What format does the ACCS exam use?

The ACCS exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice test delivered at Pearson VUE testing centers across the United States. Each question offers four answer choices with one correct response. The exam uses a linear format, meaning all candidates receive the same number of questions, and results are provided immediately after completion.

What topics does the ACCS exam cover?

The ACCS exam covers three main content areas: patient assessment, ventilation and oxygenation support, and therapeutic procedures. Specific topics include arterial blood gas interpretation, mechanical ventilation strategies, hemodynamic monitoring, ECMO, airway management, sepsis protocols, and pharmacology. Roughly half of questions focus on ventilatory support and critical care interventions.

Who is eligible to sit for the ACCS exam?

Candidates must hold an active RRT credential from the NBRC and meet one of two pathways: at least two years of clinical experience with a minimum of 3,000 hours caring for adult critically ill patients, or completion of an accredited adult critical care respiratory therapy education program within the past four years.

How do I register for the ACCS exam?

Registration is completed through the NBRC website at nbrc.org by creating an account, submitting an application, and paying the examination fee. Once the NBRC approves eligibility, candidates receive authorization to schedule their test date at any Pearson VUE testing center. Applications typically process within 10 business days.

How should I prepare for the ACCS exam?

Effective preparation includes reviewing the NBRC Detailed Content Outline, studying adult critical care textbooks like Egan's Fundamentals of Respiratory Care, and completing practice tests that mirror the exam format. Focus on mechanical ventilation modes, ABG interpretation, and ACLS protocols. Many candidates also attend AARC review courses or use Kettering and Lindsey Jones study materials.

How is the ACCS exam scored?

The ACCS exam uses a scaled scoring system ranging from raw correct answers converted to a standardized score. Candidates receive a pass or fail result along with performance feedback across content categories. The NBRC sets the cut score through criterion-referenced standard-setting, ensuring consistency across different test forms and administrations.

Can I retake the ACCS exam if I fail?

Yes, candidates who do not pass may retake the ACCS exam after a 30-day waiting period. A new application and full examination fee are required for each attempt. The NBRC allows unlimited retakes as long as eligibility requirements remain current, though reviewing weak content areas identified on the score report is strongly recommended.

ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialty) Test: Your Guide

Boost your ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialty) exam score with practice questions and detailed answer explanations. Track progress with instant feedback.

ACCS - Adult Critical Care Specialty By Dr. Alexandra KimJun 1, 202660 min read

ACCS (Adult Critical Care Specialty) Test: Your Guide

⏱️4 HoursTime Limit

📝170Questions

✅67%Pass Rate

💵$300Exam Fee

The ACCS certification is the gold standard for respiratory therapists working in critical care. Achieving this credential not only validates your expertise but also opens doors to higher ACCS salary potential and leadership roles in adult intensive care units.

Accs Adult Critical Care Specialty - Accs

ACCS Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the ACCS - Adult Critical Care Specialty exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

ACCS Infection Control and Sepsis Management

ACCS Exam Questions covering ACCS Infection Control and Sepsis Management. Master ACCS Test concepts for certification prep.

ACCS Neurological and Renal Care

Free ACCS Practice Test featuring ACCS Neurological and Renal Care. Improve your ACCS Exam score with mock test prep.

ACCS Cardiovascular Support

ACCS Mock Exam on Cardiovascular Support. ACCS Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

ACCS Clinical Knowledge and Skills

ACCS Test Prep for Clinical Knowledge and Skills. Practice ACCS Quiz questions and boost your score.

ACCS Critical Care Assessment

ACCS Questions and Answers on Critical Care Assessment. Free ACCS practice for exam readiness.

ACCS Ethics and Communication

ACCS Mock Test covering Ethics and Communication. Online ACCS Test practice with instant feedback.

ACCS Patient Management and Care

Free ACCS Quiz on Patient Management and Care. ACCS Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

ACCS Pharmacology

ACCS Practice Questions for Pharmacology. Build confidence for your ACCS certification exam.

ACCS Respiratory Management

ACCS Test Online for Respiratory Management. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

ACCS Technological and Procedural Proficiency

ACCS Study Material on Technological and Procedural Proficiency. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

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ACCS Exam Flashcards

Quick review for the NBRC ACCS certification

💊Which medication is commonly used for sedation in ICU patients on mechanical ventilation?

Propofol (Diprivan) or Dexmedetomidine (Precedex) are frequently used agents.

REVIEW ACCS QUESTIONS

🧪What is the normal range for central venous pressure (CVP)?

2 to 6 mmHg (or 4 to 12 cmH2O) is generally considered the normal range.

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🏥What is the Berlin Definition criteria for mild ARDS?

PaO2/FiO2 ratio between 200 and 300 mmHg with PEEP or CPAP ≥ 5 cmH2O.

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🩺What procedure is indicated for a tension pneumothorax?

Immediate needle decompression followed by chest tube insertion.

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ACCS EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

ACCS Exam Study Guide

Our ACCS study guide section breaks down essential information about the exam. Click through the tabs below to learn about the ACCS exam format, registration, and scoring.

What is the ACCS exam?	The ACCS exam (Adult Critical Care Specialty) is a credentialing examination administered by the NBRC for Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) who specialize in adult critical care.
Who is eligible for the ACCS exam?	To be eligible for the ACCS certification, you must hold the RRT credential. The NBRC also recommends at least one year of clinical experience in adult critical care.
Why should I take the ACCS test?	Earning the ACCS credential validates your specialized skills, enhances your professional credibility, and can lead to career advancement and increased ACCS salary potential.
Is the ACCS exam mandatory?	No, the ACCS exam is a voluntary specialty credential. However, many employers prefer or require it for advanced positions in intensive care units.

What is the ACCS exam?

The ACCS exam (Adult Critical Care Specialty) is a credentialing examination administered by the NBRC for Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRTs) who specialize in adult critical care.

Who is eligible for the ACCS exam?

To be eligible for the ACCS certification, you must hold the RRT credential. The NBRC also recommends at least one year of clinical experience in adult critical care.

Why should I take the ACCS test?

Earning the ACCS credential validates your specialized skills, enhances your professional credibility, and can lead to career advancement and increased ACCS salary potential.

Is the ACCS exam mandatory?

No, the ACCS exam is a voluntary specialty credential. However, many employers prefer or require it for advanced positions in intensive care units.

START ACCS REVIEWER QUIZ

ACCS Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

Expect to invest between $400 and $600 total for your ACCS credential, including the exam fee and preparation materials. Many employers offer reimbursement for certification costs.

ACCS CERTIFICATION PRACTICE TEST

ACCS Career Opportunities

The ACCS credential opens doors to specialized roles in high-acuity respiratory care.

🏥

ICU Respiratory Therapist

Manage complex ventilators and life support for critically ill adults in the Intensive Care Unit.

🚑

Critical

Care TransportProvide specialized respiratory care during ground or air transport of critically ill patients.

🚨

Trauma

Center RRTWork in high-paced trauma centers managing airways and ventilation for acute trauma victims.

👨‍🏫

Clinical Educator

Teach other therapists and staff about advanced adult critical care protocols and equipment.

👔

Shift Supervisor

Lead a team of respiratory therapists in a critical care setting, ensuring quality patient care.

FREE RRT ACCS PRACTICE TEST

ACCS Test Day Checklist

✓Two forms of ID
✓Admission ticket
✓Directions to center
✓Arrive 30 mins early
✓Leave electronics in car
✓Light jacket (layering)
✓Review weak topics
✓Confidence!

📄Free ACCS Practice Test PDF

Ready to Pass Your ACCS Exam?

Get started with our free practice questions and comprehensive study guide. The ACCS credential is within your reach.

ACCS Renewal Requirements

📅

Validity

5 Years

🎓

CEUs Required

30 Credits

💵

Renewal Fee

$125/yr

Ensure your ACCS renewal is smooth by tracking your CEUs annually. The NBRC offers a quarterly payment option for credential maintenance fees.

✅Pros

+Industry-recognized credential boosts your resume
+Higher earning potential (10-20% salary increase on average)
+Demonstrates commitment to professional development
+Opens doors to advanced career opportunities

❌Cons

−Exam preparation requires significant time investment (4-8 weeks)
−Certification fees can be $100-$400+
−May require continuing education to maintain
−Some employers may not require certification

ACCS Questions and Answers

About the Author

Dr. Alexandra KimPhD Professional Studies, CPLP, CPTD

Certified Professional Development Expert & Niche Certification Advisor

University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education

Dr. Alexandra Kim holds a PhD in Professional Studies from the University of Pennsylvania and is a Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) and Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD). With 17 years of corporate training and professional certification advisory experience, she helps professionals navigate specialized, emerging, and cross-industry certification programs.