies it as a one-hour online continuing-education course. It is recorded as training; no separate licensing examination is identified by those requirements.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
First renewal
The current Board continuing-education page states: "New licensees do not have to meet these annual requirements when renewing for the first time but do have some other rules-related CE they must complete." This implementing notice is retained alongside R.S. 37:3357.1 and LAC 46:XLV.2543.
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal or return following qualifying military service or spouse relocation
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board exemption notice
The current Renewals page states that the only CE-exempt licensees are those in its listed federal/state employment categories. LAC 46:XLV.2567 and .2569 additionally state hardship waivers and NBRC-examination exceptions; those higher-ranked rules define the corresponding separate routes.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
Military exemption
R.S. 37:3652 allows waiver of renewal/reinstatement fees and CE during the service period, but not for the year of release or discharge.
Military service
Performing or performed uniformed-services or National Guard service, or military spouse relocating with a servicemember ordered to active duty outside the United States and territories; deployment or relocation evidence must reach the Board before expiration.
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.
Return to practice
Where no federal minimum licensing standard applies, the license continues provided fees and education are satisfied within 180 days of release or discharge. Where federal minima apply, Board measures can maintain inactive or dormant status until minimum standards are met.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal with the recent NBRC examination continuing education exception
Board exemption notice
The Board Renewals page says "The only licensees exempted from CE requirements are" its listed employment categories. The regulation expressly also permits the NBRC examination exception and controls that point.
Continuing education
Document at least ten approved contact hours in the preceding twelve months, subject to the specifically recorded statutory or Board exceptions.
Course and tracking
Complete the Board Laws and Rules course before first renewal. CE Broker must show the applicable course completion and continuing-education credit.
Disciplinary suspension
A suspended license remains subject to renewal requirements under R.S. 37:3358(D).
Other nbrc examinations
LAC 46:XLV.2557 also recognizes NBRC specialty credentialing and recredentialing examinations for CE credit without resolving every specialty slot to a named examination. Those open, unidentified slots are conditions.
Recent nbrc examination
Under LAC 46:XLV.2569(A)(2), NBRC credentialing or recredentialing by examination during the twelve months before renewal exempts CE. The period is a condition, not an examination-version date.
Renewal timing
Annual renewal on or before the last day of the licensee birth month; submit Board renewal application and renewal fee.

Temporary respiratory therapist license (examination permit)

Statutory six-month examination permit. Current Board instructions say temporary permits are no longer issued for this license type; the Board home page retains urgent, emergent and public-emergency discretion. These implementation notices are retained in route conditions.

Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners · Application information

Exceptional extension of temporary examination permit
Board discretion
Issuance is discretionary, and the Board can impose restrictions or limitations.
Current board instruction
The current Respiratory Therapist Initial Application Instructions state: "Please note that we will no longer issue temporary permits for this license type."
Current emergency policy
The Board home page says temporary licenses/permits are no longer routinely granted and retains authority for urgent or emergent state issues or public benefit during emergencies.
Duration
Expires at the earlier of six months after issuance or Board action following successful NBRC examination; .2547 also terminates it following the fourth unsuccessful entry-level attempt.
Eligibility
Meet the ordinary qualifications other than completed NBRC examination, and have applied for normal Louisiana licensure. R.S. 37:3357.3 requires completed respiratory education and an application for, and awaiting, NBRC examination. LAC 46:XLV.2547 includes applicants awaiting examination administration or scores.
Exceptional extension
R.S. 37:3357.3(B) permits discretionary exceptions for an appeal identifying extenuating circumstances. LAC 46:XLV.2547 permits only one extension of up to three months, with a written appeal at least thirty days before expiration and any requested exam results, review-course evidence or proof of extenuation. Ordinary renewal is unavailable.
Graduation window
Apply within one year of graduation or successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements under .2547; Board exceptions are discretionary.
Prior work permit
Subtract any time already held under a temporary work permit from the maximum examination-permit term.
Temporary examination permit pending NBRC examination
Board discretion
Issuance is discretionary, and the Board can impose restrictions or limitations.
Current board instruction
The current Respiratory Therapist Initial Application Instructions state: "Please note that we will no longer issue temporary permits for this license type."
Current emergency policy
The Board home page says temporary licenses/permits are no longer routinely granted and retains authority for urgent or emergent state issues or public benefit during emergencies.
Duration
Expires at the earlier of six months after issuance or Board action following successful NBRC examination; .2547 also terminates it following the fourth unsuccessful entry-level attempt.
Eligibility
Meet the ordinary qualifications other than completed NBRC examination, and have applied for normal Louisiana licensure. R.S. 37:3357.3 requires completed respiratory education and an application for, and awaiting, NBRC examination. LAC 46:XLV.2547 includes applicants awaiting examination administration or scores.
Graduation window
Apply within one year of graduation or successful completion of NBRC entry-level program requirements under .2547; Board exceptions are discretionary.
Prior work permit
Subtract any time already held under a temporary work permit from the maximum examination-permit term.

Temporary respiratory therapist work permit

Statutory sixty-day work permit, not renewable or extendable. Current Board temporary-permit notices are retained in route conditions.

Licensing authority: Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners · Application information

Temporary work permit for a graduate awaiting NBRC examination
Board discretion
Board may grant the permit; the person must not otherwise be demonstrably ineligible.
Current board instruction
The current Respiratory Therapist Initial Application Instructions state: "Please note that we will no longer issue temporary permits for this license type."
Current emergency policy
The Board home page says temporary licenses/permits are no longer routinely granted and retains authority for urgent or emergent state issues or public benefit during emergencies.
Duration
Sixty days; R.S. 37:3357.4 and LAC 46:XLV.2548 prohibit renewal or extension.
Examination pending
Applied for and awaiting NBRC examination as required by R.S. 37:3357.4(A)(2).
Normal application
File an application for a normal Louisiana respiratory therapist license.
Prior examination permit
A person granted the six-month examination permit cannot subsequently receive the temporary work permit.
Respiratory education
Graduate of respiratory therapy education; meets examination-permit eligibility under .2547.
Temporary work permit for an NBRC credentialed applicant
Board discretion
Board may grant the permit; the person must not otherwise be demonstrably ineligible.
Current board instruction
The current Respiratory Therapist Initial Application Instructions state: "Please note that we will no longer issue temporary permits for this license type."
Current emergency policy
The Board home page says temporary licenses/permits are no longer routinely granted and retains authority for urgent or emergent state issues or public benefit during emergencies.
Duration
Sixty days; R.S. 37:3357.4 and LAC 46:XLV.2548 prohibit renewal or extension.
National credentials
Currently credentialed in respiratory therapy by NBRC; prior passing of a currently offered examination remains represented by its registered leaf.
Normal application
File an application for a normal Louisiana respiratory therapist license.
Prior examination permit
A person granted the six-month examination permit cannot subsequently receive the temporary work permit.

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