200+ Free NBRC CRT Practice Questions
Pass your Certified Respiratory Therapist (NBRC) exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.
A patient has the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.32, PaCO2 55 mmHg, PaO2 68 mmHg, HCO3- 28 mEq/L. What is the primary acid-base disturbance?
Key Facts: NBRC CRT Exam
160
Total Items
NBRC TMC structure
140
Scored Questions
NBRC TMC structure
3 hours
Time Limit
NBRC
$190
Exam Fee (new)
NBRC 2026
50%
Interventions Domain
TMC outline
Jan 2027
New RT Exam
NBRC transition
The NBRC CRT is earned by achieving the low cut score on the 160-item TMC examination (140 scored + 20 pretest). The TMC detailed content outline effective through December 31, 2026 tests three domains: Patient Data (50 items), Troubleshooting/QC/Infection Control (20 items), and Initiation/Modification of Interventions (70 items). The CRT is the foundation credential; candidates achieving the high cut score become eligible for the RRT credential and CSE examination.
Sample NBRC CRT Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your NBRC CRT exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 200+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1A patient has the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.32, PaCO2 55 mmHg, PaO2 68 mmHg, HCO3- 28 mEq/L. What is the primary acid-base disturbance?
2A patient with COPD has a pulse oximetry reading of 88% on room air. What is the most appropriate initial action?
3Which of the following is the most effective method for sterilizing respiratory therapy equipment?
4A chest X-ray shows opacification of the left lower lobe with an air bronchogram. This finding is most consistent with:
5The normal range for arterial blood pH is:
6A patient's spirometry shows FEV1/FVC ratio of 68% with reduced FVC. This pattern is characteristic of:
7Standard Precautions require respiratory therapists to:
8What is the normal range for PaO2 in arterial blood gas?
9A patient receiving mechanical ventilation has a sudden drop in SpO2 from 96% to 82%. The first action should be to:
10Which ECG finding is most suggestive of right ventricular hypertrophy?
About the NBRC CRT Exam
The NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential is the entry-level certification for respiratory care practitioners. Candidates take the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) examination and must achieve the low cut score to earn the CRT credential. The exam tests competency in patient data evaluation, equipment manipulation, and therapeutic interventions across the lifespan.
Questions
160 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours
Passing Score
Low cut score for CRT eligibility
Exam Fee
$190 new / $150 repeat (NBRC)
NBRC CRT Exam Content Outline
Patient Data Evaluation
Chart review, vital signs, physical assessment, diagnostic test interpretation (ABG, spirometry, imaging), and recommendations for respiratory care
Equipment and Quality Control
Oxygen delivery systems, ventilation equipment, aerosol generators, suction systems, calibration, troubleshooting, and infection control protocols
Therapeutic Interventions
Oxygen therapy, aerosol medication delivery, bronchial hygiene, lung expansion therapy, airway management, mechanical ventilation, and emergency care including CPR
How to Pass the NBRC CRT Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Low cut score for CRT eligibility
- Exam length: 160 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Exam fee: $190 new / $150 repeat
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
NBRC CRT Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRT and RRT?
The CRT (Certified Respiratory Therapist) is the entry-level credential earned by achieving the low cut score on the TMC exam. The RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) requires achieving the high cut score on the TMC, followed by passing the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE). The RRT is the advanced credential preferred by many employers.
How many questions are on the CRT exam?
The TMC examination contains 160 multiple-choice items: 140 scored items and 20 unscored pretest items. You have 3 hours to complete the exam. The same TMC exam is used for both CRT and RRT eligibility - your score determines which credential you qualify for.
What content is covered on the CRT exam?
The TMC detailed content outline (effective through December 31, 2026) covers three domains: Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations (50 scored items), Troubleshooting and Quality Control of Equipment and Infection Control (20 scored items), and Initiation and Modification of Interventions (70 scored items).
What is the passing score for the CRT?
NBRC uses a scaled scoring system with two cut scores. The low cut score qualifies candidates for the CRT credential. The high cut score qualifies candidates for RRT eligibility and the CSE. Exact cut scores are determined through standard-setting and are not published as raw percentages.
How much does the CRT exam cost?
The TMC exam fee is $190 for first-time applicants and $150 for repeat applicants. These fees are paid directly to the NBRC when you submit your application.
What are the eligibility requirements for the CRT?
To sit for the TMC exam, candidates must: 1) be at least 18 years old, 2) have a high school diploma or equivalent, and 3) have completed a CoARC-accredited respiratory care education program or equivalent. Graduates of international programs may have additional requirements.