EXAM COVERAGE - TMC Secure Comprehensive Therapist SAE Exam
The TMC Secure Comprehensive Therapist Self-Assessment
Examination (SAE) evaluates the knowledge and clinical competencies
required for respiratory therapists preparing for advanced
credentialing exams. The exam is administered by National Board for
Respiratory Care and focuses on comprehensive respiratory care
principles. Key topics include respiratory anatomy and physiology,
patient assessment, and interpretation of arterial blood gases (ABGs).
The exam covers mechanical ventilation management, airway care,
oxygen therapy, and pulmonary function testing. Candidates are
tested on neonatal, pediatric, and adult respiratory care, including
treatment of conditions such as COPD, asthma, respiratory failure, and
,acute lung disorders. Additional areas include pharmacology related
to respiratory therapy, infection control, emergency and critical care
procedures, and patient monitoring techniques. The exam emphasizes
clinical decision-making, problem-solving, and application of
evidence-based respiratory care practices in diverse healthcare
settings.
,A patient is admitted to the ED following a motor vehicle accident. On
physical exam, the respiratory therapist discovers that breath sounds
are absent in the left chest with a hyperresonant percussion note. The
trachea is shifted to the right. The patient's heart rate is 45/min,
respiratory rate is 30/min, and blood pressure is 60/40 mm Hg. What
action should the therapist recommend first?
A. Call for a STAT chest x-ray.
B. Insert a chest tube into the left chest.
C. Needle aspirate the 2nd left intercostal space.
D. Activate the medical emergency team to intubate the patient.
Needle aspirate the 2nd left intercostal space.
, A 48 year-old female is admitted to the ED with diaphoresis, jugular
venous distension, and 3+ pitting edema in the ankles. These findings
are consistent with
A. liver failure.
B. pulmonary embolism.
C. heart failure.
D. electrolyte imbalances
Heart failure