CRT Respiratory Exam Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21When analyzing the symmetry of chest movements during ventilation, which of the following statements is TRUE?
✓ Correct answer: B. Asymmetry in chest movements can indicate underlying pathological conditions.
Answer: Asymmetry in chest movements can indicate underlying pathological conditions. Asymmetry in chest movements during ventilation can suggest conditions like atelectasis, pleural effusion, or pneumothorax. Symmetrical chest expansion is typically observed in healthy individuals. Therefore, observing asymmetrical chest movements is a crucial clinical sign indicating potential respiratory issues.
Q22A respiratory therapist is reviewing the medical history of a patient diagnosed with asthma. The patient insists that they have never had any known allergies. Which of the following potential causes for their asthma is LEAST likely?
✓ Correct answer: A. The patient has a history of significant radon exposure.
Answer: The patient has a history of significant radon exposure. Radon exposure is more commonly linked to lung cancer rather than asthma. A family history of asthma, prolonged exposure to air pollution, and working in environments with high levels of dust and particulate matter are all known risk factors for developing asthma.
Q23Which of the following is NOT a potential complication associated with mechanical ventilation that should be monitored by the respiratory therapist?
✓ Correct answer: C. Acidosis
Answer: Acidosis Complications of mechanical ventilation can include ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due to prolonged intubation, barotrauma caused by excessive ventilatory pressures, and oxygen toxicity from high levels of oxygen exposure. Acidosis is typically an underlying condition that may require mechanical ventilation but is not a complication caused by the ventilation itself.
Q24A 56-year-old patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is brought into the hospital following a severe asthma attack. The patient is cyanotic, has poor respiratory effort, and is unresponsive. Which of the following medications is MOST important for the respiratory therapist to recommend?
✓ Correct answer: C. Albuterol
Answer: Albuterol The patient appears to be having a severe asthma attack, and albuterol is a bronchodilator commonly used to provide quick relief from asthma symptoms. Ipratropium bromide, while helpful, should be used as an adjunct to albuterol for a combination therapy in severe cases. Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid and is used for long-term management rather than immediate relief. Epinephrine is generally reserved for anaphylaxis rather than asthma attacks.
Q25When treating an asthmatic patient in acute respiratory distress, which of the following is TRUE?
✓ Correct answer: C. Administering bronchodilators and steroids is a mainstay of treatment
Answer: Administering bronchodilators and steroids is a mainstay of treatment Asthma exacerbations are primarily treated with bronchodilators, often in the form of short-acting beta-agonists (SABA), and systemic corticosteroids. These therapies help to open airways and reduce inflammation. While severe cases may require escalation to other forms of respiratory support, mechanical ventilation, and emergency intubation are generally reserved for life-threatening situations. Antibiotics are not typically indicated unless there is a concurrent bacterial infection.
Q26During a routine assessment of an adult patient with known chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the respiratory therapist notes an $$SpO_{2}$$ of 89%. The patient's respiratory rate is 24 breaths per minute, and they appear to be in no acute distress. What intervention should the respiratory therapist recommend?
✓ Correct answer: A. Continue with current treatment and provide supplemental oxygen as needed
Answer: Continue with current treatment and provide supplemental oxygen as needed A patient with known COPD who has an $$SpO_{2}$$ of 89% and is in no acute distress typically does not require invasive intervention. Continuing current treatment with adjustments like providing supplemental oxygen is generally sufficient unless there are additional signs of respiratory failure.
Q27The respiratory therapist is evaluating a patient with suspected acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Which of the following imaging techniques would NOT be used to assess ARDS?
✓ Correct answer: D. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Answer: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is generally not used to assess ARDS. MRI is more commonly used for detailed imaging of soft tissues and the central nervous system. Chest X-Ray is commonly used to identify bilateral infiltrates indicative of ARDS. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan provides detailed images that can help identify lung pathology in ARDS patients. Ultrasound can be used to detect pleural effusions and other lung abnormalities associated with ARDS.
Q28A patient tests positive for influenza. Which of the following isolation precautions should be used for this patient? Options Precautions 1 Standard 2 Contact 3 Droplet 4 Airborne 5 Contact plus
✓ Correct answer: D. 1 & 3
Answer: 1 & 3 Influenza is predominantly spread via droplet transmission, requiring droplet precautions. Standard precautions should always be followed for every patient. Airborne, contact, or contact plus precautions are not required for influenza.
Q29Which of the following correctly describes the sterility assurance level (SAL) in the context of medical device sterilization?
✓ Correct answer: B. A probability of a single viable microorganism occurring on a device that has undergone the sterilization process
Answer: A probability of a single viable microorganism occurring on a device that has undergone the sterilization process The sterility assurance level (SAL) is the probability of a single viable microorganism occurring on a device that has been subjected to sterilization. The commonly accepted SAL for medical devices is $$10^{-6}$$, which ensures a high level of sterility. Lower probabilities, such as $$10^{-3}$$, are inadequate for most medical applications.
Q30Which of the following is NOT a necessary component for ensuring the proper function of a mechanical ventilator in a hospital setting?
✓ Correct answer: B. A back-up manual ventilator (bag-valve mask) stored in a different room
Answer: A back-up manual ventilator (bag-valve mask) stored in a different room. While having a back-up manual ventilator (bag-valve mask) is essential for patient safety, it is not necessary for ensuring the proper function of a mechanical ventilator. Mechanical ventilators should be equipped with alarms for disconnections and high/low pressure, a humidification system to prevent drying of airways, and regular routine maintenance checks.
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