RRT Respiratory Therapy 4

Question 1

A sputum Gram stain shows gram-positive diplococci. The most likely pathogen is:

Accepted Answer

Streptococcus pneumoniae

Answer

Gram-positive diplococci (paired cocci) are the hallmark morphology of Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common bacterial pneumonia pathogen.

Question 2

Which parameter BEST reflects a patient's work of breathing and respiratory muscle load during weaning?

Accepted Answer

Rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI)

Answer

RSBI (f/VT) > 105 breaths/min/L predicts weaning failure by reflecting the combination of high rate and low tidal volume from respiratory muscle fatigue.

Question 3

A patient with cystic fibrosis benefits MOST from which airway clearance technique using an oscillating PEP device?

Accepted Answer

Flutter valve therapy

Answer

Flutter (oscillating PEP) devices generate high-frequency oscillations that loosen mucus and maintain airway patency, making them effective in CF.

Question 4

In high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV), oxygenation is primarily controlled by adjusting:

Accepted Answer

Mean airway pressure (MAP)

Answer

In HFOV, mean airway pressure (MAP) determines lung volume and alveolar recruitment, which is the primary determinant of oxygenation.

Question 5

Which finding on a chest X-ray is MOST consistent with a right pleural effusion?

Accepted Answer

Blunting of the right costophrenic angle

Answer

Blunting of the costophrenic angle occurs when at least 150–200 mL of fluid accumulates in the pleural space.

RRT Exam Practice Test

RRT Exam Practice Test

RRT Respiratory Therapy 4