RRT Respiratory Exam Prep Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (11–20)

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a correct step when initiating non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for a patient with acute respiratory failure?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Apply a tight-fitting mask and immediately set the maximum pressure support. Answer: Apply a tight-fitting mask and immediately set the maximum pressure support When initiating non-invasive ventilation (NIV), it is crucial to start with lower pressure support settings and gradually adjust according to the patient's response and comfort. Immediate maximum pressure can lead to discomfort and may worsen air leaks around the mask. Monitoring patient comfort, ensuring a good mask fit, and checking vital signs are standard procedures.

Question 2

Review the patient details below: What preventive measures could minimize the risk of the new symptoms experienced by the patient? (SELECT AS MANY as you consider indicated.) Factor Value Patient Age 50 Occupation Office worker Medical History Hypertension Smoking Status Non-smoker Symptoms Sudden shortness of breath, chest discomfort Recent Health Event Hip surgery Activity Level Immobile due to surgery Vital Signs HR: 120; RR: 28; O2 Sat: 88%

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Implementing leg exercises. The patient is at risk for a pulmonary embolism due to recent immobility after hip surgery. Preventive measures like leg exercises and encouraging mobility help maintain circulation and reduce this risk. Avoiding stress and scheduling a dietary consult do not directly reduce embolism risk. Complete bed rest might exacerbate the issue by promoting immobility.

Question 3

Which condition is LEAST likely to contribute to a decreased Inspiratory Capacity (IC)?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Pulmonary embolism. Answer: Pulmonary embolism Pulmonary embolism does not directly affect the air volume that can be inspired, hence it does not typically lead to a decreased IC. Conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, pleural effusion, and pulmonary edema can all contribute to a reduction in Inspiratory Capacity as they affect lung mechanics and airflow.

Question 4

A registered respiratory therapist is assessing a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who is prescribed a home nebulizer. Which of the following is NOT a consideration for this patient regarding the maintenance of their nebulizer system?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

The nebulizer should be cleaned every few weeks. Answer: The nebulizer should be cleaned every few weeks The nebulizer should be cleaned after each use, not every few weeks, to ensure proper hygiene and function. Thorough drying prevents mold and bacteria growth. Tubing and other components should be regularly replaced to maintain performance and safety. The respiratory therapist should assess the patient's technique and the nebulizer's functionality during routine visits.

Question 5

A patient with a potential obstructed airway is to undergo a tracheostomy. What is an important consideration when choosing a tracheostomy over other airway interventions?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Tracheostomy reduces the risk of vocal cord damage. Answer: Tracheostomy reduces the risk of vocal cord damage. Tracheostomy is generally preferred when prolonged airway management is necessary, as it avoids the complications associated with intubation, such as vocal cord damage. It also provides better patient comfort and allows for easier oral and airway hygiene.

Question 6

Which of the following factors is LEAST significant when modifying ventilation settings for a patient with COPD in ACV mode?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Ventilator humidification. Answer: Ventilator humidification. Although humidification of inspired gases is important for patient comfort and airway protection, it is not a critical factor in adjusting ventilation settings for a COPD patient in Assist Control Ventilation (ACV) mode. Inspiratory flow rate, tidal volume, and $$FiO_{2}$$ levels are more direct factors that impact ventilation and oxygenation in these patients.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a critical step in preparing a patient for a bronchoscopy?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Administer bronchodilator nebulization immediately prior. Administering a bronchodilator nebulization is not typically a primary preparation step for bronchoscopy. Essential steps include ensuring the patient is supine, administering topical anesthetics to ensure patient comfort, and confirming the patient has been NPO (nothing by mouth) to prevent aspiration risk.

Question 8

Based on the details below, which interventions are MOST likely to stabilize this patient? (SELECT AS MANY as you consider indicated.) Parameter Value Age 34 years Condition Acute Asthma Exacerbation Breath Sounds Wheezing, diminished Respiratory Rate 38 Heart Rate 130 Blood Pressure 145/90 SpO2 88% ABG Results pH 7.31; PaCO2 50 mmHg; PaO2 55 mmHg

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Systemic corticosteroids. Acute asthma exacerbations require interventions to quickly reduce airway inflammation and open the airways. Continuous albuterol provides sustained bronchodilation. Systemic corticosteroids decrease airway inflammation, essential in stabilizing asthma exacerbations. High-flow oxygen therapy can improve hypoxemia by increasing oxygen delivery. Antibiotics are not routinely indicated unless there is evidence of bacterial infection, which is not present in this scenario. Bronchoscopy is not a typical intervention for asthma exacerbation.

Question 9

Which of the following characteristics defines assist-control ventilation mode?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Breaths can be triggered by patient effort or by time intervals. Answer: Breaths can be triggered by patient effort or by time intervals In assist-control ventilation, while the ventilator delivers breaths at preset intervals, the patient can also initiate breaths. Spontaneous breathing can occur alongside mandatory breaths, unlike in control mode ventilation, where only time-triggered breaths happen.

Question 10

Use the following details to determine which advice should be given to a patient with COPD during their outpatient follow-up. (SELECT AS MANY as you consider indicated.)

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Importance of quitting smoking to prevent further exacerbations. Patients with COPD should be advised on the importance of smoking cessation to prevent further exacerbations and complications. Proper inhaler technique is crucial to ensure effective delivery of medication. While living conditions such as the type of flooring can affect air quality, the pressing issue for someone with COPD is to quit smoking rather than changing flooring materials. Increasing oxygen therapy during physical activity should only be done under medical guidance and is not a primary intervention in this context.

RRT Respiratory Exam Prep Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (11–20)

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