The Registry Examination System was developed to objectively measure essential tasks required of advanced respiratory therapists and to set uniform standards for measuring such knowledge.
The RRT exam has two parts: the written part and the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) part:
The Written Registry Examination for Advanced Respiratory Therapists consists of 115 multiple-choice questions (100 scored questions and 15 pretest questions) covering the recall, application and analysis of patient data, equipment and therapeutic procedures. Written Registry candidates will be given two hours to complete the examination.
The Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE) consists of 11 separate patient management problems (10 scored problems and one pretest problem).
Patient data evaluation and recommendations
Review existing data in the patient record
Collect and evaluate additional pertinent clinical information
Recommend procedures to obtain additional data
Equipment application and cleanliness
Select, assemble, use, and troubleshoot equipment
Ensure infection control
Perform quality control procedures for blood gas analyzers, co-oximeters, and sampling devices; oxygen analyzers; pulmonary function equipment; mechanical ventilators; noninvasive monitors [e.g., transcutaneous]; record and monitor qc data using accepted statistical methods
Therapeutic procedure initiation and modification
Maintain records and communicate information
Maintain a patent airway including the care of artificial airways
Remove bronchopulmonary secretions
Achieve adequate respiratory support
Evaluate and monitor patient’s objective and subjective responses to respiratory care
Independently modify treatment techniques based on the patient’s response
Recommend modifications in the respiratory care plan based on the patient’s response
Determine the appropriateness of the prescribed respiratory care plan and recommend modifications when indicated
Initiate, conduct, or modify respiratory care techniques in an emergency setting
Act as an assistant to the physician performing special procedures
Initiate and conduct pulmonary rehabilitation and home care within the prescription
