RPSGT Best Practices & Methodologies 3

Question 1

According to the AASM recommended (1B) hypopnea scoring rule, what percentage reduction in airflow signal amplitude is required?

Accepted Answer

30%

Answer

The AASM recommended rule scores a hypopnea when the airflow signal drops ≥30% from baseline, associated with ≥3% oxygen desaturation or an arousal.

Question 2

A central apnea is characterized by cessation of airflow for ≥10 seconds with what respiratory pattern?

Accepted Answer

Absent respiratory effort throughout the event

Answer

Central apneas show absent respiratory effort (both thoracic and abdominal excursion cease) throughout the event, distinguishing them from obstructive apneas.

Question 3

During CPAP titration, a patient continues to have obstructive apneas at 8 cmH₂O. What is the typical next pressure adjustment step?

Accepted Answer

Increase pressure by 1 cmH₂O

Answer

CPAP titration protocols typically increase pressure in 1 cmH₂O increments when obstructive apneas persist, allowing adequate time to assess response.

Question 4

What criteria must be met on a diagnostic split-night study before transitioning to PAP titration according to AASM protocols?

Accepted Answer

AHI ≥15 after at least 120 minutes with ≥90 minutes of PAP titration remaining

Answer

AASM criteria for split-night studies require AHI ≥40 (or 20–40 with extenuating events) after ≥2 hours diagnostic, ensuring ≥3 hours remain for adequate PAP titration.

Question 5

A respiratory effort-related arousal (RERA) is characterized by which of the following?

Accepted Answer

A sequence of breaths lasting ≥10 seconds with flattened inspiratory airflow leading to arousal

Answer

A RERA is a sequence of breaths ≥10 seconds showing flattened inspiratory airflow or increasing respiratory effort culminating in an arousal, not meeting apnea or hypopnea criteria.

RPSGT Exam Practice Test

RPSGT Exam Practice Test

RPSGT Best Practices & Methodologies 3