National Board for Respiratory Care

National Board for Respiratory Care

The National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) is a non-profit organization that provides certification and credentialing for respiratory therapists in the United States. Established in 1960, the NBRC aims to ensure the highest standards of respiratory care by setting competency standards, conducting examinations, and granting credentials to qualified individuals.

History

The NBRC was founded in response to the growing need for standardized education and training in the field of respiratory care. Prior to its establishment, there was no national organization responsible for certifying respiratory therapists. The NBRC was created to fill this gap and to promote the professional development of respiratory therapists.

Certification and Credentialing

The NBRC offers several certifications and credentials for respiratory therapists, including the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) and the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credentials. These certifications are recognized by state licensing boards and employers as evidence of a respiratory therapist's competence and expertise.

To obtain the CRT credential, individuals must pass the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination, which assesses their knowledge and skills in various areas of respiratory care. The TMC Examination covers topics such as patient assessment, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

After obtaining the CRT credential, respiratory therapists can pursue the RRT credential by passing the Clinical Simulation Examination (CSE). The CSE evaluates the candidate's ability to apply their knowledge and skills in simulated patient care scenarios. Successful completion of the CSE demonstrates a higher level of proficiency in respiratory care.

Continuing Education

The NBRC recognizes the importance of ongoing professional development and requires respiratory therapists to participate in continuing education activities to maintain their credentials. This ensures that respiratory therapists stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field and continue to provide high-quality care to their patients.

The NBRC offers various resources and opportunities for continuing education, including online courses, conferences, and workshops. These activities cover a wide range of topics relevant to respiratory care, such as new treatment modalities, research findings, and best practices.

Collaboration and Advocacy

The NBRC collaborates with other professional organizations, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies to promote the advancement of respiratory care. By working together, these entities strive to improve the quality of respiratory care services and enhance patient outcomes.

Additionally, the NBRC advocates for the recognition and value of respiratory therapists within the healthcare system. They actively engage in initiatives to raise awareness about the critical role respiratory therapists play in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of respiratory conditions.

Conclusion

The National Board for Respiratory Care plays a vital role in ensuring the competency and professionalism of respiratory therapists in the United States. Through its certification and credentialing programs, the NBRC sets high standards for respiratory care and promotes ongoing professional development. By collaborating with other organizations and advocating for the profession, the NBRC contributes to the advancement of respiratory care and the well-being of patients.

See Also

• Respiratory therapy
• American Association for Respiratory Care