RRT RRT Mechanical Ventilation 2

Question 1

During a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT), which finding suggests the patient is NOT ready for extubation?

Accepted Answer

Rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) of 120

Answer

An RSBI (f/VT) above 105 indicates a high likelihood of extubation failure due to inefficient, rapid, and shallow breathing.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of adding pressure support in SIMV mode?

Accepted Answer

To overcome the work of breathing imposed by the endotracheal tube and circuit

Answer

Pressure support in SIMV reduces the inspiratory work of breathing through the high-resistance ETT during spontaneous breaths.

Question 3

Which parameter is used to calculate the driving pressure in mechanical ventilation?

Accepted Answer

Plateau pressure minus PEEP

Answer

Driving pressure = plateau pressure − PEEP, reflecting the tidal stress placed on the respiratory system with each breath.

Question 4

In pressure-controlled ventilation, what happens to tidal volume if lung compliance decreases?

Accepted Answer

Tidal volume decreases

Answer

In pressure-controlled mode, the driving pressure is fixed; decreased compliance results in smaller tidal volumes delivered per breath.

Question 5

What is the best initial ventilator setting for FiO2 when initiating mechanical ventilation?

Accepted Answer

1.0 (100%), then titrate down

Answer

Starting at FiO2 1.0 ensures adequate oxygenation during the initial unstable period; it is then titrated to the lowest level maintaining SpO2 ≥92%.

RRT Exam Practice Test