For most people, breathing is a simple and natural activity. But for patients with respiratory illnesses, the process can become dangerous and even life-threatening. Respiratory therapists coordinate with doctors and nurses to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide range of lung-related disorders. They help patients with conditions including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema; chronic heart failure and lung disease; and respiratory infections like pneumonia. They also administer tests, monitor patient’s breath and operate ventilation machines, and educate patients and their families on managing their illness.
While most RTs work in hospitals, some may be employed in medical clinics or private practices. Regardless of setting, all jobs require critical thinking skills and the ability to make an accurate assessment of a patient's needs. Additionally, being able to read charts and understand the latest medical research is essential to the position.
The first step in becoming a Respiratory Therapist is earning a degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program. Students can choose from a number of programs, including those offered online, but should seek out one that is CoARC accredited. This accreditation makes it easier to become licensed as an RT in your state.
The next step is finding a job as an RT in your field of interest. Many people choose to work in hospitals, where they are involved with code/rapid response teams. These teams perform a variety of tasks, including establishing ventilation support and performing pulmonary function tests. They also manage ventilators and administer medications.
In addition to providing direct patient care, RTs also provide consultative services to physicians and other healthcare professionals. They can help patients with a variety of diseases, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. In emphysema, the walls of lung cells lose their elasticity, making it difficult for the lungs to empty themselves. In asthma, RTs can teach patients breathing exercises and provide them with medication to control symptoms.
The RRT is a team of nurses and respiratory therapists that respond to medical emergencies in hospitals. The team can be activated by anyone, including patients or family members. They perform proactive rounds looking for the early stages of patient deterioration and are a clinical resource for staff.
The team is responsible for the implementation of COVID-19 response strategies and procedures. They may also be asked to conduct other responsibilities, such as assessing use of personal protective equipment in healthcare facilities and developing SOPs. In addition, they will be expected to train healthcare workers in infection prevention and control.
Upon completion of the required educational and clinical hours, CRTs are eligible to take the national licensing exam. If they pass the test, they will be awarded the RRT credential by the NBRC. Those who choose to pursue specialty certifications can take advantage of the RRT-ACCS exam, which opens new doors in intensive care fields. The NBRC also offers free practice exams for the TMC and CSE. In addition, it sells official NBRC Self-Assessment Exams (SAE) for $50 each.
Prepare for the RRT Exam exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
Try these questions from our free RRT Exam practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
A patient has the following ABG: pH 7.35, PaCO2 55 mmHg, HCO3 30 mEq/L. This result is MOST consistent with:
Answer: B. Chronic respiratory acidosis (compensated)
A near-normal pH with elevated PaCO2 and elevated HCO3 indicates chronic respiratory acidosis with full metabolic compensation (1 mEq/L HCO3 rise per 10 mmHg PaCO2 rise).
A patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome has FVC declining toward 15 mL/kg. The appropriate action is:
Answer: C. Begin prophylactic intubation
The '20-30-40 rule' (FVC -30 cmH2O, MEP <40 cmH2O) triggers prophylactic intubation before respiratory failure occurs.
A patient is receiving aerosolized albuterol. The therapist notes the patient's HR increases from 78 to 118 bpm. What is the BEST course of action?
Answer: B. Discontinue the treatment and notify the physician
A HR > 20% above baseline or exceeding 110–120 bpm is a criterion to stop albuterol therapy and report to the physician.
What is the purpose of a peak flow meter in respiratory care?
Answer: D. Evaluating lung function
A peak flow meter measures the maximum airflow a person can generate, helping to monitor changes in lung function.