These RRT practice questions target pathology — including Asthma Triad, Respiratory Therapist. The complete RRT deck holds 1040 flashcards, 90 of them dedicated to this topic. Study the free samples below, then unlock the whole collection for a one-time $7.
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A 28-week GA neonate presents with grunting, nasal flaring, and retractions shortly after birth. CXR shows diffuse ground-glass opacities and air bronchograms. What is the primary pathophysiological defect?
Show answer →Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is primarily caused by surfactant deficiency (Type II pneumocytes). This leads to high surface tension, decreased lung compliance, and widespread atelectasis. Key NBRC Focus: RDS typically presents within minutes to hours of birth. The ground-glass appearance is pathognomonic. Strategy: Distinguish from Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN), which presents with streaky hilum and fluid in fissures and usually resolves in 24-72 hours.
What are the three hallmark pathological changes associated with the Asthma Triad during an acute exacerbation?
Show answer →1. Bronchoconstriction (smooth muscle contraction). 2. Mucosal Edema (inflammation of the airway walls). 3. Hypersecretion of thick, tenacious mucus (mucus plugging). NBRC Tip: Treatment must address all three: Beta-2 agonists for bronchoconstriction, Corticosteroids for edema/inflammation, and hydration/bronchial hygiene for mucus. On the exam, prioritize Albuterol first, but recognize that steroids take hours to work.
A patient with a massive PE requires mechanical ventilation. Why should the Respiratory Therapist be cautious about using high levels of PEEP in this specific patient?
Show answer →High PEEP increases intrathoracic pressure, which can further decrease venous return (preload) and increase Pulmonary Vascular Resistance (PVR). In PE, the right ventricle (RV) is already struggling against high afterload. Excessive PEEP can precipitate RV failure and cardiovascular collapse. Clinical Pearl: Use the minimum PEEP necessary to maintain oxygenation and avoid aggressive recruitment.
A patient with Guillain-Barré is being monitored in the ICU. Which specific physiological complication, beyond respiratory failure, is common in GBS and requires continuous cardiac monitoring?
Show answer →Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Dysfunction. This occurs in about 50% of GBS cases and causes cardiac arrhythmias (bradycardia, tachycardia, asystole), orthostatic hypotension, and hypertension. Clinical Reasoning: While the RRT focuses on the 20/30/40 rule for ventilation, the NBRC also tests the holistic management of the patient. Labile blood pressure and heart rate are red flags for GBS-related autonomic instability.
Following a high-velocity MVC, a patient’s initial CXR is clear. However, 24 hours later, patchy infiltrates appear beneath a site of rib fractures. What is the most likely diagnosis and its primary effect on gas exchange?
Show answer →Pulmonary Contusion. It is characterized by interstitial and alveolar hemorrhage and edema. Key timing: Infiltrates often take 6-24 hours to appear on CXR (the delayed presentation). Effect: Decreased lung compliance and significant intrapulmonary shunting (V/Q mismatch), leading to refractory hypoxemia. NBRC Pearl: Contusions generally do not cross anatomical fissures, whereas pneumonia or ARDS are usually more diffuse or lobar.
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Try 30 free RRT cards firstThe full RRT deck contains 1040 flashcards, and 90 of them focus on pathology. This page shows 5 free samples.
Our RRT deck dedicates 90 of 1040 cards (9%) to pathology — always cross-check the official NBRC exam outline for the current blueprint weighting.
Yes — the samples on this page are free, and the RRT preview page has 30 more free cards. Full access to all 1040 cards is a one-time $7.
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