CRT (IJCAHPO) case studies
CRT · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential is awarded through the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) upon passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination, which objectively measures the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required of respiratory therapists at entry into practice. The exam is intended for graduates of accredited respiratory therapy education programs and other candidates who meet the NBRC's admission requirements. The CRT case studies are 5 cases and about 2,759 words.
1Ventilator Dyssynchrony After Sedation Bolus
A 58-year-old man with ARDS (P/F ratio 140 on PEEP 12 cm H2O, FiO2 0.55) is ventilated in volume-control, 6 mL/kg predicted body weight (420 mL), rate 22, inspiratory time 0.9 s. He was calm, but 10 minutes after a propofol bolus for a line placement his respiratory drive dropped.
655 words, about 3 min2Pediatric Asthma: When the Usual Nebulizer Isn't Enough
A 7-year-old (22 kg) with a known asthma history arrives in moderate-to-severe distress: RR 34, SpO2 89% on room air, speaking in single words, suprasternal retractions, diffuse expiratory wheeze with poor air movement at the bases. He received albuterol 2.5 mg via small-volume nebulizer and ipratropium 0.5 mg 15 minutes ago with minimal change.
591 words, about 3 min3COPD Exacerbation With Rising CO2: Oxygen and NIV Decisions
A 68-year-old woman with severe COPD (FEV1 32% predicted, 2 exacerbations in the past year) presents with 3 days of worsening dyspnea and purulent sputum. Vitals: RR 28, HR 108, BP 138/84, SpO2 82% on room air, temp 38.1°C.
524 words, about 3 min4Postoperative Hypoxemia: Atelectasis vs. Something Worse
A 62-year-old woman, BMI 34, is 18 hours post open abdominal surgery. She is on 3 L nasal cannula with SpO2 90%, RR 24, HR 112, BP 128/76, temp 38.4°C.
507 words, about 3 min5Tracheostomy Weaning: Pressure Support vs. T-Piece
A 45-year-old man with a traumatic brain injury has a tracheostomy after 3 weeks of ventilation. He is awake, follows commands, cough is strong, secretions moderate.
482 words, about 2 min