CRE Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CRE facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which inhaled medication requires the patient to rinse their mouth after each use to prevent oral candidiasis? → Fluticasone (inhaled corticosteroid)
2. Which finding on the volume-time curve of a spirometry maneuver indicates premature termination of effort? → No volume plateau and forced expiratory time less than 6 seconds
3. Why is a thorough physical examination essential in respiratory care? → It provides essential information for diagnosing and planning care
4. A systematic review differs from a narrative review primarily because it: → Uses predetermined criteria to identify and critically appraise studies
5. In CRE practice, what is a needs assessment? → A systematic process to identify gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
6. The primary purpose of a control group in a randomized clinical trial is to: → Provide a comparison baseline for the experimental intervention
7. What is tidal volume in respiratory physiology? → The amount of air exchanged during normal breathing
8. What part of the respiratory system is responsible for gas exchange? → Alveoli
9. According to ATS/ERS spirometry quality criteria, what is the minimum number of acceptable maneuvers required to obtain reproducible results? → 3
10. What is the role of the mucous membranes in the respiratory system? → To trap dust and pathogens, protecting the lungs
11. FEF25-75% (forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of FVC) primarily reflects the function of which airways? → Small peripheral airways
12. In CRE practice, what is a corrective action plan? → A documented strategy to address identified compliance deficiencies and prevent recurrence
13. Mucolytics like N-acetylcysteine reduce mucus viscosity primarily by: → Breaking disulfide bonds in mucoproteins
14. A valved holding chamber (spacer) used with an MDI primarily improves therapy by: → Improving drug deposition in the lower airways
15. In CRE practice, what is a needs assessment? → A systematic process to identify gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
16. What is the accepted therapeutic serum concentration range for theophylline? → 10–20 mcg/mL
17. A patient using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) should wait how long between puffs to ensure proper drug delivery? → 30 seconds to 1 minute
18. Why are physical exams important in patient assessment? → They help evaluate the respiratory condition and severity
19. The PICO framework used to formulate clinical research questions stands for: → Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome
20. 'External validity' in a research study refers to: → The ability to generalize findings to other populations and settings
21. What is the purpose of positive pressure ventilation? → It helps maintain adequate ventilation and oxygenation
22. In CRE practice, what is the purpose of a standard operating procedure (SOP)? → To document step-by-step instructions for routine tasks to ensure consistency and quality
23. In CRE practice, what is a needs assessment? → A systematic process to identify gaps between current conditions and desired outcomes
24. For a young child unable to coordinate inhalation with MDI actuation, the most appropriate device is: → MDI with valved holding chamber and face mask
25. Which spirometry measurement represents the volume of air forcefully exhaled during the first second of a maximal forced expiratory maneuver? → FEV1
26. What does professional liability insurance protect a CRE practitioner against? → Financial loss from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in professional services
27. How does patient history impact treatment planning in respiratory care? → It provides essential data to create a personalized treatment plan
28. What is the role of the oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve? → It explains the relationship between oxygen and hemoglobin saturation
29. In CRE practice, what is a conflict of interest? → A situation where personal interests could compromise professional judgment or objectivity
30. What is the primary goal of patient assessment in respiratory care? → To evaluate respiratory status and guide interventions