study set 1

A physical therapist assistant completes documentation using a S.O.A.P. note format. In order to organize the objective section of the note the physical therapist assistant uses a number of subheadings. Which of the following subheadings would NOT typically appear in the objective section? Palpation Mental status Endurance Mechanism of injury

mechanism of injury

A patient with a suspected herniated nucleus pulposus presents with a lateral shift. The physical therapist assistant corrects the lateral shift and instructs the patient in passive extension exercises. According to the McKenzie approach, which of the following statements would be the MOST encouraging? "I feel pain radiating down my opposite leg." "I feel increased pain in my back and diminished pain in my leg." "I feel decreased pain in my back and increased pain in my leg." "I feel pain only in my leg."

"I feel increased pain in my back and diminished pain in my leg."

A physical therapist assistant reviews a laboratory report for a 41-year-old male recently admitted to an acute care hospital. Which of the following would be considered a normal hemoglobin value? 1. 10 gm/dL 2. 15 gm/dL 3. 20 gm/dL 4. 25 gm/dL

. 15 gm/dL Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. A blood test can determine how much hemoglobin is in the blood. The range of normal values for adult men is approximately 13.3-16.2 gm/dL.

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a patient rehabilitating from a stroke. The patient has a flaccid right upper extremity with only limited active movement. When would the MOST rapid upper extremity functional recovery likely occur? 0-3 months 4-6 months 7-9 months 10-12 months

0-3 months

A physical therapist assistant has ultrasound orders for a patient with medial epicondylitis. The woman injured herself three weeks ago playing golf. Which parameters would be the MOST appropriate? 1 W/cm2, 1 MHz, 12 minutes 1 W/cm2, 1 MHz, 5 minutes 1 W/cm2, 3 MHz, 5 minutes 1 W/cm2, 3 MHz, 12 minutes

1 W/cm2, 3 MHz, 5 minutes Ultrasound using 3 MHz is desirable when targeting superficial structures, such as the medial epicondyle. Five minutes of ultrasound is typically sufficient to cover an area 2-3 times the size of the sound head.

A patient develops lymphedema within her right upper extremity following treatment for breast cancer. The patient is directed to use compression bandages to help control fluctuations in edema levels. Which of the following bandages would be MOST appropriate for this patient?1. Short-stretch bandages, more compression distally 2. Short-stretch bandages, more compression proximally 3. Long-stretch bandages, more compression distally 4. Long-stretch bandages, more compression proximally

1. Short-stretch bandages, more compression distally Lymphedema is a chronic, incurable condition and is characterized by the accumulation of protein-rich fluid (i.e., lymph) in the body. Compression therapy helps reduce limb size by improving the reabsorption ability of the capillaries and reduce the filtration of fluids into the interstitium. Short-stretch bandages have a low resting pressure and a high working pressure. These types of bandages are ideal for patients with lymphedema since they do not constrict lymph flow at rest, but can also assist with lymph transport when the muscles are contracting. Bandages should always have graded compression, with higher pressures in more distal regions.

patient with a lengthy history of back pain utilizes conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to relieve pain. During the physical therapy session, the patient asks if they can use the TENS unit when driving their car. What is the MOST appropriate physical therapist assistant response? 1. TENS can be used while driving, but caution should be taken in regard to pain level 2. TENS can be used while driving, but limit driving time to a maximum of one hour per day 3. Avoid using TENS during driving since it will delay reaction times 4. Avoid using TENS during driving since it may produce involuntary muscle contractions

1. TENS can be used while driving, but caution should be taken in regard to pain level Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is commonly used to treat patients with acute and chronic pain. Conventional TENS is characterized by delivery of electrical pulses having short duration and high frequency with low current amplitude. The current amplitude should be sufficient to generate a sensory response, but should be below the motor threshold. Driving while using TENS is considered a precaution, but it is not a contraindication. Conventional TENS is routinely used to relieve pain during activities of daily living.

A patient who collapsed in the physical therapy gym fails to exhibit a pulse. Upon viewing the patient's mouth it becomes obvious the patient has dentures. The physical therapist assistant is hesitant to remove the dentures since they seem secure, however does not want them to interfere with rescue breathing. What is the MOST appropriate action? 1.Leave the dentures in place 2.Loosen the dentures 3.Remove the dentures 4.Remove the dentures and utilize a mask to limit direct pressure on the patient's mouth

1.Leave the dentures in place

A physical therapist assistant participates in a scoliosis screening program at a local school. The physical therapist assistant completes the screening by having the participants complete the forward bend test. What is the MOST appropriate age range to target for the screening? 4-7 years 8-10 years 11-14 years 15-18 years

11-14

A physical therapist assistant positions a patient diagnosed with lateral spinal stenosis in supine on a traction table. The patient is a 45-year-old male who is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs approximately 220 pounds. Assuming low friction from the traction table, what is the minimum amount of force necessary for mechanical separation of the vertebrae in the lumbar spine? 55 lbs 110 lbs 165 lbs 200 lbs

110 lbs

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a patient rehabilitating from a total knee arthroplasty. One of the entries in the medical record indicates the presence of a 15 degree extension lag at the knee. Which of the following goniometric readings would be MOST consistent with this condition? 1.15-100 degrees active range of motion; 0-100 degrees passive range of motion 2.15-100 degrees passive range of motion; 0-100 degrees active range of motion 3.15-120 degrees passive range of motion; 15-135 degrees active range of motion 4.15-135 degrees active range of motion; 15-135 degrees passive range of motion

15-100 degrees active range of motion; 0-100 degrees passive range of motion An extension lag is characterized by passive range of motion being greater than active range of motion. In option 1, the passive extension range of motion is 15 degrees greater than the active extension range of motion. An extension lag is often caused by weakness or inhibition by pain.

A physical therapist assistant performs a series of measurements to determine the necessary back height of a wheelchair. The physical therapist assistant obtains a measurement of 20 inches when measuring from the seat of the chair to the base of the axilla. Assuming the patient uses a two inch seat cushion, what is the MOST appropriate back height for the wheelchair? 14 inches 16 inches 18 inches 20 inches

18 inches To determine the necessary back height of the wheelchair, a therapist should measure from the seat of the chair to the patient's axilla and subtract four inches (20 - 4 = 16 inches). However, because the patient is using a seat cushion, this must be added into the measurement for back height (16 + 2 = 18 inches).

A physical therapist assistant uses water as a coupling agent for ultrasound by immersing a patient's foot in a basin of water. What is the MOST appropriate distance between the transducer and the surface of the foot during treatment? 6 centimeters 4 centimeters 2 centimeters The transducer should be in direct contact with the surface of the foot

2 cm

A physical therapist assistant observes that the back height of a wheelchair extends above the patient's inferior angle of the scapula. Which finding would provide the MOST appropriate justification for the described wheelchair fit?1. Patient exhibits poor sitting tolerance due to pelvic obliquity 2. Patient has fair trunk control, but is able to independently propel a wheelchair 3. Patient requires mild to moderate lateral support due to listing 4. Patient is unable to perform weight shifting activities in sitting due to extensor tone

2. Patient has fair trunk control, but is able to independently propel a wheelchair Back height is determined by measuring from the seat of the chair to the floor of the axilla with the user's shoulder flexed to 90 degrees and then subtracting approximately 4 inches. Normally, the back height is below the inferior angle of the scapula. Increased back height is often indicated to improve trunk control. This modification will allow the patient to more efficiently and safely propel the wheelchair.

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient with a traumatic head injury that is classified as level VII: automatic-appropriate. Which finding is MOST characteristic of a patient at this level? 1. Show carryover for new learning and need no supervision for learned activities 2. Show carryover for new learning, but at a decreased rate 3. Show carryover for new learning, but remain dependent on external input or direction 4. Perform previously learned tasks with structure, but is unable to learn new information

2. Show carryover for new learning, but at a decreased rate Patients with head injuries are typically classified according to the Rancho Los Amigos Levels of Cognitive Functioning Scale. At the automatic-appropriate - level VII, patients show carryover for new learning, but at a decreased rate. They appear appropriate and oriented and can perform their daily routine automatically. Patients at this level require structure to initiate activities and judgment remains impaired.

A physical therapist assistant works on community reintegration with a patient prior to discharge to home. Which aspect of gait should the assistant focus on during training to ensure the patient's ability to safely cross the street? 1. Step length 2. Velocity 3. Cadence 4. Heel strike

2. Velocity Therapists who are working with patients on community reintegration need to have an understanding of distance and time requirements prior to setting goals for functional ambulation. For example, the patient who is re-entering the community may need to be able to walk at a specific velocity to safely cross the street. Velocity is the rate of forward progression. It is defined as the distance traveled per unit of time. Gait velocity, or gait speed, is the most important measure of a patient's ability to safely cross the street.

A 24-year-old male rehabilitating from a T2 spinal cord injury complains of a pounding headache and blurred vision while completing an exercise program in supine on a mat table. The patient is sweating profusely and has a pulse rate of 50 beats per minute. What is the MOST immediate physical therapist assistant response? 1.Maintain the patient in a supine position and monitor blood pressure 2. Place the patient in an upright position and check the catheter 3.Document the subjective and objective information in the medical record 4.Contact the nursing staff to discuss the patient's condition

2. Place the patient in an upright position and check the catheter

A physical therapist assistant is treating a patient with a right transtibial amputation. When ambulating with a patellar tendon-bearing socket, the patient complains of discomfort on the patella. What is the MOST appropriate treatment to decrease the patient's discomfort? 1.Add a shoe lift to the left leg 2.Add a one ply sock to the residual limb and reapply the prosthesis 3.Discontinue ambulation 4.Place a piece of foam over the patella and reapply the prosthesis

2.Add a one ply sock to the residual limb and reapply the prosthesis

A physical therapist assistant administers ultrasound to the low back of a patient rehabilitating from a muscle strain. The physical therapist assistant uses ultrasound with a frequency of 1 MHz and an intensity of 1.5 W/cm2. After two minutes of treatment the patient denies feeling any sensation of warmth. What is the MOST appropriate assistant action? 1.Increase the intensity of the ultrasound 2.Continue to monitor the patient's subjective reports throughout the intervention 3.Discontinue the current ultrasound and instead utilize ultrasound with a frequency of 3 MHz 4.Discontinue ultrasound as an intervention and perform a sensory assessment

2.Continue to monitor the patient's subjective reports throughout the intervention

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient diagnosed with a vestibular disorder on various balance activities. Which variable would MOST influence the vestibular system when assessing balance? 1.Center of gravity 2.Head position 3.Visual field 4.Tactile feedback

2.Head position

A physical therapist assistant attempts to differentiate closed kinetic chain exercise from open chain exercise during a rehabilitation rounds seminar. Which of the following is MOST representative of a closed chain exercise using the upper extremity? 1.Completing an arm curl using a five pound weight 2.Using the upper extremity during crutch walking 3.Performing an upper extremity D1 flexion pattern 4.Lifting a 10 pound weight from the ground to a platform at waist level

2.Using the upper extremity during crutch walking A closed chain exercise involves movement where the distal extremity is fixed and remains in constant contact with an immobile surface. Using crutches would be an example of a closed chain exercise since the hand remains in contact with the crutch and does not move freely in space.

A patient stands with one foot on the ground and another foot on a floor scale. The physical therapist assistant instructs the patient to place an increasing amount of weight through the affected lower extremity until the scale records a value of 40 pounds. Assuming the patient weighs 200 pounds, what percent weight bearing is the patient experiencing on the affected limb? 1. 20 percent 2. 25 percent 3. 50 percent 4. 70 percent

20 percent 20 percent weight bearing would correspond to 40 pounds of weight being transmitted through the affected lower extremity for an individual weighing 200 pounds (200 pounds x 0.20 = 40 pounds).

A patient with burns over her anterior right upper extremity, genital region, and the anterior portions of the right and left lower extremities is examined in physical therapy. What percentage of the patient's body is burned using the rule of nines? 19.0% 23.5% 28.0% 38.5%

23.5%

A patient utilizes an elastic support to provide compression for an upper extremity that was injured in a recent fire. In order to prevent hypertrophic scarring, how often should the elastic support be worn? 4-8 hours a day 12-16 hours a day 16-20 hours a day 24 hours a day except when bathing

24 hours a day except when bathing

Prior to starting a home health visit, a physical therapist assistant checks the lab values of a patient post total hip arthroplasty who is taking warfarin (Coumadin). The international normalized ratio (INR) is 0.8. Which of the following conditions should the assistant recognize as the GREATEST risk factor based on the stated INR value? 1. Excessive bleeding 2. Hypotension 3. Deep vein thrombosis 4. Anemia

3. Deep vein thrombosis Pharmacological intervention post total hip arthroplasty will include anticoagulant agents such as warfarin (Coumadin) due to the known risk for thromboembolic disease post major surgery. The international normalized ratio (INR) is used to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy. An INR range of 2.0 to 3.0 is considered an effective therapeutic range for individuals taking warfarin (Coumadin). An INR of 0.8 is significantly lower than the therapeutic range and means the blood is "too thick" or clots too easily despite the use of warfarin (Coumadin). This increases the risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a serious condition because the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism.

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient in sitting who is attempting to reach for a ball positioned on the floor. Which trunk muscle activity is primarily used to complete this upper body initiated weight shift? 1. Eccentric contraction of the left lateral trunk 2. Concentric contraction of the left lateral trunk 3.Eccentric contraction of the trunk extensors 4. Concentric contraction of the trunk extensors

3. Eccentric contraction of the trunk extensors Upper body initiated weight shifting movements in sitting provide predictable spinal and motor activity. Eccentric contraction of the trunk extensors is the typical response to an upper body initiated anterior weight shift where the patient reaches anteriorly towards the ground while performing spinal flexion in order to complete the task. The eccentric contraction of the trunk extensors allows the patient to reach with forward trunk flexion.

A patient rehabilitating from knee surgery attempts to complete a straight leg raise after receiving formal instructions from the physical therapist assistant. Which of the following would serve as the MOST appropriate method of feedback? 1.You performed the exercise adequately, but it could have been better. 2.With more practice, I am confident your technique will improve. 3.Attempt to complete the exercise with your knee as straight as possible. 4.Try to think about how you would have performed the exercise prior to your injury.

3.Attempt to complete the exercise with your knee as straight as possible.

A physical therapist assistant routinely begins each treatment session by assessing a patient's vital signs. When measuring blood pressure, how far above the estimated systolic blood pressure value should the physical therapist assistant inflate the blood pressure cuff? 5 mm Hg 10 mm Hg 30 mm Hg 40 mm Hg

30

A physical therapist assistant attempts to record the respiratory rate of an 18-year-old male prior to initiating an exercise program. Which time interval would be the MOST appropriate given the physical therapist assistant's objective? 10 seconds 15 seconds 20 seconds 30 seconds

30 secs

A physical therapist assistant administers cardiopulmonary resuscitation to an eight-year-old male with a lengthy cardiac history. When administering chest compressions, what is the MOST appropriate minimum depth? 20 percent of the anterior-posterior depth of the chest 33 percent of the anterior-posterior depth of the chest 50 percent of the anterior-posterior depth of the chest 67 percent of the anterior-posterior depth of the chest

33 percent

A local retailer develops plans to build a ramp that will allow individuals with disabilities to access the store. When designing the actual ramp, what is the minimum recommended width? 36 inches 54 inches 60 inches 72 inches

36

A physical therapist assistant serves as an accessibility consultant for a local business designing a new office complex. What is the minimum recommended width necessary to safely propel a wheelchair in a corridor? 28 inches 32 inches 36 inches 40 inches

36 inches

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient that required mechanical ventilation during an acute care hospitalization. If the patient continues to experience dyspnea due to a weakened diaphragm post mechanical ventilation, which of the following patient positions is the MOST desirable to provide relief from the dyspnea? 1. Lying supine with the lower extremities elevated 2. Trendelenburg positioning in sidelying 3. Semi-Fowler positioning 4. Leaning forward in sitting with upper extremity support

4. Leaning forward in sitting with upper extremity support The diaphragm is the primary muscle of inspiration. It is a dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. Forward leaning with arm support optimizes the length-tension relationship of the diaphragm and allows the pectoralis minor and pectoralis major muscles to assist in elevating the rib cage during inspiration. This is an optimal position for a patient when attempting to relieve dyspnea post weaning from mechanical ventilation.

A physical therapist assistant recommends that a patient diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis use a forearm strap while performing activities that exacerbate symptoms. What is the PRIMARY function of this type of device? 1.increases recruitment of damaged muscle fibers during activity 2.applies pressure to reduce the perception of pain during activity 3.limits the amount of muscle force generated during activity 4.transfers forces to less affected areas of the musculature during activity

4.transfers forces to less affected areas of the musculature during activity

A physical therapist assistant examines data obtained during a series of pulmonary function tests. The physical therapist assistant is able to determine that the patient's vital capacity was recorded as 5,000 mL, however, is not able to locate a value for inspiratory capacity. Based on the recorded value for vital capacity, which number would be MOST representative of the patient's inspiratory capacity? 1,000 mL 2,500 mL 4,000 mL 7,000 mL

4000 Inspiratory capacity is measured by asking a patient to inhale maximally after completing a normal exhalation (i.e., inspiratory reserve volume + tidal volume). Inspiratory capacity is approximately 75-80% of vital capacity.

A 38-year-old male rehabilitating from an ankle sprain completes an exercise program designed to improve cardiovascular fitness. Assuming the prime activity in the exercise program takes 30 minutes to complete and corresponds to 8 metabolic equivalents, what is the MOST appropriate frequency for the exercise program? Two times per day Four times per day Two times per week Four times per week

4x

A physical therapist assistant participates in a community health fair by screening elderly patients to determine their risk for falling. The assistant utilizes the Berg Balance Scale for the screening and therefore is required to rate patients on 14 specific items. When using the Berg Balance Scale, what type of scale should be used to score each of these items? 1. 3-point scale 2. 4-point scale 3. 5-point scale 4. 6-point scale

5 point scale

A 140 pound female diagnosed with cervical dysfunction is referred to physical therapy for mechanical spinal traction. The physical therapist assistant administers the traction in a supine position. What percentage of body weight would be the MOST appropriate parameter for treatment in the cervical spine? 3% 7% 28% 35%

7 percent

A physical therapist assistant reviews exercise guidelines in preparation for a community fitness initiative. Which of the following guidelines MOST accurately describes the intensity of exercise for a healthy individual? 40% of maximum oxygen consumption 70% of maximum oxygen consumption 90% of maximum oxygen consumption 95% of maximum oxygen consumption

70

A patient describes a number of symptoms in their fingers and hands consistent with Raynaud's disease. Which patient would have the GREATEST incidence of this condition?1. A 29-year-old female 2. A 57-year-old female 3. A 27-year-old male 4. A 55-year-old male

A 29-year-old female Raynaud's disease is a condition that causes arteries supplying blood to the skin to narrow, resulting in diminished circulation. Symptoms include pallor, rubor, cyanosis, and numbness and tingling in the digits and hand. Females are more likely than males to be diagnosed with Raynaud's disease. Peak incidence is between the ages of 20 and 49 years.

A physical therapist assistant presents a community inservice on risk factors associated with coronary heart disease. Which of the following individuals would be at greatest risk? A 45-year-old male with a cholesterol level of 260 mg/dL A 39-year-old female with a cholesterol level of 180 mg/dL and a family history of cardiac disease A 42-year-old male with a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL and hypertension A 47-year-old female with a cholesterol level of 170 mg/dL, moderate hypotension, and a family history of cardiac disease

A 42-year-old male with a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL and hypertension

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient who complains of pain and weakness in both hands. The therapist suspects that the patient has bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. Which of the following patients would be MOST likely to have this condition? A 65-year-old male with rheumatoid arthritis A 45-year-old-female with diabetes A 45-year-old male with history of ulnar nerve relocation surgery A 75-year-old female with osteoporosis

A 45-year-old-female with diabetes

A physical therapist assistant orders a wheelchair with anti-tip tubes for a patient in preparation for discharge from a rehabilitation hospital. Which patient would MOST significantly benefit from this option? A patient with Guillain-Barre syndrome A patient with C5 quadriplegia A patient with hemiparesis A patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

A patient with C5 quadriplegia

A physical therapist assistant is concerned about the potential for body fluids to compromise the integrity of a patient's surrounding skin. Which scenario would likely be the MOST problematic? 1. A patient with an ascending colostomy 2. A patient with a chest drainage system 3. A patient with an external fixation device 4. A patient with a closed drainage system

A patient with an ascending colostomy The ascending colon, located on the right side of the abdomen, is the beginning portion of the large intestine. An ascending colostomy results in only a very short portion of the colon remaining active and as a result the output is primarily liquid containing many digestive enzymes. A drainable pouch must be worn at all times and the skin must be protected from the output. Failure to adequately protect the skin can result in ulceration and bleeding due to direct contact with digestive enzymes.

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient diagnosed with a meniscal lesion. Which meniscal injury would be the MOST likely to heal without surgical intervention? A tear involving the inner third of the lateral meniscus A tear involving the middle third of the lateral meniscus A tear involving the inner third of the medial meniscus A tear involving the outer third of the medial meniscus

A tear involving the outer third of the medial meniscus

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient rehabilitating from total hip arthroplasty surgery. As part of the session, the physical therapist assistant discusses the importance of preventing deep venous thrombosis. Which finding is the BEST indicator that the patient is at a reduced risk for acquiring a deep venous thrombosis? Ability to perform ankle pumps and muscle setting exercises Ability to ambulate on a frequent schedule Ability to achieve full hip range of motion within the allowable limits Ability to utilize pneumatic compression devices and elastic stockings

Ability to ambulate on a frequent schedule

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient with fibromyalgia. The patient reports that contact with the bed sheets produces pain when they try to sleep at night. Which term is MOST consistent with the patient's description? 1. Allodynia 2.Hyperalgesia 3.Hyperestesia 4.Analgesia

Allodynia is defined as pain that is produced by a stimulus that does not usually provoke pain.

A physical therapist assistant completes a manual muscle test on a patient who sustained a laceration to the anterior surface of the forearm. When performing the test on the flexor pollicis brevis, where should the physical therapist assistant direct their force? Along the volar aspect of the proximal phalanx of the thumb Along the volar aspect of the distal phalanx of the thumb Along the dorsal aspect of the proximal phalanx of the thumb Along the dorsal aspect of the distal phalanx of the thumb

Along the volar aspect of the proximal phalanx of the thumb

A physical therapist assistant treats a two-month-old infant diagnosed with myelomeningocele. A component of the established treatment plan includes mobilization and stretching of contracted muscles around the foot due to talipes equinovarus deformity. Which description is MOST consistent with this type of foot deformity? Ankle dorsiflexion, hindfoot varus, forefoot adduction Ankle dorsiflexion, hindfoot valgus, forefoot abduction Ankle plantar flexion, hindfoot varus, forefoot adduction Ankle plantar flexion, hindfoot valgus, forefoot abduction

Ankle plantar flexion, hindfoot varus, forefoot adduction

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital treats a patient with a wound approximately one inch superior to the medial malleolus. The physical therapist assistant prepares to test the patient's light touch sensation using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. What is the MOST appropriate testing method when using monofilaments? 1.Apply the monofilament perpendicular to the skin with enough pressure to bend the filament 2.Apply the monofilament at an oblique angle to the skin with enough pressure to lightly contact the skin 3.Apply the monofilament perpendicular to the skin with enough pressure to lightly contact the skin 4.Apply the monofilament at an oblique angle to the skin with enough pressure to bend the filament

Apply the monofilament perpendicular to the skin with enough pressure to bend the filament

A patient with diabetes mellitus is seen in physical therapy for a general conditioning program. Which activity would be MOST likely to increase the risk of hypoglycemia for the patient? Aquatic therapy in a therapeutic pool for 30 minutes Riding a stationary bicycle at 60 revolutions per minute for 15 minutes Lower extremity resistive exercises using a one pound cuff weight Outdoor walking program at 1.5 miles per hour for 30 minutes

Aquatic therapy in a therapeutic pool for 30 minutes Workload, timing, and environment all play a role in the relative risk of hypoglycemia for a patient with diabetes. The intensity of aquatic therapy is somewhat variable, however, is likely to be moderate. A duration of 30 minutes in conjunction with the increased ambient temperature of the aquatic environment serves to increase insulin absorption from the injection site into the bloodstream.

A physical therapist assistant administers the Mini Mental State Examination to a 57-year-old female recently admitted to the hospital following a motor vehicle accident. Which of the following commands would be the MOST appropriate to assess orientation? 1Repeat the name of three objects that were mentioned earlier 2Count backwards by seven beginning with the number 100 3Ask the patient the current month, date, and year 4Copy a given design using paper and pencil

Ask the patient the current month, date, and year

A physical therapist assistant notices that a colleague often treats three or more patients in a group session. When completing daily billing sheets, the colleague utilizes a code for individual treatment and not the group treatment code. What is the MOST immediate physical therapist assistant action? 1.Ask the therapist if they are aware that there is a separate code for group treatment 2.Notify the director of rehabilitation that the therapist is committing fraud 3.Contact the American Physical Therapy Association 4.Report the therapist to the state licensing agency

Ask the therapist if they are aware that there is a separate code for group treatment

A patient recently diagnosed with terminal cancer discusses his future plans with a physical therapist assistant. The patient indicates that if he dedicates himself to a daily exercise program it will be possible to attend his grandson's college graduation next year. Which stage of death and dying is BEST characterized in this scenario?1.Denial 2.Bargaining 3.Depression 4.Acceptance

Bargaining The fact that the patient indicates "if" he commits to an exercise program, it "will" be possible to attend graduation makes bargaining the most representative stage.

A physical therapist assistant instructs a 29-year-old male rehabilitating from a fractured left ankle to ascend a set of stairs equipped with handrails. The physical therapist assistant has the patient ascend the stairs on the right hand side after the patient mentioned that his job often requires him to go up and down an extremely busy stairwell. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate location for the physical therapist assistant to stand when guarding the patient? 1.In front of the patient toward the involved side 2.In front of the patient toward the uninvolved side 3,].Behind the patient toward the involved side 4.Behind the patient toward the uninvolved side.3

Behind the patient toward the involved side

A physical therapist assistant presents an inservice to members of a rehabilitation team on a spinal cord unit. When discussing autonomic dysreflexia, what should the physical therapist assistant identify as the MOST common cause? Pounding headache Change in position Large increases in blood pressure Bladder distension

Bladder distension

A patient in an acute care hospital awaiting a heart transplant uses a left ventricular assistive device. During a treatment session, the patient suddenly fails to exhibit a pulse and appears to be in distress. What is the MOST appropriate immediate action? Administer chest compressions Call a code Attempt to assess the condition of the left ventricular assistive device Reassess the patient's vital signs

Call a code

A physical therapist assistant implements a strengthening program for a patient with upper extremity weakness that incorporates upper extremity proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques. Which verbal command would be the MOST appropriate for D1 flexion? Close your hand and pull up and across your body Close your hand and pull down and across your body Open your hand and push down and away from your body Open your hand and pull up and away from your body

Close your hand and pull up and across your body

A physical therapist assistant prepares to perform manual vibration as a means of airway clearance with a patient diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. When performing vibration, what is the MOST appropriate form of manual contact over the affected lung segment? Contact with a cupped hand Contact with the entire palmar surface of the hand Contact with the ulnar border of the hand Contact with the distal phalanx of the middle finger

Contact with the entire palmar surface of the hand

A physical therapist assistant reads in the medical record that a patient has recently been prescribed nitrates due to angina. What is the PRIMARY action of this pharmacological agent? 1. Decrease cardiac preload and decrease cardiac afterload 2. Decrease cardiac preload and increase cardiac afterload 3. Increase cardiac preload and decrease cardiac afterload 4. Increase cardiac preload and increase cardiac afterload

Decrease cardiac preload and decrease cardiac afterload Nitrates produce their primary effects by producing a general vasodilation in vasculature throughout the body. Cardiac preload is diminished by dilation of the systemic venous system. Cardiac afterload is diminished by dilation of the systemic peripheral arteries which decrease the pressure against which the heart must pump.

A physical therapist assistant utilizes a hand held neuromuscular electrical stimulation unit to treat a patient with disuse muscle atrophy of the quadriceps. After observing a series of muscle contractions the physical therapist assistant decides to alter the pulse rate and width. What is the MOST appropriate initial action? Reposition the electrodes on the quadriceps Obtain informed consent from the patient Check the strength of the battery Decrease the intensity of the current

Decrease the intensity of the current

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient rehabilitating from a medial meniscectomy. While observing the patient complete a leg press exercise, the physical therapist assistant feels the patient is struggling more than usual and is concerned that the patient may alter his technique in an attempt to successfully complete the activity. What is the MOST appropriate assistant action? 1Attempt to contact the supervising physical therapist to discuss the situation 2Decrease the weight used on the leg press exercise 3Decrease the number of sets for the leg press exercise 4Discontinue the exercise session

Decrease weight

A physical therapist assistant attempts to obtain information on a patient's response to exercise by assessing pulse rate immediately after an exercise session. Which of the following techniques would provide the physical therapist assistant with the desired information? 1.Determine the pulse rate using the brachial artery for 10 seconds and multiply by six 2.Determine the pulse rate using the femoral artery for 15 seconds and multiply by four 3.Determine the pulse rate using the radial artery for 30 seconds and multiply by two 4.Determine the pulse rate using the carotid artery for 60 seconds

Determine the pulse rate using the radial artery for 30 seconds and multiply by two

A physical therapist assistant identifies the presence of the plantar grasp reflex in an 11-month-old infant. Which of the following is the MOST likely outcome related to the primitive reflex? Limited eye-hand coordination Diminished balance reactions and weight shifting in standing Inability to grasp and release objects voluntarily Difficulty with selected protective responses

Diminished balance reactions and weight shifting in standing

A physical therapist assistant employed in an outpatient physical therapy clinic notices that a patient referred to a group exercise program for osteoarthritis has been slow to engage in group activities and often seems disinterested. Which action would be the MOST immediate to increase the patient's level of participation? 1.Continue to encourage the patient to participate 2.Develop a reward program for the patient based on his level of participation 3,Discuss the purpose of the program and the potential consequences of not participating with the patient 4.Consult with the patient's referring physician

Discuss the purpose of the program and the potential consequences of not participating with the patient

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient with a decubitus ulcer using whirlpool. After treating the wound for 10 treatment sessions the wound still shows little evidence of granulation. What is the MOST appropriate action? Begin aggressive debridement Recommend a wound culture Discontinue whirlpool treatments Discuss the situation with the supervising physical therapist

Discuss the situation with the supervising physical therapist

A physical therapist assistant applies ultrasound at 1.3 W/cm2 for 7 minutes to the posterior knee of a patient positioned in prone. The patient has diminished knee extension due to soft tissue shortening and is four weeks status post arthroscopic surgery. If the goal is to improve knee extension range of motion, when should stretching of the knee occur? Immediately before the administration of ultrasound Immediately before and during the administration of ultrasound During the administration of ultrasound During and immediately after the administration of ultrasound

During and immediately after the administration of ultrasound

A patient has difficulty walking with variations in speed and completing an alternating finger to nose test. Which term is MOST consistent with the described deficits? Asthenia Bradykinesia Dysmetria Dysdiadochokinesia

Dysdiadochokinesia

A physical therapist assistant instructs a patient in a traditional bench press exercise using free weights. Which modification would be the MOST beneficial to limit the amount of stress placed on the anterior capsule of the shoulder? 1.Grasp the bar with a supinated grip with the hands slightly wider than shoulder width apart 2.Ensure that the elbows are fully extended at the conclusion of the upward movement 3.Ensure that the bar does not contact the chest during the downward movement 4.Attempt to slightly raise the head off of the bench during the upward movement

Ensure that the bar does not contact the chest during the downward movement

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient with Parkinson's disease. Based on the diagnosis, which intervention would be the MOST appropriate to include in the plan of care? Small amplitude movements to increase motor control Reaching activities utilizing a standing frame External cues and feedback to improve arm swing during gait Facilitation techniques to increase tone in the extremities

External cues and feedback to improve arm swing during gait

A patient with unilateral lower extremity weakness is referred to physical therapy. When testing the right hip abductors with the patient positioned in left sidelying, the patient is able to maintain the test position. Further testing reveals the patient is unable to maintain the test position if even slight pressure is added. What is the MOST appropriate grade for this muscle? Fair minus Fair Fair plus Good minus

Fair

A physical therapist assistant positions a patient in supine with his legs extended in preparation for manual stretching of the iliopsoas. What is the MOST appropriate method to stabilize the pelvis when stretching the right iliopsoas? 1.Flex the right hip and knee to the patient's chest to prevent an anterior tilt of the pelvis during stretching 2.Flex the left hip and knee to the patient's chest to prevent an anterior tilt of the pelvis during stretching 3.Flex the right hip and knee to the patient's chest to prevent a posterior tilt of the pelvis during stretching 4.Flex the left hip and knee to the patient's chest to prevent a posterior tilt of the pelvis during stretching

Flex the left hip and knee to the patient's chest to prevent an anterior tilt of the pelvis during stretching The described stretching procedure mimics the Thomas test, a special test designed to identify tightness of the one-joint hip flexors (i.e., iliopsoas). When stretching the right hip, the left hip and knee should be flexed to the patient's chest to posteriorly rotate the pelvis (i.e., prevent anterior tilt).

A physical therapist assistant performs a manual muscle test as depicted in the image. What muscle is the assistant MOST likely testing? (palm up pulling thumb lateral) 1. Extensor pollicis brevis 2. Extensor pollicis longus 3. Flexor pollicis brevis 4. Flexor pollicis longus

Flexor pollicis brevis Manual muscle tests are utilized to assess the strength of a muscle or muscle group. Muscle testing grades range from zero (0/5) to normal (5/5) based on the ability to move a body segment through range with and without varying levels of resistance. The flexor pollicis brevis is tested with pressure applied to the palmar surface of the proximal phalanx of the first digit in the direction of extension.

A physical therapist assistant instructs a patient who is unable to perform a standing transfer how to utilize a sliding board. When using the sliding board to transfer from a wheelchair to a bed, which wheelchair option is MOST desirable? Swing away detachable leg rests Elevating leg rests Full length, detachable arms Adjustable height arms

Full length, detachable arms

A physical therapist assistant measures a patient's blood pressure using a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer. What is the MOST accurate description of the necessary inflation level? Greater than the patient's estimated diastolic blood pressure Less than the patient's estimated diastolic blood pressure Greater than the patient's estimated systolic blood pressure Less than the patient's estimated systolic blood pressure

Greater than the patient's estimated systolic blood pressure

A physical therapist assistant implements an exercise program with a 26-year-old female patient rehabilitating from a myocardial infarction. Which of the following would NOT be helpful when educating the patient to avoid the Valsalva maneuver? Remind the patient not to hold her breath Have the patient inhale during active movement Attempt to establish a rhythmical breathing pattern Instruct the patient to talk during exercise

Have the patient inhale during active movement

A patient is instructed in extension activities in an attempt to reduce a moderate disk protrusion in the lumbar spine. Which of the following would be the MOST appropriate to initiate the exercise program? Have the patient perform a prone press up Have the patient position himself in prone on elbows Have the patient lie in prone on a firm surface Have the patient perform extension exercises in standing

Have the patient lie in prone on a firm surface Having the patient lie in prone on a firm surface is the least provocative of the presented options because it requires the least amount of spinal extension and therefore would be the most appropriate to initiate the exercise program. If patients have difficulty with lying in prone, a pillow can be placed under their hips to further reduce the amount of spinal extension.

A physical therapist assistant instructs a patient with a transfemoral amputation in active stretching techniques. Which of the following motions would be MOST important to emphasize in the stretching program? 1.Hip flexion and abduction 2.Hip extension and abduction 3.Hip flexion and adduction 4.Hip extension and adduction

Hip extension and adduction The hip is most susceptible to a hip flexion and abduction contracture which means that the stretching program should emphasize hip extension and adduction. Why

A physical therapist assistant treating a patient in the physical therapy gym notices a small amount of smoke seeping out from under the door to the laundry room. The physical therapist assistant feels the outside of the door, which is very warm and begins to strongly suspect the presence of a fire. What is the MOST immediate action? Remove all patients from the building Identify the presence of an emergency using the call system Shout for assistance Attempt to extinguish the fire

Identify the presence of an emergency using the call system

A patient rehabilitating from a stroke is referred to physical therapy. The medical record indicates the stroke primarily involved the right hemisphere of the brain. Which of the following objective findings would be LEAST likely when working with the patient? Diminished motor control of the left side of the body Impaired awareness of the right side of the body Impaired spatial ability Diminished emotional depth

Impaired awareness of the right side of the body

A physical therapist assistant providing patient coverage for a colleague on vacation reviews the examination of a patient diagnosed with post-poliomyelitis syndrome. Which of the following entries in the medical record would be LEAST likely given the patient's diagnosis? Decreased endurance for activities of daily living Muscle atrophy and fasciculations are evident in the lower extremities Impaired sensation in the buttocks, posterior leg, and calf Diminished and asymmetrical deep tendon reflexes

Impaired sensation in the buttocks, posterior leg, and calf

A patient that sustained a major stroke due to an ischemic infarction is admitted to an acute care hospital. A note in the patient's medical record indicates that the patient is to remain in bed in a horizontal position as much as possible for a two-day period. What is the PRIMARY purpose for the positioning? Improve cerebral circulation Limit the escape of blood from ruptured vessels Limit the build up of cerebrospinal fluid inside the ventricle Improve the effectiveness of anticoagulant medication

Improve cerebral circulation

A patient with apraxia works on functional skills with the involved upper extremity. Which physical therapist assistant action is MOST appropriate to reduce the patient's performance errors? Provide the patient with novel tasks Focus initially on strengthening of the involved upper extremity Incorporate relevant objects and tasks into the therapy session Provide simple verbal cues

Incorporate relevant objects and tasks into the therapy session Apraxia is a motor planning problem that does not result from weakness, incoordination or poor language skills. Providing familiar tasks and using relevant objects can improve the patient's performance.

A physical therapist assistant administers neuromuscular electrical stimulation to the quadriceps using a bipolar electrode configuration. After observing the muscle contraction, the physical therapist assistant decides to modify the treatment set up in order to increase the depth of current penetration. What is the MOST appropriate action? Utilize carbon-rubber electrodes Increase the size of the electrodes Utilize additional electrodes using a bifurcated lead Increase the distance between the electrodes

Increase the distance between the electrodes

A physical therapist assistant initiates ultrasound using water immersion to the distal calf of a patient rehabilitating from a motor vehicle accident. The physical therapist assistant had previously administered ultrasound using direct contact, 1 MHz frequency at 1.2 W/cm2 for five minutes. Which action is MOST appropriate in order to maintain the same amount of tissue heating as originally used with the direct contact technique? 1.Utilize the same treatment procedures 2.Increase the intensity and decrease the time 3.Increase the intensity and increase the time 4.Change the frequency to 3 MHz and increase the time

Increase the intensity and increase the time

A 16-year-old female athlete is referred to physical therapy with a diagnosis of Osgood-Schlatter syndrome. Which anatomical variation in females contributes to an increased incidence of the condition when compared to males? Decreased Q angle Increased femoral anteversion Genu varus Decreased pronation

Increased femoral anteversion

A 54-year-old male diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is referred to physical therapy. Based on the patient's diagnosis, which of the following would be the MOST significant finding of a pulmonary function test? Decreased expiratory reserve volume Increased inspiratory reserve volume Decreased tidal volume Increased residual volume

Increased residual volume

A physical therapist assistant checks a patient's medical record prior to beginning a scheduled physical therapy session. A recent entry in the medical record indicates that the patient's white blood cell count is markedly low. What is the MOST likely potential consequence? Decreased mental acuity Increased susceptibility to infectious disease Decreased exercise tolerance Increased risk of bleeding

Increased susceptibility to infectious disease

A patient diagnosed with T5 paraplegia is discharged from a rehabilitation hospital following 16 weeks of therapy. Assuming a normal recovery, which of the following most accurately describes the status of the patient's bathroom transfers? Dependent Independent with the presence of an attendant Independent with bathroom adaptations Independent

Independent with bathroom adaptations

A physical therapist assistant completing an entry in a medical record notices that a patient exercising independently in the gym is significantly deviating from the standard technique when using a piece of progressive resistive equipment. Assuming the physical therapist assistant observing the patient is not the therapist of record, what is the MOST appropriate physical therapist assistant action? 1.Continue to observe the patient, but do not intervene 2.Instruct the patient to stop the exercise and attempt to locate the patient's therapist 3.Instruct the patient how to perform the exercise correctly 4.Select an alternate progressive resistive exercise for the patient

Instruct the patient to stop the exercise and attempt to locate the patient's therapist

A patient using a patella tendon-bearing prosthesis applies a donut-shaped pad to an area of skin breakdown on the residual limb. The area of tissue damage was identified shortly after the patient initiated prosthetic training. What is the PRIMARY rationale to avoid using this type of intervention?1. Ply of the prosthetic socks required for ambulation 2. Ischemic effect of weight bearing on the residual limb 3. Weight bearing forces applied to the patella tendon 4. Limb volume of the residual limb

Ischemic effect of weight bearing on the residual limb Weight bearing normally produces a blanchable area of redness on the residual limb which returns to coloration in a short period of time after cessation of weight bearing. A donut-shaped pad significantly increases pressure and potentially creates further skin breakdown or hinders healing as a result of ischemia to the compromised area.

A 56-year-old male with osteoarthritis is referred to physical therapy for strengthening exercises. Physical examination reveals moderate inflammation and swelling in the left knee with evidence of quadriceps atrophy. The patient indicates the knee is often painful, particularly after periods of prolonged standing. What is the MOST appropriate form of exercise to initiate strength training? Isometric muscle setting exercise Active knee extension using elastic tubing Progressive resistive exercise using ankle weights Limited range isokinetic exercise

Isometric muscle setting exercise

In preparation for ambulation activities a physical therapist assistant orders orthoses for a patient with a complete L3 spinal cord injury. The patient is three months status post injury and has had an unremarkable recovery. Which of the following orthoses would be the MOST appropriate? Hip-knee-ankle-foot orthoses Knee-ankle-foot orthoses Ankle-foot orthoses Reciprocating gait orthoses

Knee-ankle-foot orthoses A patient with an L3 spinal cord injury would have the hip flexors and knee extensors innervated, however, would not possess innervation of muscles posterior or inferior to the knee. As a result, a knee-ankle-foot orthosis would be necessary to provide the required level of stability.

A physical therapist assistant treats an infant diagnosed with torticollis with marked lateral flexion of the neck to the right. As part of the infant's plan of care the physical therapist assistant performs passive stretching activities to improve the patient's range of motion. What is the MOST appropriate stretch for the patient? Lateral flexion to the right and rotation to the right Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the left Lateral flexion to the right and rotation to the left Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the right

Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the right

After observing a patient during an exercise session, a physical therapist assistant concludes that the patient commonly uses the Valsalva maneuver. Which activity would have the greatest probability of producing the Valsalva maneuver? Lifting a 40 lb. package from the floor to a counter at waist level Walking at 4 mph on a treadmill Stationary cycling at 80 revolutions per minute Using an upper extremity ergometer at 40 revolutions per minute

Lifting a 40 lb. package from the floor to a counter at waist level

A patient with Crohn's disease is seen in physical therapy status post abdominal surgery. Initially, which interventions should be emphasized? Log rolling, breathing exercises, early ambulation Lower extremity exercises, ultrasound to incisional area Patient education, continuous passive motion machine use, coughing techniques Pain management, isometric exercises, stair training

Log rolling, breathing exercises, early ambulation

A physical therapist assistant treats a 35-year-old male that was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis two months ago. The patient's primary symptom is asymmetric weakness, particularly in the small muscles of the right hand. Which objective finding is MOST likely associated with the patient's primary symptom? Damage to the cranial nerve nuclei Loss of motor neurons in the anterior horn cells Atrophy of the basal ganglia Demyelination of the myelin sheath

Loss of motor neurons in the anterior horn cells

A physical therapist assistant classifies an obtained sputum sample as purulent. Which of the following medical conditions would MOST likely be associated with this type of sputum? 1. Asthma 2. Lung abscess 3. Pulmonary edema 4. Tuberculosis

Lung abscess Sputum refers to matter expectorated from the respiratory system usually consisting of saliva, mucus or foreign matter. The relative color and composition of the sputum can provide valuable information to health care providers related to a patient's medical condition. Purulent sputum tends to be yellowish-greenish in color and is most often indicative of infection. A lung abscess refers to necrosis of pulmonary tissue and formation of cavities containing necrotic debris or fluid caused by infection. Sputum associated with a lung abscess is most often described as purulent.

A physical therapist assistant performs resisted isometrics as part of a lower quarter screening assessment. After testing the ankle dorsiflexors, the physical therapist assistant reports the findings as strong and painful. What is the MOST plausible interpretation of the test results? Complete rupture of the musculotendinous unit Minor lesion of the musculotendinous unit Inhibition by pain Neurological lesion

Minor lesion of the musculotendinous unit Resisted isometric movements are designed to determine the role of contractile tissue in an injury. The therapist attempts to elicit a strong, static, voluntary muscle contraction and then classify the movement as strong or weak and painful or pain-free. A minor lesion of the musculotendinous unit would tend to result in strong and painful resisted isometrics. All the other options would likely result in weak resisted isometrics. Why Incorrect? Academic

A physical therapist assistant treats a 56-year-old male status post transfemoral amputation with a hip flexion contracture. As part of the treatment regime the physical therapist assistant performs passive stretching exercises to the involved hip. What is the MOST appropriate form of passive stretching? Moderate tension over a prolonged period of time Moderate tension over a brief period of time Maximal tension over a prolonged period of time Maximal tension over a brief period of time

Moderate tension over a prolonged period of time

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital is informed by a nurse that a Swan-Ganz catheter has recently been utilized on a patient status post cardiac surgery. What is the PRIMARY use of this type of catheter? Monitor pulmonary artery pressure Monitor intracranial pressure Administer medication Measure oxygen saturation of blood

Monitor pulmonary artery pressure

A physical therapist assistant inspects an ulcer on the plantar surface of a patient's foot beneath the metatarsal heads. The patient reports minimal pain in the foot primarily due to diminished sensation. The patient's relevant medical history includes diabetes. Which type of ulcer is MOST consistent with the supplied description? Arterial insufficiency ulcer Neuropathic ulcer Pressure ulcer Venous insufficiency ulcer

Neuropathic ulcer

A physical therapist assistant asks a patient to complete a pain questionnaire. The questionnaire utilizes an ascending numeric scale ranging from "0" (equaling no pain) to "10" (equaling excruciating pain). Which type of measurement scale is being utilized? 1. Nominal 2. Ordinal 3. Interval 4. Ratio

Ordinal The ordinal scale of measurement requires that the categories be ranked or ordered according to some defined characteristic or property so that the numbers on the scale have a greater than - less than relationship. The intervals between ranks need not be equal and may not be known, as is the case with measurement of pain on a 0 to 10 scale. While an "8" indicates greater pain than a "4," it cannot be said to represent twice as much pain because the magnitude of pain associated with each number is unknown and may vary among patients. Also, the difference between an 8 and 4 does not indicate the same difference in pain as the difference between a 6 and 2.

An older adult describes posterior thoracic pain that worsens with spinal flexion. The patient does not smoke and denies having a cough or difficulty breathing. The patient has a past medical history of diabetes mellitus, hyperparathyroidism, and acid reflux, for which they take antacids as needed. Which condition is MOST consistent with the patient's clinical presentation? 1. Paget's disease 2. Lung neoplasm 3. Costochondritis 4. Osteoporotic fracture

Osteoporotic fracture Osteoporosis is one of the most common bone diseases found in older adults. Lifestyle choices and medical conditions such as diabetes or hyperparathyroidism can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteoporotic fractures occur as a result of bone degradation and the inability to withstand the forces distributed during spinal motions, most commonly with flexion. The described clinical presentation is consistent with this medical condition.

A physical therapist assistant performs a muscle test of the shoulder medial rotators using a handheld dynamometer. Where is the MOST appropriate location to position the dynamometer? Over the anterior aspect of the distal humerus just proximal to the elbow Over the posterior aspect of the distal humerus just proximal to the elbow Over the anterior aspect of the distal forearm just proximal to the wrist Over the posterior aspect of the distal forearm just proximal to the wrist

Over the anterior aspect of the distal forearm just proximal to the wrist

A physical therapist assistant reviews the results of an examination on a patient with a knee injury. Which of the following examples would MOST likely produce an end-feel classified as empty? 1.Passive knee flexion limited by pain 2.Active knee extension limited by pain 3.Passive knee flexion limited by joint effusion 4.Active knee flexion limited by joint effusion

Passive knee flexion limited by pain

A patient positioned in prone on a treatment plinth complains of pain in the low back. In order to alleviate the pain, the physical therapist assistant attempts to reduce the patient's lumbar lordosis. What is the MOST appropriate modification? Place a pillow under the patient's upper or middle chest Place a pillow under the patient's lower abdomen Place a pillow lengthwise from the patient's pelvis to the thorax Place a small bolster under the patient's anterior ankles

Place a pillow under the patient's lower abdomen

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient on a bridging progression in order to improve the patient's core stability. The patient is able to perform single leg bridging as shown in the image. Which description would be the next position to attain using a therapeutic ball? 1.Place a therapeutic ball under the patient's lower legs and require the patient to maintain a bridging position with the legs extended. 2.Place the patient's feet in contact with the therapeutic ball with the knees bent and require the patient to maintain a bridging position. 3.Place a therapeutic ball under the patient's upper back and require the patient to maintain a bridging position with one foot in contact with the ground. 4.Place a therapeutic ball under the patient's upper back and require the patient to maintain a bridging position with both feet in contact with the ground.

Place a therapeutic ball under the patient's lower legs and require the patient to maintain a bridging position with the legs extended.

A patient is diagnosed with a grade II sprain of the anterior talofibular ligament. The patient states that he jumped to rebound a basketball and immediately fell to the floor upon landing on the ankle. What motions of the foot and ankle were MOST likely associated with the ligamentous injury? Plantar flexion and inversion Dorsiflexion and inversion Plantar flexion and eversion Dorsiflexion and eversion

Plantar flexion and inversion

A physical therapist assistant works with a middle-aged female recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. The patient indicates she is not "athletic" and does not currently participate in any formal exercise activities. Which intervention would be the MOST beneficial to implement given her medical diagnosis? Progressive ambulation program Stretching program Lower extremity resistance program Fall prevention program

Progressive ambulation program

A patient who is partial weight bearing on the left lower extremity prepares to transfer from a wheelchair to a standing position in preparation for ambulation activities with a walker. Which of the following instructions would be the MOST appropriate when performing the transfer? Push up with one hand on the wheelchair armrest and the other hand reaching for the walker Push up with both hands on the wheelchair armrests Pull on the walker with one hand while pushing up on the wheelchair armrest with the other Pull on the walker with two hands

Push up with both hands on the wheelchair armrests

A patient with patellar tracking dysfunction is examined in physical therapy. Physical examination reveals diminished vastus medialis obliquus activity. What is the MOST appropriate method to selectively train the vastus medialis obliquus? Quadriceps setting exercises and biofeedback Short-arc terminal extension with manual resistance Straight leg raises with leg weights Multiple angle isometric exercises

Quadriceps setting exercises and biofeedback

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient following a traumatic crush injury to the forearm. The patient displays a wrist drop deformity and is unable to strongly grasp objects with their hand. Which nerve was MOST likely affected? 1. Median nerve 2. Ulnar nerve 3. Radial nerve 4. Musculocutaneous nerve

Radial nerve Wrist drop deformity is characterized by an inability to actively extend the wrist and fingers, resulting in the wrist being flaccidly held in a flexed position. Patients with wrist drop deformity have diminished grip strength since they are unable to actively extend their wrist. The radial nerve innervates the triceps, brachioradialis, wrist extensors, and finger extensors. Injury to the radial nerve often causes weakness with wrist and finger extension, resulting in a wrist drop deformity.

A physical therapist assistant instructs a 27-year-old patient rehabilitating from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery on how to perform a swing through gait pattern. Which of the following instructions would NOT be included in patient education regarding an unrecoverable backward loss of balance? Release your crutches Bend your trunk forward Reach backward with your arms Move your chin towards your chest

Reach backward with your arms

A patient that has been on extended bed rest is positioned on a tilt table. After slightly elevating the head of the tilt table, the patient begins to experience mild dizziness. The patient's systolic blood pressure is measured as 10 mm Hg less than the value recorded at the beginning of the treatment session. What is the MOST appropriate physical therapist assistant action? Reassure the patient that the response is not unusual Contact the director of rehabilitation for assistance Document the incident in the patient's chart Lower the tilt table

Reassure the patient that the response is not unusual

A physical therapist assistant works with a five-year-old male with cerebral palsy. As part of the patient's plan of care, the physician orders a trial of inhibitive casting on the patient's lower extremity. What is the PRIMARY goal of inhibitive casting? Reduce the influence of abnormal tonic reflexes Improve range of motion in the knee and ankle Reduce pain during weight bearing activities Improve the fluidity of ambulation

Reduce the influence of abnormal tonic reflexes

physical therapist assistant completes lower extremity range of motion activities with a patient status post spinal cord injury. While performing passive range of motion, the assistant notices that the patient's urine is extremely dark and has a distinctive foul-smelling odor. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate action for the assistant to take? 1. Check for other signs and symptoms of infection 2. Report the observation to the patient's physician 3. Report the observation to the patient's nurse 4. Educate the patient on the importance of proper hydration

Report the observation to the patient's nurse Therapists should report any abnormality in a patient's urine to the appropriate member of the health care team since this may indicate a change in the patient's medical status. Documentation of urine may include comments related to a variety of characteristics (e.g., color, smell, quantity). If the therapist is concerned about a change in the patient's medical status, the patient's nurse would be the most logical health care provider to initially receive this information.

A nurse asks a physical therapist assistant to transfer a patient from a bed to a wheelchair. The physical therapist assistant is concerned about her ability to transfer the patient safely due to the patient's weight and limited ability to actively participate in the transfer. What is the MOST appropriate action? 1.Attempt to complete the transfer, however, stop immediately if the task is too difficult 2.Complete the transfer using proper body mechanics 3,Request assistance from another staff member prior to initiating the transfer 4.Instruct the nurse to use a hydraulic lift

Request assistance from another staff member prior to initiating the transfer

A physical therapist assistant suspects that a geriatric patient with unilateral hearing loss often has difficulty hearing verbal instructions. What is the MOST appropriate accommodation when communicating with the patient? Speak loudly and slowly Speak to the patient's uninvolved side Speak with varying vocal pitch Speak directly to the patient

Speak to the patient's uninvolved side

A physical therapist assistant works on weight shifting activities with a patient sitting over the edge of a mat table with their feet positioned on the floor. The physical therapist assistant facilitates an anterior weight shift through facilitation of the pelvis. What pattern of activity would be required for the patient to maintain an upright posture? Spinal extension resulting from concentric contraction of the spinal extensors Spinal flexion resulting from concentric contraction of the spinal flexors Spinal extension resulting from eccentric contraction of the spinal extensors Spinal flexion resulting from eccentric contraction of the spinal flexors

Spinal extension resulting from concentric contraction of the spinal extensors

A patient diagnosed with left patellofemoral pain is referred to physical therapy. The patient reports the onset of pain in the left knee when she runs for more than six miles. Physical examination of the left knee reveals mild edema along the medial joint line, diminished patella medial glide, and mild vastus medialis atrophy. What is the MOST appropriate treatment option? Medial patella glides and squats to 90 degrees knee flexion with hip adduction Open chain knee extension in short sitting Squats to 30 degrees knee flexion and medial patella glides Phonophoresis and retro-walking on a treadmill

Squats to 30 degrees knee flexion and medial patella glides It is necessary to incorporate medial patella glides since the patient has patellofemoral syndrome with an identified diminished patella medial glide. Squats to 30 degrees of knee flexion are sufficient to strengthen the vastus medialis without placing unnecessary stress on the patellofemoral joint.

A physical therapist assistant prepares to measure glenohumeral abduction range of motion on a patient positioned in supine using a goniometer. Which of the following steps should be the FIRST to occur? Make a clinical estimate of range of motion Stabilize the proximal joint segment Align the goniometer Assess the end-feel

Stabilize the proximal joint segment

A 28-year-old female with hip pain of unknown etiology is referred to physical therapy. As part of the session the physical therapist assistant plans to observe the patient while jogging on a treadmill. Which of the following positions is MOST appropriate for the patient when starting the treadmill belt? 1.Standing on the treadmill belt 2.Standing on the treadmill belt with one foot while the other is positioned on the floor 3.Standing with one foot on each side of the treadmill platform 4.Standing on the floor next to the treadmill

Standing with one foot on each side of the treadmill platform

A physical therapist assistant administers an ultrasound treatment to the low back of a patient recently referred to physical therapy. During the treatment the patient suddenly complains of "hot spots" directly under the ultrasound transducer. Which ultrasound parameters are MOST likely to result in this type of subjective complaint? Stationary technique, high beam nonuniformity ratio Dynamic technique, low beam nonuniformity ratio Stationary technique, low beam nonuniformity ratio Dynamic technique, high beam nonuniformity ratio

Stationary technique, high beam nonuniformity ratio

A physician prescribes a dopamine replacement agent for a patient diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Which structure is responsible for the production of dopamine? Substantia nigra Subthalamic nucleus Corpus striatum Caudate nucleus

Substantia nigra

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care medical center reviews the medical record of a patient recently admitted to the hospital after sustaining extensive burns in a house fire. The patient's burns range from superficial to full-thickness. Which classification of burns would likely be the MOST painful? Superficial burn Superficial partial-thickness burn Deep partial-thickness burn Full-thickness burn

Superficial partial-thickness burn

A physical therapist assistant observes a burn located on the anterior forearm of a 26-year-old male. The burn covers an area approximately six centimeters in length and four centimeters in width. The skin in the affected area is bright red with areas of blistering throughout. The patient reports a subjective pain scale rating of "8" out of "10." What is the MOST likely classification of the burn? Superficial burn Superficial partial-thickness burn Deep partial-thickness burn Full thickness burn

Superficial partial-thickness burn

A physical therapist assistant assesses the end-feel associated with forearm supination. Which of the following is the MOST plausible rationale for a firm end-feel with this motion? 1.Contact between the olecranon process and the olecranon fossa 2.Tension in the biceps brachii 3.Tension in the palmar radioulnar ligament 4.Contact between the ulna and the radius

Tension in the palmar radioulnar ligament Options 1 and 4 are not possible since bone on bone contact would produce a hard end-feel. Option 2 is incorrect since the biceps brachii would create tension and restrict motion with forearm pronation (i.e., since it acts as a supinator). The palmar radioulnar ligament would restrict motion with forearm supination.

A physical therapist assistant records the blood pressure of a patient with their arm positioned above the level of the heart. What impact would this have on the obtained measurement in comparison to a more traditional measurement of blood pressure? The obtained systolic and diastolic values would be higher The obtained systolic and diastolic values would be lower The obtained systolic value would be higher and the diastolic value would be lower The obtained systolic value would be lower and the diastolic value would be higher

The obtained systolic and diastolic values would be lower

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a patient with Hodgkin's disease. The patient is a 45-year-old male who recently began chemotherapy treatment. What effect will chemotherapy have on the patient's ability to participate in a rehabilitation program? The patient may be susceptible to infection The patient may experience excessive fatigue The patient may demonstrate cardiac anomalies The patient may exhibit signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal distress

The patient may experience excessive fatigue

A 47-year-old female receives physical therapy services after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome. As part of the session the physical therapist assistant assesses several discriminative sensations with the patient's eyes closed. Which method would be the MOST appropriate when assessing kinesthesia? 1.The physical therapist assistant moves the patient's upper extremity and asks the patient to indicate the direction of movement while the extremity is in motion 2.The patient moves the upper extremity and indicates the direction of movement while the extremity is in motion 3.The physical therapist assistant moves the patient's upper extremity to a selected position and asks the patient to describe the position 4.The patient moves the upper extremity to a selected position and is asked to describe the position

The physical therapist assistant moves the patient's upper extremity and asks the patient to indicate the direction of movement while the extremity is in motion

patient recently diagnosed with end-stage renal disease begins hemodialysis treatments at an outpatient facility. Which frequency and duration of dialysis is the MOST typical? 1. Three times a week for two hours 2. Three times a week for four hours 3. Five times a week for two hours 4. Five times a week for four hours

Three times a week for four hours Hemodialysis refers to an artificial kidney (i.e., hemodialyzer) being used to remove waste and extra chemicals and fluid from the blood. The actual frequency and duration of hemodialysis is dependent on a number of variables including present kidney function, fluid weight gained between treatments, amount of waste accumulated, and physical size. Three times a week for four hours is the most common schedule for hemodialysis. This type of schedule allows hemodialysis to accomplish the necessary therapeutic objectives without being excessively burdensome for the patient.

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a 46-year-old male diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The record contains the results of several lung volumes including inspiratory reserve volume and expiratory reserve volume. Which of the following additional measures is necessary in order to determine vital capacity? Inspiratory capacity Tidal volume Residual volume Total lung capacity

Tidal volume

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient who has complaints of pain in their ring finger. The patient utilizes a distal interphalangeal splint. Which of the following conditions would LEAST likely benefit from the use of this splint? 1. Trigger Finger 2. Interphalangeal joint arthritis 3. Mallet finger 4. Distal phalanx fracture

Trigger finger A distal interphalangeal (DIP) splint crosses the DIP joint and is used primarily to immobilize the joint so that healing can occur to structures within and around the joint. This type of splint is commonly used in the presence of tendon injuries, fractures, and osteoarthritis. Trigger finger occurs secondary to a thickening of the flexor tendon sheath, which can result in difficulty flexing or extending the finger. The patient will often complain of catching, snapping or locking during movement. This condition is typically treated with a corticosteroid injection or with surgical intervention. Splinting is not commonly used to treat trigger finger.

A physical therapist assistant works with a two-year-old with Down syndrome. Which of the following therapeutic activities would be the LEAST appropriate? Facilitate weight bearing through the lower extremities during play Facilitate midline orientation during sitting and standing activities Utilize trunk rotation during play in order to elicit postural reactions Utilize inhibitory techniques in order to decrease hypertonicity of the trunk

Utilize inhibitory techniques in order to decrease hypertonicity of the trunk

A physical therapist assistant concludes that a patient exhibits dysmetria after performing a number of tests. Which test would be LEAST helpful to confirm the assistant's conclusion? 1. Drawing a circle or figure eight 2. Pointing and past pointing 3. Placing the feet on markers while walking 4. Walking with alterations in speed

Walking with alterations in speed Dysmetria refers to an inability to modulate movement, causing affected patients to either overestimate or underestimate their targets. Walking with alterations in speed would be a more appropriate test to confirm the presence of dysdiadochokinesia. Other tests for dysdiadochokinesia include alternating finger to nose and rapid pronation/supination of the forearm.

A physical therapist assistant transitioning to an acute care floor reviews normal laboratory values. Which of the following statements is correct when describing typical hematocrit and hemoglobin values? Women have higher hematocrit and hemoglobin values than men Women have higher hematocrit and lower hemoglobin values than men Women have lower hematocrit and higher hemoglobin values than men Women have lower hematocrit and hemoglobin values than men

Women have lower hematocrit and hemoglobin values than men

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient status post CVA with neuromuscular electrical stimulation in an attempt to decrease flexor spasticity in the forearm. The electrode should be placed over which of the following muscle groups to achieve this objective? Wrist extensor and finger flexor musculature Wrist extensor and finger extensor musculature Wrist flexor and finger extensor musculature Electrical stimulation is not used to treat spasticity

Wrist extensor and finger extensor musculature

A physical therapist assistant provides a small perturbation to a patient in standing in order to assess the patient's ability to employ motor strategies related to balance. Which motor strategy would be the MOST immediate after force application? Stepping Ankle Lunging Hip

ankle

A physical therapist assistant completing documentation at a workstation observes a patient enter the gym and begin to use the weight machines. When approached by the physical therapist assistant, the patient indicates he is 10 minutes early for a scheduled appointment, however states that he often begins exercising before formal contact with a therapist. What is the MOST appropriate action? 1.Monitor the patient while he initiates the exercise program 2.Ask the patient to return to the waiting area 3.Review the patient's medical record 4.Allow the patient to exercise independently

ask pt to return to waiting area

A five-month-old child is referred to physical therapy for a developmental assessment. During a treatment session the physical therapist assistant observes the infant roll from prone to supine. Integration of which primitive reflex is often associated with completion of this milestone? Asymmetrical tonic neck reflex Symmetrical tonic neck reflex Galant reflex Moro reflex

asymmetrical tonic reflex

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient diagnosed with chronic bronchitis after completing a lengthy chart review. Which of the following would be the BEST method to determine if the patient would benefit from suctioning? Chest x-ray Pulmonary function tests Auscultation Culture specimen

auscultation

A physical therapist assistant attempts to select an assistive device for a 46-year-old female that is partial weight bearing on the right lower extremity. Which of the following assistive devices permits partial weight bearing and requires the patient to exhibit significant coordination? Axillary crutches Bilateral canes Single cane Walker

axillary crutches

application of which of the following do not require sterile technique? 1. bandage 2.dressing 3.medication 4.towel

bandage ( minimal contact with wound)

A physical therapist assistant prepares to initiate an exercise program for a patient with diabetes mellitus. Which objective measure would be the MOST appropriate to assess in order to avoid significant complications from exercise? Systolic blood pressure Respiratory rate Blood glucose values Oxygen saturation rate

blood glucose values

A physical therapist assistant works on transfer activities with a patient diagnosed with a complete C5 spinal cord injury. Which of the following muscles would the patient be able to utilize during the training session? Brachioradialis Pronator teres Extensor carpi radialis brevis Latissimus dorsi

brachioradialis

A physical therapist assistant performs a cervical screening on a patient diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis. Assuming normal cervical spine biomechanics, which spinal segments are responsible for the majority of rotation in the cervical spine? C1-C2 C3-C4 C4-C5 C6-C7

c1-c2

A postmenopausal patient recently diagnosed with osteoporosis is seen in physical therapy status post compression fracture of T6. The patient is fairly active and does not take any medication, however, was instructed to take daily supplements. What are the MOST appropriate daily supplements? Potassium and vitamin D Calcium and vitamin D Calcium and vitamin E Potassium and vitamin E

calcium ad vit d

A physical therapist assistant performs passive stretching of a patient's plantar flexors with the patient positioned in supine. The patient was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis approximately one year ago and has recently experienced a significant increase in plantar flexor spasticity. When stretching the patient the physical therapist assistant identifies a cyclical contraction and relaxation of the muscle. What is the MOST appropriate term to describe this finding? Rigidity Clonus Dystonia Ballismus

clonus

A physical therapist assistant completes a portion of a cranial nerve assessment by examining the facial nerve. Which of the following tests would be the MOST useful when assessing this particular nerve? Close the eyes tightly Listen to a watch ticking Say "ahhh" Assess face sensation

close the eyes tightly

A physical therapist assistant returning to the physical therapy department observes a patient trip over a waiting room chair and fall to the ground. The patient denies being hurt although he is unable to stand without assistance. What is the MOST appropriate action? 1.Complete an incident report 2.Ask the supervising physical therapist to complete the incident report 3.Ask the department administrator to complete the incident report 4.An incident report is not necessary since the patient was unharmed

complete incident report

A physical therapist assistant provides a verbal update on a 26-year-old female rehabilitating from a brain injury as part of a team conference. The physical therapist assistant indicates that the patient demonstrates goal directed behavior, but needs frequent cueing. The patient seems to have an awareness of self and others, however continues to have significant memory deficits. What is the MOST appropriate classification for this patient using the Rancho Los Amigos Cognitive Functioning Scale? Confused, agitated Confused, inappropriate Confused, appropriate Automatic, appropriate

confused, appropraite

23. A patient diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis exhibits a forward stooped posture. As part of the patient's care plan the physical therapist assistant selects a number of active exercises that promote improved posture. Which upper extremity proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation pattern would be the MOST appropriate to achieve the objective?D1 extensionD1 flexionD2 extensionD2 flexion

d2 flexion

A physical therapist assistant is gait training a patient who has obstructive pulmonary disease. When assessing the patient's respiratory status what should the physical therapist assistant expect to find . The thorax size decreased. 2. Decreased rib excursion with respirations. 3. An uneven rise between the two sides of the thorax. 4. A decreased respiratory rate

decreased rib excursion with respirations

A physical therapist assistant elects to terminate an exercise session after recording a patient's blood pressure as 165/105 mm Hg and pulse as 140 beats per minute. Assuming the patient's blood pressure was recorded as 125/85 mm Hg and the pulse as 72 beats per minute at rest, which finding was MOST responsible for the exercise being terminated? 1.The systolic blood pressure response 2.The diastolic blood pressure response 3.The systolic and diastolic blood pressure responses 4.The heart rate response

diastolic response

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient ambulating with a right transtibial prosthesis. The physical therapist assistant notes that the socket is positioned with an excessive anterior tilt. Which deviation would MOST likely occur with this type of malalignment? Right lateral trunk lean Insufficient knee flexion Circumduction Excessive knee flexion

excessive knee flexion

A physical therapist assistant works with an 82-year-old female recently admitted to an acute care unit with a diagnosis of congestive heart failure. The patient's medical record indicates that the patient was prescribed a diuretic medication. Which of the following restrictions would be the MOST likely based on the prescribed pharmacological agent? Fluid restrictions Bedrest orders Weight bearing restrictions Lifting precautions

fluid restriction

A physical therapist assistant treats a 26-year-old female with idiopathic scoliosis. The medical record indicates the presence of a mild left thoracic, right lumbar curve. Which active movement would be MOST beneficial when attempting to identify the presence of a posterior rib hump? Left sidebending Right sidebending Forward flexion Extension

forward flexion

A physical therapist assistant works with a six-year-old girl that sustained a head injury from a motor vehicle accident. During the 30 minute session the physical therapist assistant has extreme difficulty maintaining the patient's attention. Which area of the brain was MOST likely involved in the accident? Frontal Temporal Parietal Occipital

frontal

An eight-year-old girl with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is evaluated in physical therapy. The girl wears a wrist splint when she is in school in order to assist her with writing activities. Which type of splint is described in this scenario? Resting splint Corrective splint Dynamic splint Functional splint

functional splint

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient diagnosed with Graves' disease. The patient presents with tachycardia, restlessness, exophthalmos, and fatigue during exercise. Which additional symptom would the patient MOST likely exhibit? Poor peripheral circulation Decrease in deep tendon reflexes Heat intolerance Disproportionate weight gain to caloric intake

heat intolerance

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital treats a patient diagnosed with liver disease. The physical therapist assistant notes that the patient's skin and eyes appear to have a yellow tint. Which of the following conditions is MOST consistent with this type of clinical presentation? Human immunodeficiency virus Hepatitis Tuberculosis Meningitis

hepatitis

A physical therapist assistant classifies a patient's posture as lordotic after completing a postural assessment. Which muscle group would you expect to be shortened based on the results of the postural assessment? Intercostals Hip flexors Scapula retractors Abdominals

hip flexors

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a 66-year-old male with right hemiplegia. The medical record indicates the patient has Broca's aphasia. Which of the following objective findings is NOT associated with this condition? Impaired ability to name objects Difficulty with verbal expression Diminished writing skills Impaired comprehension of spoken language

impaired comprehension of spoken language

A water polo player reports diffuse pain in her right shoulder that begins 10-15 minutes after the onset of activity. Assessment reveals subjective reports of pain at 90 degrees of passive and active abduction. Medial and lateral rotation range of motion is within normal limits. Resistive isometrics are strong and painful for flexion and abduction. What is the MOST likely diagnosis? Adhesive capsulitis Rotator cuff tear Impingement syndrome Upper trapezius strain

impingement syndrome

A physical therapist discusses a patient care plan with a physical therapist assistant in preparation for treatment. The physical therapist indicates that the patient has ideomotor apraxia. Which impairment is MOST consistent with this condition? Difficulty performing sequenced motor acts Inability to carry out purposeful movement on command Failure to recognize familiar objects Inability to respond to stimuli presented contralateral to the side of a brain lesion

inability to carry out purposeful movement on command

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a woman in her third trimester of pregnancy that was admitted to the hospital after complaining of excessive fatigue and lightheadedness. Blood work taken in the hospital confirms the presence of anemia. What is the MOST common medical intervention for an obstetric patient with anemia? Monitoring of glucose stores Iron supplements Insulin therapy Prenatal exercise

iron supp

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital works with a patient on bed mobility activities. The physical therapist assistant would like to incorporate a strengthening activity for the hip extensors that will improve the patient's ability to independently reposition in bed, however the patient does not have adequate strength to perform bridging. What is the MOST appropriate exercise activity? Anterior pelvic tilts Heel slides Straight leg raises Isometric gluteal sets

iso glute sets

A patient diagnosed with chronic osteoarthritis is referred to physical therapy. The patient reports his current pain as a 4 on a visual analogue scale ranging from 0-10. What is the MOST appropriate goal when addressing the patient's pain? Prevent pain Control pain Manage pain Alleviate pain

manage pain

A physical therapist assistant works on mobility training with a patient diagnosed with T2 paraplegia. Which of the following devices would serve as the patient's PRIMARY mode of mobility? Manual wheelchair Power wheelchair Manual and power wheelchairs Wheelchair and knee-ankle-foot orthoses

manual wheelchair A patient with T2 paraplegia would have full upper extremity innervation and would therefore be able to adequately propel a manual wheelchair. However, the patient would not have any innervation of the core or lower extremities and would be unable to use knee-ankle-foot orthoses.

A physical therapist assistant completes a screening on a 26-year-old male. Results of the screening reveal diminished sensation on the palmar aspect of the thumb and index finger. Motor weakness is evident in pronation and wrist flexion. Which nerve is MOST likely involved? Ulnar Median Radial Musculocutaneous

median

A physical therapist assistant would like to adjust the phase duration on an electrotherapy device. To adjust phase duration, which of the following buttons would be altered? Milliamperes Pulses per second Microseconds Ramp

microseconds

A physical therapist assistant works on preambulation activities with a 20-month-old child diagnosed with developmental delay. As part of the program the physical therapist assistant applies manual approximation at the shoulders and pelvis in order to promote upper and lower extremity stability. What is the MOST appropriate developmental position to utilize when performing this technique? Kneeling Half kneeling Modified plantigrade Standing

modified plantigrade

A physical therapist assistant instructs a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to ambulate with a walker. The patient was recently placed on supplemental oxygen using a flow rate of 2 liters per minute. What is the MOST common method of oxygen administration? Arterial line Nasogastric tube Intravenous line Nasal cannula

nasal cannula

A physical therapist assistant uses mechanical spinal traction to temporarily increase the size of the intervertebral foramen on a patient diagnosed with foraminal stenosis. Which of the following spinal positions would BEST accomplish the physical therapist assistant's objective? Neutral and extension Neutral and flexion Extension and flexion Hyperextension and hyperflexion

neutral and flexion

A physical therapist assistant sets the parameters of an iontophoresis unit in preparation for treatment on a patient diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis. Which of the following treatment parameters is NOT relevant when utilizing iontophoresis? Treatment time Current amplitude On time/off time ratio Electrode configuration

on time/off time ratio

A physical therapist assistant works with a patient who experiences hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands secondary to a tumor. Which condition would MOST likely be associated with hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands? Cardiac arrhythmias Osteopenia Muscle spasms Obesity

osteopena

A patient expresses that she has gone through menopause and does not want to take hormone replacement therapy. The PRIMARY goal of hormone replacement therapy is to decrease the risk of acquiring which of the following conditions? Coronary heart disease Cervical cancer Pregnancy Osteoporosis

osteoporosis

A physical therapist assistant reviews the medical record of a 67-year-old male recently admitted to the hospital. The medical record indicates the patient is currently taking levodopa. Which condition is commonly associated with the use of this drug? Multiple sclerosis Parkinson's disease Myasthenia gravis Guillain-Barre syndrome

parkingsons

a pta works on a transfer with a pt taking a calcium channel blocker, which side effect is most LIKELY to occur due to use of this medication? 1.Postural hypotension 2. tachycardia 3. sedation 4. cardiac arrhythmia

postural hypotension

A physical therapist assistant observes an infant positioned in pivot prone. Which neurodevelopmental posture would be a precursor to this position? Bridging Modified plantigrade Quadruped Prone on elbows

prone on elbows

A physical therapist assistant employed in an outpatient rehabilitation center works with a patient status post knee surgery. The patient is presently using a straight leg immobilizer that maintains the knee in an extended position. Which variable would MOST influence the decision to discontinue the knee immobilizer? Edema Active range of motion Quadriceps control Pain

quad control

A physical therapist instructs a physical therapist assistant to perform neuromuscular electrical stimulation to the wrist extensors of a patient rehabilitating from a wrist injury. After setting up the patient according to the specified parameters provided by the physical therapist, the physical therapist assistant believes the muscle contraction produces too much radial deviation and insufficient wrist extension. What is the MOST appropriate physical therapist assistant action? Increase the current intensity Reposition the electrodes Alter the wave form of the current Discuss the situation with the supervising physical therapist

reposition electrodes

A physical therapist assistant positions a patient with T6 paraplegia in long sitting on a mat table. The physical therapist assistant's goal is to improve the patient's trunk control by facilitating cocontraction of antagonists. Which of the following facilitation techniques would be the MOST useful? Rhythmic initiation Hold-relax Rhythmic stabilization Contract-relax

rhythmic stabilization

A 66-year-old male rehabilitating from a shoulder injury uses an upper body ergometer as part of a rehabilitation program. The physical therapist assistant would like the patient to use the ergometer at 40 revolutions per minute for 12 minutes. The patient maintains an active lifestyle despite the implantation of a fixed rate pacemaker six years ago. What is the MOST appropriate method to monitor the intensity of exercise during the session? Heart rate Blood pressure Respiration rate Rating of perceived exertion

rpe

A physical therapist assistant treats a patient diagnosed with rotator cuff tendonitis. During the session the physical therapist assistant identifies weakness in several scapular stabilizers. Which muscle plays an active role in upward rotation of the scapula? Serratus anterior Rhomboid major Rhomboid minor Pectoralis minor

serratus anterior

A physical therapist assistant observes evidence of the forward protective extension reaction while treating a six-month-old infant. Which position would be the MOST appropriate to observe this reaction? Pivot prone Prone Quadruped Sitting

sitting

A 79-year-old male patient with diabetes mellitus and a right transfemoral amputation is scheduled to be discharged from an acute care hospital two weeks following surgery. The incision site on the residual limb is not healed and continues to drain. The patient requires maximal assistance for all transfers. What is the MOST appropriate discharge destination for the patient? Home with a 24 hour home health aide Rehabilitation hospital Skilled nursing facility Ambulatory care facility

skilled nursing facility

A physical therapist assistant is teaching diaphragmatic breathing to a patient. Which patient action would be the MOST appropriate to facilitate awareness of using the diaphragm? Flex at the waist while standing Perform a sit-up Huff Sniff

sniff

A physical therapist assistant performs gait training activities with an eight-year-old child who utilizes a reciprocating gait orthosis. Which medical diagnosis is MOST often associated with the use of this type of orthotic device? Cerebral palsy Down syndrome Legg-Calve-Perthes disease Spina bifida

spina bifida

A physical therapist assistant places a tuning fork over the medial surface of the tibia, approximately 10 centimeters above the medial malleolus. What is this assessment procedure MOST likely used to identify? Anterior compartment syndrome Osteochondroma Stress fracture Tarsal tunnel syndrome

stress fracture

A physical therapist assistant is treating a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with leukemia. The parents of the boy have asked staff members not to inform the boy of his medical diagnosis. During a treatment session the boy directly asks the physical therapist assistant about his illness. What is the MOST appropriate action? 1.Attempt to redirect the boy's attention to a different topic 2.Inform the boy that you have limited access to his medical record 3.Inform the boy about his medical diagnosis 4.Suggest the boy speak to his doctor

suggest the boy speak tohis doc

A physical therapist assistant works with a 54-year-old female rehabilitating from a motor vehicle accident on standing balance in the parallel bars. Suddenly the patient appears to lose consciousness and is lowered to the floor by the physical therapist assistant. Physical examination reveals pallor, sweating, and pupil dilation. The patient's pulse is weak and rapid, while the rate of breathing is increased and shallow. What is the MOST appropriate position for the patient? 1.Sidelying 2.Supine with the head slightly elevated 3.Supine with the legs slightly elevated 4.Sitting with an external support

supine with legs slightly elevated

A physical therapist assistant employed in a rehabilitation hospital reviews the medical record of a 26-year-old patient recently admitted to the facility. The medical record indicates that the patient sustained a spinal cord injury four weeks ago in a diving accident. Which medical diagnosis would result in the patient being MOST susceptible to autonomic dysreflexia? T4 paraplegia T12 paraplegia Cauda equina injury Posterior cord syndrome

t4 paraplegia Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition that occurs in patients with complete spinal cord injuries above the T6 level. Options 3 and 4 are examples of incomplete spinal cord injuries, therefore autonomic dysreflexia would be less likely with these conditions.

A patient diagnosed with right bicipital tendonitis performs upper extremity resistance exercises using a piece of elastic tubing. What muscle is emphasized when laterally rotating the involved extremity against resistance? Teres minor Pectoralis major Teres major Subscapularis

teres minor

A physical therapist assistant observes a physical therapist perform mobilization on a patient rehabilitating from a radial head fracture. The large amplitude movement is directed perpendicular to the concave joint surface and is designed to increase periarticular extensibility. Which mobilization grade is MOST consistent with this description? I II III IV

three

A physical therapist assistant discusses the status of a patient post surgery with a physician. During the discussion the physician cautions the physical therapist assistant to be alert for any signs or symptoms of pulmonary embolism. Which scenario is MOST associated with this medical condition? Depleted body electrolytes Excessive systemic insulin Bladder distention Thrombus formation

thrombus formation

A physical therapist assistant assesses the gait of a 62-year-old male with peripheral neuropathy. The physical therapist assistant observes that the patient's right foot has a tendency to slap the ground during the loading response. Weakness of which muscle would MOST likely be associated with this finding? Iliopsoas Tibialis anterior Tibialis posterior Gastrocnemius

tibialis anterior

A patient with a recent stroke affecting the right hemisphere displays signs consistent with pusher syndrome. While practicing seated balance reactions, which direction would the patient MOST likely lean? Forward Backward To the right To the left

to the left

A physical therapist assistant completes a biomechanical analysis of a patient's gait in a gait analysis laboratory. If the physical therapist assistant classifies stages of the gait cycle using Rancho Los Amigos terminology, which of the following terms would NOT be utilized? Initial contact Midstance Toe off Terminal swing

toe off Traditional gait terminology uses points in time to identify different portions of the gait cycle, while Rancho Los Amigos terminology uses phases of gait that each have a start point and end point. Initial contact, midstance, and terminal swing are all terms used as part of the Rancho Los Amigos terminology, while toe off is not.

A physical therapist assistant that recently returned from maternity leave reviews her daily patient schedule. Her first patient is a 46-year-old male that is referred to physical therapy for wound care. The patient's medical record indicates that he is HIV positive. What is the MOST appropriate physical therapist assistant action? Consult with the supervising physical therapist Ask another physical therapist assistant to treat the patient Treat the patient Contact the referring physician to discuss the treatment orders

treat the patient

Which component of the exercise prescription should the physical therapist assistant emphasize to minimize the risk of patients developing ventricular dysrhythmias during exercise in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation? Mode Warm-up Duration Cool-down

warm up

a physical therapist assistant determines that a pts abnormal gait is ataxic? How would this bets be characterized? 1. wide BOS with exaggerated movements 2.legs crossing the midline 3.small shuffling steps and fesstation 4.high stepping with foot slap

wide base of support with exaggerated movements