So You're are a Graduate-Now what?

If you’re used to coming to this blog and finding useful information as you traveled through your respiratory education, well you’re right to continue visiting because we here at Respiratory World can help you get started preparing for the National Board of Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam.

As a graduate, readying to take the NBRC exam, you must mentally prepare yourself because no doubt you have probably been hearing all kinds of horror stories from friends, instructors or even working respiratory therapists that would love to scare you just for laughs. 

First let’s start off by saying that the AARC provides some useful information for “Preparing For Those NBRCCredentialing Exams;” tips that attempt to keep you from “cramming” for the exam and sensibly pace yourself for the long haul.

One of your first stops should also be the NBRC; it has a lot offer in the realm of preparation. 

• Read over the NBRC examination requirements, this will help you make sure you have all your ducks in order prior to applying for the examination.
• Some of your concerns can be easily answered for the NBRC’s FAQ section; this section covers anything from “general FAQs” to “sleep disorders specialty credential FAQs”.
• PSI/AMP is a company, sanctioned by the NBRC, to help you find the resources you need to take any of the exams that are offered.  Here, you could also take “free” practice exams that would help you assess your strengths and areas that you may need help in.

Let the Pros Help

Like any profession that expects one to pass a national exam there is a whole network of providers that, for a fee, will prepare you for the NBRC exam.  The great thing about this is most of them will offer a 100% money back guarantee if you don’t pass!  Below are just a few:

1. Kettering NationalSeminars offers extensive courses, live or self-study, that could prepare you and give you specific tactics into approaching each test question.
2. Lindsey Jones, much like Kettering, can deliver a different approach to the same exams, but as with teachers and learners, sometimes it’s best to look at the same thing with a different set of eyes.
3. AARC Exam PrepProgram, is the newest on the block but note worthy.  The program, being that this is the organization that establishes all the rules, can give the test taker multiple paths to take in order to direct your energies in the appropriate categories. 

As a last note, Craig Scanian offers some advice for persons getting ready for their board exams in “Test-Taking Tips and Techniques.”  He puts forth a plan that educates the tester into the understanding that “knowledge of subject matter” and “good test-taking skills” equal passing the NBRC exam. 

Now remember, there are many ways for you to prepare for this exam, but whatever path you take, make sure it is one that you are comfortable with.  Also, share what works, share what doesn’t, you never know how your experience might impact someone feeling the same way you are at this time.  No matter the case, GOOD LUCK!!