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Tennessee Respiratory Therapy — Requirements & Free Practice

US-TN · License preparation

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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.

ABG Endorsement

Board endorsement for blood-gas and associated specimen analysis; attached to the underlying professional authorization.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

ABG endorsement through current NBRC CRT credential
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Credential
Submit verification of a current NBRC CRT credential; the matching currently offered examinations are retained even if passed before endorsement application.
Scope
Endorsement permits specimen analysis of blood gases, pH and associated parameters with equipment maintenance and quality assurance.
ABG endorsement through current NBRC RRT credential
Credential
Submit verification of a current NBRC RRT credential; the matching currently offered examinations are retained even if passed before endorsement application.
Scope
Endorsement permits specimen analysis of blood gases, pH and associated parameters with equipment maintenance and quality assurance.
ABG endorsement through Tennessee Special Analyst Blood Gas license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Other profession license
Submit verification of the current Special Analyst-Blood Gas license issued by the Tennessee Medical Laboratory Board; that separate-profession license and any of its examinations are applicant conditions only.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Licensed Certified Respiratory Therapist

Certified respiratory therapist license; retirement and reinstatement preserve this license identity. Current applicants must hold and maintain active NBRC credentials.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Upgrade from Respiratory Care Assistant
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Existing tennessee classification
Hold the Tennessee Respiratory Care Assistant license; submit the upgrade application, recent photograph, new criminal background check, education evidence and upgrade/state regulatory fees.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Single license
T.C.A. 63-27-105(d) permits only one Tennessee respiratory-care license at a time.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Upgrade evidence
NBRC sends matching examination passage or certification directly to the Board. The currently offered exams are retained even if passed before upgrade application.
Restoration by compliance with a disciplinary order
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
The Board sets the conditions and interval; ordinarily a revoked-license petition is not considered before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Order compliance
Prove compliance with every term of the prior disciplinary order, pay assessed civil penalties, petition and appear before the Board under Rule 1330-01-.15. Any case-specific professional assessment ordered by the Board remains an applicant condition; the general restoration provisions identify no examination slot.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and seeks restoration after revocation, or lifting of suspension or probation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Licensure by endorsement or reciprocity
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC CRT credential, corresponding to the TMC low-cut threshold; an existing CRTT credential is accepted as stated in T.C.A. 63-27-105(b)(1)(D)(i).
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Reinstatement of expired license after practice elsewhere using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at forty-eight hours, begun and completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and practiced in another state during expiration; that license is an applicant condition, not a leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement of expired license after practice elsewhere using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at forty-eight hours, begun and completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and practiced in another state during expiration; that license is an applicant condition, not a leaf.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reinstatement of expired license without practice elsewhere using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at sixty hours, completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license; no practice in another state during expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement of expired license without practice elsewhere using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at sixty hours, completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license; no practice in another state during expiration.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Initial licensure by examination or existing matching NBRC credential
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC CRT credential, corresponding to the TMC low-cut threshold; an existing CRTT credential is accepted as stated in T.C.A. 63-27-105(b)(1)(D)(i).
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Renewal or reinstatement of legacy Tennessee RRT license as CRT
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current requirements
Meet the relevant renewal or reinstatement application, fee and CE conditions. This conversion is not initial examination licensure; optional NBRC examination CE credit is separately retained.
Legacy license
A previously issued Tennessee registered respiratory therapist license without the NBRC RRT credential is renewed or reinstated as a certified respiratory therapist under Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Expedited endorsement for military member
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Expedited process
The military declaration accompanies the ordinary license application and expedites processing; it does not replace licensure qualifications.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Military eligibility
Currently licensed or certified elsewhere and retired, honorably or otherwise non-dishonorably discharged, or released to a reserve component within the preceding 180 days; supply military identification, separation documents and expedited license verification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC CRT credential, corresponding to the TMC low-cut threshold; an existing CRTT credential is accepted as stated in T.C.A. 63-27-105(b)(1)(D)(i).
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Expedited endorsement for military spouse
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Expedited process
The military declaration accompanies the ordinary license application and expedites processing; it does not replace licensure qualifications.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Military eligibility
Currently licensed or certified elsewhere and spouse of a US armed-forces member subject to a military transfer to Tennessee; supply spouse military identification, transfer orders and expedited license verification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC CRT credential, corresponding to the TMC low-cut threshold; an existing CRTT credential is accepted as stated in T.C.A. 63-27-105(b)(1)(D)(i).
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Biennial renewal using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Renewal
Submit the completed signed renewal and renewal/state fees by the expiration date; a lapsed license must be reinstated.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Biennial renewal using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Renewal
Submit the completed signed renewal and renewal/state fees by the expiration date; a lapsed license must be reinstated.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reactivation after retirement over one year using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for each retirement calendar year, maximum twenty-four; obtained during retirement except the most recent calendar-year hours completed in the twelve months preceding reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status for more than one year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reactivation after retirement over one year using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for each retirement calendar year, maximum twenty-four; obtained during retirement except the most recent calendar-year hours completed in the twelve months preceding reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status for more than one year.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reactivation after retirement of one year or less using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees; a request before one year also requires the rule-specified late-renewal fee.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Fulfill the rule CE requirements as a prerequisite; these hours do not count toward future CE.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status; retirement is one year or less.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reactivation after retirement of one year or less using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees; a request before one year also requires the rule-specified late-renewal fee.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Fulfill the rule CE requirements as a prerequisite; these hours do not count toward future CE.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status; retirement is one year or less.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Conversion of active license to retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Prior status
Hold an active Tennessee CRT license and intend not to practice respiratory care.
Retirement
Submit the retirement affidavit or other Board-required documentation; retirement takes effect on receipt of the affidavit. No renewal fee is due to maintain retired status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement following revocation for CE noncompliance using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Board order
Reinstatement is subject to Board discretion and compliance with the prior order; ordinarily no petition before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for every revoked calendar year, obtained during revocation except the most recent calendar-year hours completed within twelve months before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Legacy transition
Rule 1330-01-.09(3) and .11(3) direct an old Tennessee RRT license lacking the NBRC RRT credential to renewal or reinstatement as CRT.
Prior status
This Tennessee license was revoked for noncompliance with CE requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement following revocation for CE noncompliance using NBRC examination credit
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Board order
Reinstatement is subject to Board discretion and compliance with the prior order; ordinarily no petition before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for every revoked calendar year, obtained during revocation except the most recent calendar-year hours completed within twelve months before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
This Tennessee license was revoked for noncompliance with CE requirements.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.

Licensed Registered Respiratory Therapist

Registered respiratory therapist license; retirement and reinstatement preserve this license identity. Current applicants must hold and maintain active NBRC credentials.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Upgrade from Respiratory Care Assistant
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Existing tennessee classification
Hold the Tennessee Respiratory Care Assistant license; submit the upgrade application, recent photograph, new criminal background check, education evidence and upgrade/state regulatory fees.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Single license
T.C.A. 63-27-105(d) permits only one Tennessee respiratory-care license at a time.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Upgrade evidence
NBRC sends matching examination passage or certification directly to the Board. The currently offered exams are retained even if passed before upgrade application.
Upgrade from Certified Respiratory Therapist
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Existing tennessee classification
Hold the Tennessee Certified Respiratory Therapist license; submit the upgrade application, recent photograph, new criminal background check, education evidence and upgrade/state regulatory fees.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Single license
T.C.A. 63-27-105(d) permits only one Tennessee respiratory-care license at a time.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Upgrade evidence
NBRC sends matching examination passage or certification directly to the Board. The currently offered exams are retained even if passed before upgrade application.
Restoration by compliance with a disciplinary order
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board discretion
The Board sets the conditions and interval; ordinarily a revoked-license petition is not considered before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Order compliance
Prove compliance with every term of the prior disciplinary order, pay assessed civil penalties, petition and appear before the Board under Rule 1330-01-.15. Any case-specific professional assessment ordered by the Board remains an applicant condition; the general restoration provisions identify no examination slot.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and seeks restoration after revocation, or lifting of suspension or probation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Licensure by endorsement or reciprocity
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC RRT credential, corresponding to TMC high-cut eligibility and passage of CSE; preexisting qualifying RRT credentials remain applicant evidence.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Reinstatement of expired license after practice elsewhere using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at forty-eight hours, begun and completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and practiced in another state during expiration; that license is an applicant condition, not a leaf.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement of expired license after practice elsewhere using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at forty-eight hours, begun and completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and practiced in another state during expiration; that license is an applicant condition, not a leaf.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reinstatement of expired license without practice elsewhere using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at sixty hours, completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license; no practice in another state during expiration.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement of expired license without practice elsewhere using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours per expired calendar year, capped at sixty hours, completed before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Fees
Submit the reinstatement application, all past-due renewal fees and late-renewal fee.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license; no practice in another state during expiration.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Initial licensure by examination or existing matching NBRC credential
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC RRT credential, corresponding to TMC high-cut eligibility and passage of CSE; preexisting qualifying RRT credentials remain applicant evidence.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Expedited endorsement for military member
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Expedited process
The military declaration accompanies the ordinary license application and expedites processing; it does not replace licensure qualifications.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Military eligibility
Currently licensed or certified elsewhere and retired, honorably or otherwise non-dishonorably discharged, or released to a reserve component within the preceding 180 days; supply military identification, separation documents and expedited license verification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC RRT credential, corresponding to TMC high-cut eligibility and passage of CSE; preexisting qualifying RRT credentials remain applicant evidence.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Expedited endorsement for military spouse
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Continuing education
Provide proof of at least twelve hours of continuing education for the previous calendar year. The optional examination-credit pathway is separately retained.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
English proficiency
For non-US citizens with applicable foreign education, provide legal-entry documentation and the rule-specified English competency examination unless the English-language or British Commonwealth exemption applies; language tests are conditions, not leaves.
Examination evidence
The currently offered credentialing examinations remain leaves even when passed before application. A preexisting matching NBRC credential satisfies the applicant evidence requirement.
Existing license
Currently licensed in another state, territory or country; Board determines qualifications equivalent to Tennessee. Rule 1330-01-.05(3)(a) requests a current out-of-state license in good standing.
Expedited process
The military declaration accompanies the ordinary license application and expedites processing; it does not replace licensure qualifications.
Foreign education
An otherwise unaccredited foreign program may be evaluated by a credentialing agency or higher-education institution; certified grades and curriculum and the evaluator original signed results go directly to the Board.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Military eligibility
Currently licensed or certified elsewhere and spouse of a US armed-forces member subject to a military transfer to Tennessee; supply spouse military identification, transfer orders and expedited license verification.
Nbrc status
Hold and maintain the active NBRC credential matching the Tennessee license classification; NBRC sends verification directly.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Passing standard
NBRC RRT credential, corresponding to TMC high-cut eligibility and passage of CSE; preexisting qualifying RRT credentials remain applicant evidence.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.
Biennial renewal using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Renewal
Submit the completed signed renewal and renewal/state fees by the expiration date; a lapsed license must be reinstated.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Biennial renewal using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Renewal
Submit the completed signed renewal and renewal/state fees by the expiration date; a lapsed license must be reinstated.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reactivation after retirement over one year using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for each retirement calendar year, maximum twenty-four; obtained during retirement except the most recent calendar-year hours completed in the twelve months preceding reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status for more than one year.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reactivation after retirement over one year using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for each retirement calendar year, maximum twenty-four; obtained during retirement except the most recent calendar-year hours completed in the twelve months preceding reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status for more than one year.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Reactivation after retirement of one year or less using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees; a request before one year also requires the rule-specified late-renewal fee.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Fulfill the rule CE requirements as a prerequisite; these hours do not count toward future CE.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status; retirement is one year or less.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reactivation after retirement of one year or less using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Application
Submit the reinstatement application and applicable renewal/state fees; a request before one year also requires the rule-specified late-renewal fee.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Fulfill the rule CE requirements as a prerequisite; these hours do not count toward future CE.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
Previously held this Tennessee license and converted it to retired status; retirement is one year or less.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.
Conversion of active license to retired status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Prior status
Hold an active Tennessee RRT license and intend not to practice respiratory care.
Retirement
Submit the retirement affidavit or other Board-required documentation; retirement takes effect on receipt of the affidavit. No renewal fee is due to maintain retired status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement following revocation for CE noncompliance using continuing education coursework
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Board order
Reinstatement is subject to Board discretion and compliance with the prior order; ordinarily no petition before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Ce completion basis
This route uses approved continuing education or other non-NBRC-examination credit. The separate examination-credit route preserves optional NBRC examination alternatives; no examination is required for this coursework route.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for every revoked calendar year, obtained during revocation except the most recent calendar-year hours completed within twelve months before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Prior status
This Tennessee license was revoked for noncompliance with CE requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-06-21.

Reinstatement following revocation for CE noncompliance using NBRC examination credit
Active credentials
For CRT and RRT title use, Rule 1330-01-.02 requires the matching active NBRC credential and a current unsuspended, unrevoked Tennessee license. Continuing credential status is an applicant condition of continuing practice.
Annual ce
Twelve approved hours for each applicable calendar year: at least five clinical or cardiopulmonary research, one patient safety, one professional or ethical standards, and five remaining education or management hours; at least five hours live in real time with interactive opportunity.
Board order
Reinstatement is subject to Board discretion and compliance with the prior order; ordinarily no petition before one year unless the order states otherwise.
Ce completion basis
Applicant elects the NBRC examination-credit option in Rule 1330-01-.12(2)(b)(3); passing one accepted examination earns ten CE hours and does not satisfy the separate patient-safety or ethics hours.
Ce evidence
Retain completion evidence for three years; provide it when requested. Reinstatement-credit hours may not also count toward the ordinary current-calendar-year requirement.
Ce reinstatement
Twelve CE hours for every revoked calendar year, obtained during revocation except the most recent calendar-year hours completed within twelve months before reinstatement.
Ce waiver
The Board may grant a CE waiver or deadline extension for an individually substantiated emergency or hardship; an approved waiver applies only to the renewal period sought.
Interim authorization
Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c) permits temporary authorization during renewal or reinstatement subject to Board ratification.
Open specialty remainder
The named specialties are nonexclusive examples; other NBRC specialty examination credit is a condition of Board acceptance, not an invented examination leaf.
Prior status
This Tennessee license was revoked for noncompliance with CE requirements.
Unregistered specialty options
The rule also accepts NBRC specialty examinations, expressly naming Sleep Disorder Specialty and Certified Pulmonary Function Technologist. Those examination options have no registered version in the supplied nationwide context and remain conditions pending nationwide registration.

Temporary License — Certified Respiratory Therapist

Temporary certified therapist license while the NBRC examination result is outstanding; maximum cumulative duration twelve months.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Temporary licensure pending NBRC examination result
Therapist Multiple-Choice Examination
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Duration
Maximum cumulative twelve months; the application remains open one year while awaiting NBRC results sent directly by NBRC. Temporary authority ceases when a permanent license issues.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Examination timing
Applicant has completed required education and is scheduled for the applicable NBRC examination; passage may follow temporary issuance. This route involves the currently offered matching examination or examinations.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Temporary issuance is available with examination-passage evidence outstanding under Rule 1330-01-.14; the full-license NBRC evidence must follow.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.

Temporary License — Registered Respiratory Therapist

Temporary registered therapist license while the NBRC examination result is outstanding; maximum cumulative duration twelve months.

Licensing authority: Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care · Application information

Temporary licensure pending NBRC examination result
Age
At least eighteen years old.
Application
Submit the sworn, signed, notarized Board application, all required documents, a passport-style photograph taken within the preceding twelve months, and applicable application, license and state regulatory fees.
Background check
The identified vendor must submit the criminal background-check result directly to the Board.
Citizenship
Complete the Declaration of Citizenship and attach its required documents, as instructed by the current application.
Disclosures
Disclose criminal convictions other than minor traffic violations, prior denial or discipline, loss or restriction of licensure, civil judgments or settlements, and known pending licensure investigations.
Documents
Where necessary, submit both original documents and issuing-source-certified English translations.
Duration
Maximum cumulative twelve months; the application remains open one year while awaiting NBRC results sent directly by NBRC. Temporary authority ceases when a permanent license issues.
Education
Successful academic and clinical preparation in a program approved by CAAHEP or its successor, recognized by NBRC registry, or recognized by the Board including CoARC-supported or accredited programs; school sends the certificate, diploma or final transcript directly.
Examination timing
Applicant has completed required education and is scheduled for the applicable NBRC examination; passage may follow temporary issuance. This route involves the currently offered matching examination or examinations.
Interim authorization
A complete application may receive temporary authorization under Rule 1330-01-.07(2); it remains subject to Board ratification under Rule 1330-01-.19(2)(c). This is an interim approval of the same license classification.
Nbrc status
Temporary issuance is available with examination-passage evidence outstanding under Rule 1330-01-.14; the full-license NBRC evidence must follow.
Other licenses
Every board from which the applicant holds or held a professional license or certification must send license-status and good-standing verification directly.
Profile
Complete and maintain the practitioner profile; report changes within thirty days as directed by the current application.
Timeliness
Supporting documents are due within sixty days under Rule 1330-01-.05(1)(c); documents executed more than one year before filing are unacceptable. The currently linked form describes sixty days from deficiency notification; the June 2026 rules govern.

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