Atelectasis Tips for the Respiratory Therapy Board Exam

Watch this video to learn everything you need to know about atelectasis for the board exam, from recognition to treatment strategies.
💥Atelectasis Tips [Full Guide] ➜ ➜ ➜ https://bit.ly/3G3tLxy

Atelectasis is a high-yield topic on the respiratory therapy board exam and an important clinical condition to master. It refers to the partial or complete collapse of lung tissue, which impairs gas exchange and often leads to hypoxemia. Common causes include post-operative hypoventilation, mucus plugging, or external compression. On the exam, it is frequently tested through case scenarios involving radiographs, physical assessment findings, or ventilator data. Success comes from not just knowing the definition, but being able to interpret clues, choose the correct therapy, and escalate care appropriately.

Pathophysiologically, collapsed alveoli continue to receive blood flow but cannot ventilate, creating a shunt-like effect. This explains why oxygenation does not improve significantly with FiO₂ alone; instead, alveoli must be re-expanded using interventions such as incentive spirometry, PEP therapy, or IPPB. Post-operative patients with shallow breathing are classic exam cases, where incentive spirometry is the initial therapy of choice. Recognizing radiographic clues—such as opacity with tracheal shift toward the affected side, elevated hemidiaphragm, and rib crowding—is also essential, and helps distinguish atelectasis from conditions like pneumothorax.

In ventilated patients, atelectasis may present as increased airway pressures and reduced compliance. Mucus plugging is a common trigger, with suctioning or bronchoscopy as appropriate interventions. The exam also tests critical reasoning with scenarios such as right mainstem intubation causing unilateral collapse, neonatal IRDS linked to surfactant deficiency, or cases requiring escalation from CPAP to more invasive therapy. Equally important is addressing root causes—pain management, foreign body removal, or secretion clearance—while reassessing outcomes after each intervention.

Ultimately, atelectasis questions demand both knowledge and clinical judgment. By practicing radiograph interpretation, reviewing patient scenarios, and learning when to escalate therapy, candidates can approach these questions with confidence and align with the NBRC’s expectations for competent, decision-ready respiratory therapists.

💥Atelectasis Tips [Full Guide] ➜ ➜ ➜ https://bit.ly/3G3tLxy

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This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a physician with any questions that you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you watch in this video. We strive for 100% accuracy, but errors may occur, and medications, protocols, and treatment methods may change over time.

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⏰TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Intro
0:19 - Definition
1:15 - Pathophysiology
2:05 - Exam Tips
6:25 - Causes
7:08 - Reassessment
7:48 - Exam Trap
8:45 - More Tips

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