Practice Test Geeks(CRE) Certified Respiratory Educator Practice Test
← All CRE Flashcard Decks

Respiratory Therapy & Intervention Techniques Flashcards

7 cards from real CRE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Respiratory Therapy & Intervention Techniques flashcards as text

  1. When setting up a small-volume nebulizer (SVN), what is the optimal flow rate to drive the nebulizer for most medications?

    Answer: 6–8 L/min

    A flow rate of 6–8 L/min is recommended to produce the optimal particle size (1–5 µm) for alveolar deposition.

  2. A patient with COPD receives ipratropium bromide via MDI. What is the primary mechanism of action of this bronchodilator?

    Answer: Anticholinergic (muscarinic) blockade

    Ipratropium is an anticholinergic agent that blocks muscarinic receptors, reducing bronchoconstriction caused by parasympathetic stimulation.

  3. Which chest physiotherapy technique uses a mechanical device applied externally to the thorax to generate oscillatory pressure and mobilize secretions?

    Answer: High-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO)

    HFCWO devices (e.g., the Vest) apply rapid compressions to the chest wall to thin and mobilize mucus toward the central airways.

  4. A mechanically ventilated patient has a plateau pressure of 32 cmH₂O and a PEEP of 8 cmH₂O. What is the driving pressure?

    Answer: 24 cmH₂O

    Driving pressure = plateau pressure − PEEP = 32 − 8 = 24 cmH₂O; values above 15 cmH₂O are associated with higher mortality.

  5. During heliox therapy for upper airway obstruction, which helium-to-oxygen mixture is most commonly used when the patient requires supplemental oxygen?

    Answer: 70:30 He:O₂

    70:30 He:O₂ (70% helium, 30% oxygen) provides adequate oxygen delivery while maintaining enough helium to reduce turbulent flow.

  6. Which parameter best reflects the work the respiratory muscles must perform against intrinsic PEEP (auto-PEEP) in a spontaneously breathing patient on mechanical ventilation?

    Answer: The trigger effort required to initiate inspiration

    Auto-PEEP raises the threshold the patient must overcome to trigger a breath; excess effort to trigger indicates significant auto-PEEP.

  7. A patient with status asthmaticus is placed on mechanical ventilation with a respiratory rate of 12 and an I:E ratio of 1:4. Why is the prolonged expiratory time important?

    Answer: It allows full exhalation to minimize air trapping and auto-PEEP

    Prolonged expiratory time allows adequate emptying of obstructed airways, reducing dynamic hyperinflation and the risk of tension pneumothorax.