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Last updated 4 months ago
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1. A 55 y/o patient with dyspnea and a non-productive cough has the following noted examination results over the right lower lung field:
- dullness to percussion
- decreased tactile fremitus
- diminished breath sounds
Which of the following is most likely to produce these findings?
A. pulmonary embolism
B. pneumonia
C. pneumothorax
D. pleural effusion
Which of the following is associated with an optimally exposed chest radiograph?
A. vertebrae and lung markings are clearly visible
B. pleural spaces and heart borders are well defined
C. pulmonary vascular markings are absent
D. air bronchograms are easily identified
The use of respiratory accessory muscles is frequently the result of an increase in:
A. alveolar ventilation
B. lung compliance
C. airways resistance
D. cardiac output
A 30 y/o patient has been receiving mechanical ventilation for 24 hours following admission for a
drug overdose. The patient is alert, oriented, and stable, and has been weaned to PSV of 5 cmH20 and
an Fi02 of 0.40. The following data are collected after 30 minutes:

ph 7.45 Vt: 485 ml
C02: 34 torr MIP: -38 cmH20
Pa02: 125 torr RR: 16
HC03: 23 mEq/L

Which of the following should a RT recommend?
A. extubation
B. full ventilatory support
C. increased PS
D. re-evaluation in 4 hours
A physician orders 1 mg of medication to be administered by aerosol. If the concentration of a stock
solution is 0.04%, how many ml of the solution must be administered?
A. 0.25
B. 0.40
C. 4.00
D. 2.50
6. A pulse oximeter provides an accurate indication of a patient’s oxyhemoglobin saturation in which of the following clinical conditions?

Polycythemia pulmonary HTN CHF CO poisoning
A. Yes Yes Yes No
B. Yes Yes No Yes
C. Yes No Yes Yes
D. No Yes Yes Yes
A 70 kg (154lb), (6ft 3in) male postoperative patient is receiving VC, A/C ventilation. Pertinent data are below:

Fi02: 0.30 pH 7.29
Mandatory Rate: 12 PaC02: 51 torr
Total Rate: 14 Pa02: 86 torr
VT: 500 ml Hc03: 24 mEq/L
Inspiratory time: 1.0 sec B.E.: -2 mEq/L
PEEP: 5 cmH20

Which of the following should the RT recommend?
A. PEEP of 10 cmH20
B. Inspiratory time of 1.5 sec
C. Mandatory rate of 14
D. Tidal volume of 600 ml
If a RT chooses to use a portable ventilator to transport a patient within a hospital, the ventilator should have the ability to:
A. monitor pulmonary compliance
B. sound a disconnect alarm
C. switch to CPAP mode
D. provide pressure supported breaths
Auscultation immediately following intubation reveals absent breath sounds on the left. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this finding?
A. the patient is experiencing diffuse bronchospasm
B. the endotracheal tube is in the right mainstem bronchus
C. a tension pneumothorax has developed on the left
D. a tracheoesophageal fistula has developed
A patient with CHF tells a RT that he feels like he can breathe better when he sleeps sitting in a chair. This is most indicative of:
A. Orthopnea
B. Kussmaul breathing
C. Hyperpnea
D. Cheyne-stokes respiration
Which of the following can a RT use to determine a patient’s RSBI?
A. Vane respirometer
B. Peak flowmeter
C. Pressure manometer
D. Capnometer
A pt. involved in a MVA presents with respiratory distress. A chest radiograph confirms the presence of multiple fractures to five adjacent ribs on the left side. Which of the following physical findings should be expected during assessment of the chest?
A. Trachea deviated to the left
B. See-saw movement of the abdomen and chest
C. Paradoxical motion of the left chest during inspiration
D. Tympany over the right chest
A patient with OSA reports he continues to experience significant daytime sleepiness. He states he uses his nasal CPAP at the prescribed level of 12 cmH20 every night, determined by previous polysomnographic testing. A repeat sleep study indicates multiple periods of absent airflow, without chest or abdominal movement. Which of the following should a RT recommend?
A. Increase CPAP to 15 cmH20
B. Perform an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
C. Switch to a full-face mask
D. initiate bi-level positive airway pressure
Which of the following masks should be used to deliver a 70/30 heliox mixture most
effectively to a patient?
A. Simple
B. Aerosol
C. Air entrainment
D. Nonrebreathing
Which of the following should a RT use to assess the severity of possible CO poisoning?
A. arterial oxygen tension
B. complete blood count
C. hemoximetry
D. pulse oximetry
When reviewing the chart of a newly admitted patient, a RT finds the pt. has COPD and a 70 pk/yr smoking history. The pt. was admitted for dyspnea. The pt. is somnolent and can protect his airway. Which of the following should the therapist recommend FIRST?
CT scan of the chest
pulmonary function testing
echocardiogram
arterial blood gas
A pt. with a 50 pk/yr history of smoking has a cough and an infiltrate on a CXR that persists despite a 1 month course of antibiotic therapy. Which of the following should a RT recommend?
flexible bronchoscopy
pulmonary function tests
open lung biopsy
thoracentesis
Short acting and long acting bronchodilator aerosols have been ordered at inconsistent frequencies, and occasionally for patients who do not require bronchodilator therapy. To address these concerns, a RT should recommend:
developing a bronchodilator therapy protocol
informing physicians on an individual basis when errors are detected
educating nursing staff on what constitutes acceptable physician orders
administering therapy as determined by individual therapist discretion
Which of the following drugs is a beta 2 agonist?
acetylcysteine
beclomethasone dipropionate (vanceril)
ipratropium bromide (atrovent)
levalbuterol (xopenex)
A RT observes the following data while monitoring mechanical ventilation:
8:00 am 9:00 am 10:00 am
peak pressure (cmH20) 35 40 43
Plateau pressure (cmH20) 30 28 24
Set PEEP was constant. Which of the following is present?
airway resistance is increasing and compliance remains the same
lung compliance is decreasing only
airway resistance is increasing and lung compliance in increasing
lung compliance is increasing only
A RT is asked to review a newborn's history. The following information is available:
1 minute 5 minutes
color acrocyanosis pink
pulse 70 110
reflex cough cough
tone weak active motion
RR 20 40
Which of the following APGAR scores do you expect to see?
4, 8
5, 8
6, 10
7, 10
The primary purpose of cleaning and sterilizing nondisposable respiratory care equipment after each use is to:
extend the life of the equipment
prevent cross infection and reinfection of patients
prevent contamination of other equipment
protect the personnel who are handling the equipment
Chest physiotherapy is initiated for a patient who is alert and oriented. As therapy progresses, a RT notices the patient is no longer responsive to verbal stimuli. The therapist checks the patient's pulse and finds that the HR is 30. The patient has a RR of 6. Which of the following should the therapist do NEXT?
obtain an ABG
call the patient's physician
perform nasotracheal suctioning
activate the medical emergency team
Which of the following information may be obtained from a forced expiratory spirogram?
FVC and FEV1
FRC and FVC
FEV1 and RV
RV and FRC
A 20 y/o female with asthma presents in severe respiratory distress. The patient is tachypneic with accessory muscle use. BS reveal bilateral expiratory wheezes and Sp02 is 87% on air. A RT should recommend initiating:
levalbuterol by metered-dose inihaler
albuterol by continuous nebulization
salmeterol by dry powder inhaler
budesonide by small volume nebulizer
A RT examines a pt and notes coarse crackles over both lung fields. Which of the following does this most likely indicate?
subcutaneous emphysema
pleurisy
bronchospasm
secretions
A pt. had a tracheostomy for several weeks and was recently weaned form ventilatory support. Which of the following devices will allow decannulaiton of the trachea and maintain the patency of the stoma?
transtracheal catheter
oropharyngeal airway
tracheostomy button
laryngeal mask airway
A 34 y/o with bronchiectasis pt. with a significant amount of daily secretions wishes to continue an appropriate pulmonary hygiene program while maintaining full-time employment. Which of the following will best assist this patient in attaining this goal?
manual percussion
IPPB
albuterol MDI
vibratory PEP
A RT notes a patient who is receiving VC, A/C ventilation has thick mucoid secretions. The therapist observes that the servo-controlled humidifier is set at 31 C (88 F). Which of the following should the therapist do?
increase the humidifier termperature setting
increase the ventilator set flow
change to a heat moisture exchanger
drain ventllator circuit condensation
Following insertion of a central venous pressure catheter, a chest radiograph is taken to evaluate the position of the catheter. When viewing the radiograph, a RT notes the tip of the catheter is in the superior vena cava The therapist should conclude the catheter:
has been advanced too far
is in the proper position
has perforated a vessel
should be removed
A 39 y/o who is morbidly obese is admitted to teh ED with fever, productive cough, and SOB. The patient's vital signs are stable and he is awake and alert. After initiation of bronchodilator therapy and antibiotics, serial blood gas results reveal:
10 am 11 am
Fi02 0.21 0.50
pH 7.28 7.22
PaC02 72 85
Pa02 45 56
HC03 34 35
Sa02 78% 89%
The patient's clinical condition remains unchanged. Which of the following should a RT do NEXT?
maintain current therapy
initiate non-invasive ventilation
decrease Fi02 to 0.45
administer vibratory PEP
A pt. with a history of chronic bronchitis complains of SOB following thoracic surgery. The pt. is receiving 30% 02 by aerosol mask. Rhonchi in the right lower lobe are heard on auscultation. Which of the following should a RT recommend?
vibratory PEP
postural drainage
dornase alfa therapy
manual percussion
Initiation of an expiratory hold just prior to the next ventilator delivered breath facilitates the measurement of:
PPlat
auto-PEEP
peak airway pressure
set PEEP
A 65 y/o who is post CABG was extubated 4 hours ago and complains of increasing SOB. BS are decreased over the right lung field. The following data are available:
RR 25
HR 105
BP 155/90
Sp02 90% on 4LPM BNC
Which of the following studies should a RT recommend NEXT?
bedside spriometry
chest CT with contrast
ventilation-perfusion scan
chest radiograph
A RT is called to see a 59 y/o patient who has been in a persistent vegetative state for several months following a stroke. He is diaphoretic and has a pulse of 120 and an sp02 of 81% with a 28% tracheostomy collar. The therapist is unable to pass a suction catheter. Which of the following should the therapist do FIRST?
Replace the tracheostomy tube
increase suction pressure by 20%
initiate mechanical ventilation
use a smaller suction catheter
A patient's C(a-v)02 increased from 4.0 to 6.2 vol% after PEEP was increased. Which of the following best explains these results?
VD/VT decreased
static compliance increased
airways resistance increased
cardiac output decreased
A previously healthy 30 y/o patient is hospitalized with chills and fever. A chest radiograph is consistent with right upper lobe pneumonia. Which of the following is most likely to aid in the patient's management
in-exsullfation
coached coughing and deep breathing
bland aerosol therapy
spirometry before and after a bronchodilator
Which of the following is the most appropriate device to administer a controlled oxygen concentration for a patient with a variable respiratory pattern?
aerosol face tent
low flow nasal cannula
parital rebreathing mask
air-entrainment mask
A 168 cm (5ft 6in) 62 kg (135 lb) patient is receiving PC, A/C ventilation. The following data are available:

Fi02: 0.40 pH: 7.52
Mandatory rate: 15 PaC02: 26 torr
Total rate: 15 Pa02: 110 torr
PEEP 10 cmH20 HC03: 21 mEq/L
Set inspiratory pressure: 20 cmH20
I:E 1:4
Exhaled Vt 700 mL

A RT should recommend decreasing the:
Fi02
set inspiratory pressure
mandatory rate
inspiratory time
Which of the following is the primary benefit of respiratory care protocols?
improved patient outcomes
decreased workload
shorter work hours
increased autonomy
Which of the following is most effective for destroying microorganisms on patient care equipment?
acetic acid
pasteurization
autoclave
isopropyl alcohol
If the reservoir bag of a NRB mask collapses during inspiration, the RT should:
tighten the strap holding the mask to the face
increase the flow of oxygen to the reservoir bag
remove the valve between the mask and the reservoir bag
remove valves on the exhalatin ports of the mask
A pt. presents with a 3 month history of episodic SOB with exercise. A CXR, ECG, and echocardiogram are normal. The following spirometry results are obtained:

Pre-bronchodilator Post-bronchodilator
FEV1 2.9 L 3.1 L
FVC 3.2 L 3.4 L

Which of the following should a RT recommend NEXT?
bronchoprovocation test
overnight pulse oximetry
CT scan of the chest
lung volume measurements
When explaining the purpose of incentive spirometry to a patient after abdominal surgery, a RT should tell the patient the procedure is performed to:
prevent areas of the lung from collapsing
treat pneumonia in addition to antibiotics
reduce the pain associated with breathing
shorten the time for wound healing
The following capnographic tracing is noted for a patient receiving mechanical ventilation:

The RT should:
check the exhalation valve for a malfunction
recommend the SIMV mode of ventilation
evaluate the patient for airways obstruction
calculate the gradient between PaC02 and PetC02
A pt. with asthma is receiving a treatment with 2.5 mg of albuterol. During the treatment, the patient's HR increases from 80 to 138. A RT should recommend:
decreasing the dosage of albuterol
increasing the amount of saline per treatment
changing to ipratropium bromide (atrovent)
adding acetylcysteine to the treatment
Five minutes after extubating a patient, a RT observes marked stridor, labored breathing, intercostal retractions, and an Sp02 of 85%. Aerosolized racemic epi has been delivered without benefit. Which of the following should the therapist recommend at this time?
treatment with dexamethasone (decadron)
manual ventilation with bag and mask
a cool aerosol treatment
reintubation
A pt has a VT of 450 mL and a RR of 15. What is the minute ventilation (L/min)?
5.75
6.75
7.75
8.25
A pt. who is receiving mechanical ventilation is scheduled for a fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Which of the following is the primary threat to adequate ventilation during the procedure?
secretion production
elevated airway pressure
loss of consciousness
airway obstruction
While administering a hyperinflation treatment at 20 cmH20 to a patient with CF, a RT notes the patient has suddenly become very short of breath and cyanotic. The RT's most appropriate action is to:
suction the patient
terminate the treatment
decrease the peak pressure to 10 cmH20
stop the treatment for 10 to 20 minutes
A pt. with COPD is receiving oxygen by a nasal cannula at 1 L/min. The target Sp02 is 90%. The following data are obtained:
pH 7.35 RR 18
PaC02: 64 torr HR 100
Pa02: 52 torr BP 145/90 mmHg
HC03: 34 meq/L Sp02 85%
Which of the following should the RT recommend FIRST?
Place on a NRB
initiate NIV
change to a SFM
titrate nasal cannula flow
While counseling a pt. during a smoking cessation session, the pt. expresses concern about weight gain. A RT should address the patient's concern by explaining that this is partially the result of:
decreased metabolism
increased loss of self-control
reliance on nicotine replacment therapy
lack of available aversive conditioning
A patient's chest radiograph shows diffuse alveolar infiltrates. The following data are available:

CVP 12 mmHg
RAP 14 mmHg
Mean PAP 30 mmHg
PCWP: 26 mmHg
C.I. 1.6 L/min/m2

A RT should recommend administering:
albuterol
a fluid bolus
nitric oxide
diuretics
An ABG sample is requested for an adult pt. who is undergoing dialysis. The pt. has a surgical shunt in his left arm. Blood flow through the right ulnar artery is absent. A RT should obtain the sample from which of the following arteries?
right radial
left radial
right brachial
left brachial
A pt. is receiving VC, SIMV with the following settings:

Fi02 0.50
VT 400 mL
Mandatory rate: 12

A RT hears the low volume alarm and observes that the system pressure manometer reaches only 4-5 cmH20 during the inspiratory phase. The RT should:
check exhalation valve function
straighten the inspiratory line kink
empty condensate from the breathing circuit
switch to the A/C mode
Fi02 0.40 an who weighs 65 kg (143 lb) is receiving VC ventilation after abdominal surgery. Vent settings & ABG results are below:

Fi02 0.40 pH 7.47
Mandatory rate: 14 PaC02: 31
Total rate: 14 Pa02 117 torr
Tidal Volume: 700 mL HC03: 22 mEq/L

The RT should:
decrease the tidal volume
change to PC ventilation
increase the peak flow setting
administer bicarabonate IV
Which of the following is a side effect of inhaled nitric oxide?
decreased cardiac output
methemoglobinemia
systemic hypotension
increased WBC count
A RT instructs a pt. to take a deep breath and then exhale as quickly as possible. The RT observes a recording of the fastest air movement. Which of the following was measured?
peak flow
vital capacity
FEV 1
FEF 25-75%
A 28 y/o pt. is being evaluated by a RT after a trauma. The pt. is receiving PC ventilation with the following settings:
Fi02: 0.65
Mandatory rate: 14
PEEP: 8 cm H20
Set inspiratory pressure: 36 cmH20
The therapist notes the following pressure-volume tracing:


The therapist should recommend decreasing the:
mandatory rate
PEEP
set inspiratory pressure
expiratory time
The best way to check the accuracy of a spirometer is to use a:
3 L syringe
pneumotachometer
vortex sensor
Wright respirometer
A pt. receiving oxygen at 2 L/min through a transtracheal catheter complains that the supply tubing keeps popping off of the catheter. To correct this problem, a RT should:
decrease the flow of oxygen
check the catheter for obstruction
perform endotracheal suctioning
tape the connection securely
A wait of a few minutes should be expected after application of a transcutaneous electrode before values stabilize. This is associated with:
electrode calibration
capillary dilatation
barometric pressure equilibration
cerebral blood perfusion
For a pt. receiving noninvasive ventilation through a dual-limb circuit, an increase in which of the following will most likely reduce the respiratory effort associated with spontaneous breathing?
inspiratory time
ramp time
PEEP
pressure support
A RT on a Medical Emergency Team is directed to maximize Fi02 for a pt. who is not intubated. Which of the following should the therapist select?
CPAP of 10 cmH20, Fi02 of 0.50
NPPV of 15/5 cmH20, Fi02 of 0.50
NRB, flowmeter on flush
simple oxygen mask, flowmeter on 6 L/min
The following data are available for a pt. receiving VC, A/C ventilation:

Fi02: 0.50
VT: 500 mL
PEEP: 10 cmH20

Lab results are as follows:
Pv02: 30 mmHg
Pa02: 75 mmHg
Sp02: 91%

Which of the following should a RT recommend?
increase the VT
decrease the PEEP to 5 cmH20
change the Fi02 to 0.75
measure cardiac output
A RT is reviewing the medical record of an infant to determine whether any respiratory care is indicated in the home. Which of the following suggests the need for home apnea monitoring?
albuteorl aerosol every 4 hours PRN
caffeine citrate daily
APGAR scores of 3 and 4
oxygen by cannula at 0.25 L/min
Which of the following is the most common side effect of aerosolized albuterol?
tremor
tachypnea
dilated pupils
bradycardia
Which of the following should a RT emphasize as a critical infection control step to a pt. who will administer aerosol therapy at home?
disinfecting equipment every 96 hours
boiling the nebulizer cup each day
handwashing before and after therapy
soaking nondisposable equipmetn in 50% alcohol
A pt. who is a victim of a residential fire is brought to the ED and is receiving oxygen by nasal cannula at 8 lpm. The Sp02 is 100%. ABG results are as follows:

pH 7.30
PaC02: 30 torr
Pa02: 200 torr
HC03: 14 mEq/L
Sa02: 100%
O2Hb: 78%
C02Hb: 21%
HB 14.5 g/dL

A RT should recommend:
changing to 0.50 with an air-entrainment mask system
administering an Fi02 of 0.60 with a HHFNC
maintaining current oxygen therapy
switching to a NRB at 15 L/min
The most commonly ised bedside measurement to monitor the progression of ventilatory impairment in a patient with Guillain-Barre syndrome is:
capnometry
ABG
VC
peak flow
A pt. complains of a productive cough that started approximately 4 months ago. The pt. most likely has:
asthma
pneumonia
emphysema
bronchitis
Which of the following should be used to most accurately assess oxygen saturation in a pt. with suspected smoke inhalation?
blood gas analyzer
capnometer
hemoximeter
pulse oximeter
Given a normal pH, a Sp02 of 90% should be associated with a Pa02 of approximately:
48 torr
61 torr
74 torr
87 torr
A RT is unable to pass a 14 Fr. suction catheter through a 7.0 mm ID nasotracheal tube. Repositioning the head of the pt. does not allow passage of the catheter. Which of the following should the RT do?
instill normal saline into the tube
recommend reintubation orally
suction with a 12 Fr catheter
perform subglottic suction
A pt. is suspected of having an upper airway obstruction. Which of the following tests should a RT recommend to detect this abnormality?
FEF 25-75%
nitrogen washout
RV/TLC
flow-volume loop
A pt. with an IBW of 55 kg is receiving mechanical ventilation. The patient's blood gas results and parameters during VC, A/C ventilation are below:

Fi02: 0.70 pH: 7.35
Mandatory rate: 14 C02: 35 torr
VT: 500 mL Pa02: 40 torr
PEEP: 5 cmH20 HC03: 19 mEq/L

The RT should recommend:
changing to SIMV mode
increasing to 10 cmH20 PEEP
changing to 5 cmH20 CPAP
increasing the VT to 550 mL
Home overnight oximetry is used to assess the need for:
polysomnography
mechanical ventilation
trans-esophageal echo
CVP monitoring
While testing the proper function of a flow-inflating bag, a RT notes the bag does not fully inflate with occlusion of the patient connector. Which of the following may be the cause of the problem?
malfunctioning inlet valve
excessive oxygen flow
open flow control valve
missing oxygen reservoir
Three liters of air are injected into a spirometer from a certified volume standard syringe. The measured value is 2.6 L. Which of the following should the RT conclude?
the plunger was pushed too slowly
spirometer is raedy for patient testing
the time scale was incorrectly claibrated
calibration is outside the accepted range
A 65 y/o pt. with congestive heart failure is receiving 10 cmH20 CPAP and an Fi02 of 0.60. ABG results are:

pH: 7.41
PaC02: 40 torr
P02: 150 torr
HC03: 25 mEq/L

Which of the following should a RT conclude?
the patient is acidotic
hyperoxemia is present
the patient is tachypneic
hypocapnia is present
A RTcollects the following data on a 58 y/o male who has been receivin VC, A/C ventilation for the past 24 hours following thoracic surgery:
MIP -32 cmH20
Exhaled VT: 420 mL

The pt. is alert and oriented. He has a Sp02 of 98% while receiving ventilation with the following settings:
Fi02: 0.40
Mandatory rate: 12
VT: 600 mL
The best weaning method for this patient is:
a spontaneous breathing trial
SIMV mode, mandatory rate 14, and set tidal volume 600 mL
PS ventilation at 20 cmH20
PC ventilation at 25 cmH20, and mandatory rate of 12
A 26 y/o pt. who weighs 80 kg (176 lbs) was injured in a motor vehical crash. The pt. was intubated with a 6.0 mmID ETT by EMS. Upon admission to teh ED, VC, A/C ventilation is started. The pt. has peak airway pressures of 40 cmH20, increased work of breathing, and is dyssynchronous with the vent. A RT should recommend:
increasing the peak inspiratory flow
raising the tidal volume
performing a bronchoscopy
reintubating with a larger endotracheal tube
A 24 y/o female presents with a history of nasal stuffiness, episodes of daytime dyspnea, and a cough that occurs every summer. Which of the following drug classifications should a RT recommend to control the patient's symptoms?
leukotriene inhibitor
IgE immunoglobulin antagonist
beta-adrenergicagonist
anticholinergic
An adult victim of a burn injury is being monitored in the ICU. Pt. data are as follows:
Pv02: 45 torr
PCWP: 4 mmHg
Mean PAP: 11 mmHg
CVP: 4 cmH20
Urine output: 5 ml/hr
A RT should conclude the pt. is:
hypovolemic
fluid overloaded
clinically stable
acidotic
A RT is assisting a physician perform a tracheotomy on a pt. who is receiving PC ventilation. The therapist observes an increased HR, decreased exhaled VT, and distant BS over the right chest. This information is most indicative of a:
circuit leak
right pneumothorax
kink in the vent circuit
right mainstem intubation
A RT is called to deliver a 2nd dose of 5 mg albuterol to a pt. with acute asthma. The pt. had audible wheezing after the first treatment 20 minutes ago. After the 2nd treatment, auscultation reveals markedly diminished BS. Which of the following should a RT recommend?
begin continuous nebulized bronchodilator therapy at 10 mg every hour
continue to administer 5 mg albuterol every 2 hours
decrease albuterol dose to 2.5 mg every 2 hours
change to iprotropium bromide 0.5 mg every 6 hours
A RT observes the following chest radiograph:


Which of the following are evident:
trach tube pneumothorax pleural effusion chest tube
no, yes, yes, no
yes, no, no, yes
no, yes, no, yes
yes, no, yes, no
The diagram below show the results of FVC maneuvers by a patient before and after an albuterol treatment:


Which of the following should a RT recommend NEXT?
bronchoscopy for airway obstruction
non-invasive positive prssure ventilation
inhaled bronchodilator therapy
supplemental oxygen therapy
A pt. was diagnosed wtih bronchiectasis 3 years ago. The pt. reports increased cough and difficulty clearing secretions for the past 4 weeks. A chest radiograph shows cavitary disease. Which of the following should the RT recommend?
transtracheal aspiration
airway clearance therapy
bronchodilator therapy
respiratory isolation
At the beginning of exhalation, the sharp rise in exhaled C02 on a capnographic tracing represents:
washout of dead space
tidal volume
ventilation/perfusion mismatch
pulmonary shunting
Which of the following is the most effective aerosolized bronchodilator for a pt. with an acute asthma exacerbation?
albuterol
ipratropium bromide (atrovent)
salmeterol (serevent)
tiotropium (spiriva)
The following pt. data are obtained:
Ca02: 12 vol%
Pv02: 30 torr
Sv02: 60%
Hb: 10 g/dL
The patient's C(a-v)02 is approximately:
1.20 mL/dL
3.87 mL/dL
4.80 mL/dL
8.13 mL/dL
A RT determined a pt. receiving mechanical ventilation developed auto-PEEP due to dynamic airflow obstruction. Which of the following should the therapist do?
Add an inspiratory plateau
add mechanical dead space
decrease the mandatory rate
decrease the inspiratory flow
A 59 y/o pt. with COPD is seen in the pulmonary clnical for a routine appointment. The results of an ABG drawn while the pt. is breathing room air are below:
pH 7.41
PaCo2: 55 torr
Pa02: 41 torr
HC03: 35 mEq/L
Which of the following is the most appropriate NEXT step?
schedule polysomnography
initiate supplemental oxygen
perform a 6 minute walk test
coach on deep breathing
The following data are collected for a pediatric pt. receiving VC ventilation:
VT: 200 mL
plateau pressure: 10 cmH20
Peak pressure: 20 cmH20
PEEP: 5 cmH20
What is the static compliance in mL/cmH20?
30
20
50
40
The following pulmonary function results are obtained for a patient:
Predicted Observed % Predicted
FVC: 5.90 3.40 57.6
FEV1: 4.00 0.50 12.5
FEV1/FVC: 70 14 --------
FEF 25-75%: 4.50 0.77 17.0
TLC: 7.30 8.40 115.0

A RT should recommend a treatment plan for:
severe obstructive lung disease
severe restrictive lung disease
mild obstructive lung disease
mild restrictive lung disease
While receiving postural drainage in the head-down position, a pt. becomes dyspneic due to severe prolonged coughing. A RT should:
perform percussion
turn the patient
administer oxygen
place the pt. in Flowler's position
A 20 y/o pt. with an acute asthma exacerbation is receiving 2.5 mg of albuterol by hand held nebulizer. During the treatment, the pt. complains of palpitations and has a HR of 140. Which of the following should the RT recommend for the next treatment?
change to fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair HFA)
change to 0.63 mg of levalbuterol (xopenex)
change to 3 puffs of beclomethasone dipropionate (vanceril)
administer the treatment with saline
Which of the following medications should a RT use to anesthetize a patient's airway prior to a flexible bronchoscopy procedure?
lidocaine HCL (xylocaine)
midazolam HCL (Versed)
ketamine
vecuronium bromide (Norcuron)
A pt. in the ICU who is receiving VC ventilation has a steady increase in the peak inspiratory pressure over a 12 hour shift. The pt. has developed a fever and purulent pulmonary secretions. Which of the following should a RT recommend FIRST?
perform HFCWO
Replace the ETT
Initiate bronchodilator therapy
Obtain a sputum Gram stainA 22 y/o
A 22 y/o pt. with a history of intermittent wheezing has the following pulmonary function test results:
Pre-bronchodilator Post-bronchodilator
FEV1 (% predicted) 84 88
FVC (% predicted) 85 86
FEV1/FVC (%) 84 86
Peak flow (% predicted) 98 96

Which of the following should a RT recommend?
lung volume measurements
inhalation challenge
DLCO testing
polysomnography
Spontaneous breathing trials with a T-piece have been initiated for a 50 y/o pt. who has been receiving mechanical ventilation for 4 weeks. With each trial, the pt. becomes agitated, dyspneic, and tachypneic, and must be returned to the ventilator. Which of the following should the RT recommend?
sedate the patient
terminate weaning trials
extubate the patient
initiate pressure support mode
A premature neonate with respiratory distress syndrome receives the first dose of surfactant replacement therapy. Two hours later, the neonate's Fi02 requirements have increased from 0.35 to 0.70. Which of the following should a RT recommend FIRST?
chest radiograph
second dose of surfactant
high frequency ventilation
inhaled nitric oxide
Which of the following should be recommended to determine the site of bleeding in a pt. with hemoptysis?
nasotracheal suctioning
bronchoscopy
thoracentesis
V/Q scan
Data belwo were obtained while an adult pt. was receiving VC ventilation with an Fi02 of 0.50:

1300 1315 1330 1345
PEEP: 5 10 15 20
Sp02: 75 90 94 95
Staic compliance: 20 40 60 55
BP: 140/90 130/90 120/80 110/80

Which of the following levels of PEEP should a RT choose?
5 cmH20
10 cmH20
15 cmH20
20 cmH20
Monitoring serum electrolytes is indicated in patients who are receiving:
surfactants
sedatives
analgesics
diuretics
While breathing spontaneously, a 54 kg (120 lb) female has a RR of 30 and a VT of 200 mL. After a sedative was administered, her RR decreased to 10 and her VT increased to 600 mL. Which of the following ventilatory parameters increased?
minute ventilation
alveolar ventilation
mechanical dead space ventilation
anatomic dead space ventilation
For a spontaneously breathing pt. , which of the following will provide an elevated baseline pressure during inspiration and expiration?
IPPB
PEP
CPAP
IPAP
After obtaining an ABG sample, a RT should handle the sample by:
adding heparin
shaking the sample continuously
removing all air from the syringe
placing the sample on an ice bath
A 77 y/o male pt. is scheduled to undergo open heart surgery. Preoperative spirometry results show the patient's FEV1 is 80% of predicted and the FEV1/FVC is 83%, indicating:
high risk for postoperative pulmonary complications
low risk for postoperative pulmonary complications
the pt. has obstructive lung disease
the pt. has restrictive lung disease
A gas is saturated with 100% relative humidity at 32.3 C (90F). As the gas cools to 26.7 C (80F), the relative humidity will:
increase by 10%
remain 100% and excess water will rain out
decrease as a result of cooling of the gas
decrease as water condenses
Following placement of an 8.0 mm ID trach tube, how much air should be placed into the cuff?
a minimum of 8 mL
enough to produce a pressure of 35 cmH20
enough to prevent a leak at peak inspiration
enough to provide tension in the pilot balloon
An adult pt. is receiving mechancial ventilation. Which of the following should be recommended to improve oxygenation and recruit collapsed alveoli?
PEEP
SIMV mode
mechanical dead space
in-line suction system
When administering dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) with a hand-held nebulizer, a RT notes a pt. is developing marked congestion with copious sputum production. The therapist's most appropriate action is to pause the treatment and:
dilute dornase alfa with saline
allow the pt. to clear secretions
increase the dornase alfa dose
contact the physician
An adult pt. has a pulse of 142, a RR of 24, and a BP of 78/55. When examining the patient's chest, the RT notes an absence of BS in the left chest with a hyperresonant percussion note. Which of the following should the RT recommend FIRST?
insert a chest tube in the left chest
obtain a chest radiograph
insert a 14 gauge needle in the left chest
obtain arterial blood gas results
After SIMV is initiated, the following pt. data are obtained:
Fi02: 0.40 pH: 7.27
Mandatory rate: 8 PaC02: 55 torr
Total rate: 8 Pa02: 94 torr
Tidal Volume: 550 mL HC03: 24 mEq/L
PEEP: 8 cmH20
Which of the following should a RT recommend?
maintain current settings
increase the mandatory rate to 12
decrease the Fi02 to 0.30
decrease the Vt to 400 mL
A pt. is receiving mechanical ventilation with 5 cmH20 PEEP. The PEEP is increased to 15 cmH20. Which of the following indicates an adverse effect of the PEEP change?
bradycardia
increased peripheral perfusion
increased FRC
hypotension
The following data are obtained for a pt. who is receiving VC ventilation with a VT of 600 mL:

10 am 12 pm
Peak airway pressure 38 cmH20 45 cmH20
Plateau pressure 34 cmH20 34 cmH20

This information indicates:
increased air trapping
increased airways resistance
decreased inspiratory flow
decreased static compliance
During nasotracheal suctioning, a patient exhibits a gag reflex but does not cough. Watery secretions
are aspirated through the catheter. Which of the following should the RT do before repeating the
procedure?
A. insert an oropharyngeal airway
B. place the patient in the sniffing position
C. obtain a larger suction catheter
D. increase the suction pressure
Which of the following should a RT use to determine a neonate’s gestational age?
A. APGAR
B. Glasgow
C. Ballard
D. Silverman
A pt. receiving mechanical ventilation by a portable ventilator is being transported from the ED to
radiology. Which of the following is required during transport?
A. bag valve resuscitator
B. point of care blood gas analyzer
C. demand valve respirator
D. crash cart
A RT is calibrating a helium analyzer. What should the analyzer read when calibrated on air?
A. 0%
B. 79%
C. 100%
D. 21%

Which of the following drugs is appropriate for the sedation of a 30 y/o patient with status
asthmaticus and hypotension who is receiving mechanical ventilation?
A. Cisatracurium (nimbex)
B. Lorazepam (Ativan)
C. Vecuronium bromide (norcuron)
D. Morphine
A physician will be sedating a patient for a procedure and asks a RT to monitor the patient’s
ventilation. The therapist should select a:
A. pulse oximeter
B. colorimetric C02 detection device
C. capnometer
D. transcutaneous oxygen monitor
The standard frequency for dosing of inhaled tiotropium (spiriva) is every:
A. 24 hours
B. 4 hours
C. 12 hours
D. 8 hours
A pt. with severe COPD is receiving PC, A/C ventilation on 0.30. The pt. becomes
tachypneic and is apprehensive, mottled, and hypertensive. Auscultation reveals distant breath sounds
on the right as compared to the left. Tracheal deviation to the left is observed. A RT should
recommend evaluation for a potential:
A. mucous plug
B. myocardial infarction
C. pulmonary embolism
D. pneumothorax
A RT intends to change the I:E during VC ventilation. Flow is constant during inspiration. Which of
the following can be adjusted to accomplish this change?
Volume RR sensitivity inspiratory flow
A. Yes yes yes no
B. Yes yes no yes
C. Yes no yes yes
D. No yes yes yes
When reviewing progress notes for a pt. a RT notes that a provider has recommended changes to the
patient’s treatment plan. Which of the following should the RT do NEXT?
A. initiate the changes immediately
B. confer with the patient’s nurse about when to implement the changes
C. check for new RT orders
D. review the planned changes with the shift supervisor
What is the approximate total flow that will be delivered from a 40% air-entrainment mask receiving
12 L/min of oxygen?
A. 12 L/min
B. 48 L/min
C. 52 L/min
D. 72 L/min
A RT is asked to position a pt. for orotracheal intubation. The RT should place the patient’s head:
A. in the sniffing position
B. with the neck hyperextended
C. tilted forward toward the chest
D. turned to the right
A pt. has been receiving mechanical ventilation through a tracheostomy tube for 16 days. The
patient begins to thrash about in the bed following withdrawal of a drug-induced coma. The
patient’s tracheostomy tube has become dislodged. Following appropriate sedation, the RT should:
A. obtain an ABG sample
B. perform nasal intubation
C. reinsert the tracheostomy tube
D. initiate oxygen therapy and observe the patient
A pt.’s BP is monitored by an appropriately positioned arterial catheter transducer. The transducer is
mounted on an IV pole that is not attached to the bed. The bed is lowered to permit routine patient
care. How will this affect the measured BP?
A. Systolic Increased Diastolic increased
B. Systolic Increased Diastolic decreased
C. Systolic Decreased Diastolic decreased
A. Systolic Decreased Diastolic increased
A 21 y/o male patient experiencing a acute asthma exacerbation is intubated and receiving
mechanical ventilation. There is a sudden increase in airway pressures. The pt. is hemodynamically
stable and breath sounds are clear, but significantly decreased on the right. Which of the following
should the RT recommend?
A. turn the pt. onto his left side
B. withdraw the ETT 4 cm
C. order a portable chest radiograph
D. add 5 cmH20 PEEP
Which of the following values for arterial carbon dioxide tension is consistent with alveolar
hyperventilation?
A. 30 torr
B. 40 torr
C. 50 torr
D. 60 torr
Which of the following drugs is most appropriate to paralyze a sedated 30 y/o pt. with status
asthmaticus who is receiving continuous mechanical ventilation?
A. rocuronium bromide (zemuron)
B. morphine sulfate
C. midazolam (versed)
D. succinylcholine chloride (anectine)
A 21 y/o man arrives in the ED after rescue from a house fire. Physical examination reveals burns on
the upper chest and face, and marked edema of the face and oropharynx. Results on an ABG sample
obtained while the pt. was breathing air are as follows:
Ph 7.55 PaC02 26 torr Pa02 105 torr HC03 22 mEq/L
Which of the following should a RT recommend?
A. Intubate the patient
B. Sedate the patient
C. Initiate levalbuterol therapy
D. Administer cool aerosol therapy
Moderate stridor with retraction sis noted immediately after extubation of a pt. A RT should
recommend:
A. cool bland aerosol therapy
B. inhaled steroids
C. nebulize racemic epinephrine
D. A nasopharyngeal airway
For which of the following are peak expiratory flow measurements indicated?
A. establish readiness for weaning
B. evaluate lung compliance
C. determine ventilatory reserve
D. monitor airways obstruction
A pt.’s V/Q scan indicates an excess of ventilation compared to perfusion in the left lower lobe. These results suggest:
A. right to left shunt
B. pulmonary embolism
C. pneumonia
D. hemothorax
Which of the following is characteristic during VC ventilation?
A. inspiration ends after delivery of a preset volume
B. inspiration ends after the patient exhales a targeted volume
C. pressure is held constant during inspiration until a present volume is delivered
D. pressure is held constant during inspiration until the patient exhales a targeted volume