Giles C

Question 1

A physical therapist designs an exercise program for a patient several weeks following cardiac transplantation. Which of the following would be most essential to incorporate into the patient’s exercise program based on the transplantation?

a. Increased warm-up and cool down period
b. Increased duration of training sessions
c. Increased target heart rate during exercise
d. Increased monitoring of exercise intensity through heart rate

Answer 1

a. Increased warm-up and cool down period

Question 2

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Question 3

A physical therapist applies passive overpressure to the spine of a patient referred to physical therapy with back pain. The patient reports back and leg symtoms with extension overpressure, however, he denies the presence of symptoms with flexion. This finding is MOST consistent with:

Lumbar disk lesion
Lumbar muscle strain
Sacroiliac joint sprain
Spinal stenosis

Answer 3

Spinal stenosis

Question 4

A patient who recently underwent a total knee arthroplasty is treated in his home by a physical therapist. While reviewing the patient’s medical history and hospital discharge instructions, the therapist notes that the surgical incision was closed with staples. This form of wound closure is BEST classified as:

Primary intention
Delayed primary intention
Secondary intention
Tertiary intention

Answer 4

Primary intention

Question 5

A physical therapist works with a patient who has been instructed to take non-steoridal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help control their symptoms of arthritis. The therapist educates the patient that overuse of NSAIDs can result in gastrointestinal damage. This side effect is caused by the inhibition of the production of which hormones?

Angiotensin
Erythropoietin
Prostaglandins
Gastrin

Answer 5

Prostaglandins

Question 6

A physical therapist treats a 30-year-old female in an acute care setting that was admitted with insidious respiratory issues and small, red nodules (granulomas) on her face, particularly surrounding her mouth. These clinical findings are typical of:

Systemic sclerosis
Bronchiectasis
Sarcoidosis
Phenylketonuria

Answer 6

Sarcoidosis

Question 7

An 18-year-old male sustained a patella fracture in a motor vehicle accident. The patient’s knee is maintained in extension using a straight leg knee immobilizer. Which gait deviation would be MOST likely when using this type of immobilizer?

Vaulting
Antalgic gait
Increased plantar flexion
Trendelenburg gait

Answer 7

Vaulting

Question 8

A physical therapist hypothesizes that a patient’s chronic lower extremity swelling is due to lymphedema. Which of the following symptoms is MOST consistent with the later stages of this condition?

a. Swelling that is relieved by elevation
b. Swelling proximal to the site of lymph dysfunction
c. Fibrotic changes of the dermis
d. Pitting edema

Answer 8

c. Fibrotic changes of the dermis

Question 9

A physical therapist grades a patient’s ankle strength as 4+/5 for the dorsiflexors and a 3+/5 for the plantar flexors. Assuming that the patient demonstrates no compensation for the muscular impairments, which deviation is MOST likely during the foot flat to midstance phase of gait?

a. Excessive dorsiflexion
b. Foot maintained on plantar flexion
c. Inadequate toe off
d. Decreased knee flexion

Answer 9

Excessive dorsiflexion

Question 10

A 16-year-old female walks with a toe-in gait. Which objective findings would MOST likely contribute to this type of gait deviation?

a. 15 degree Q angle
b. 20 degree Q angle
c. 18 degrees femoral anteversion
d. 7 degrees femoral anteversion

Answer 10

c.18 degrees femoral anteversion

Question 11

A physical therapy works with a patient diagnosed with congestive heart failure who presents with dyspnea during ambulation. The patient has an ejection fraction of less than 55 percent. Which of the following interventions would be the MOST appropriate?

a. Instruction in pursed-lip breathing
b. Progressive resistive exercises
c. Education on energy conservation
d. Instruction in diaphragmatic breathing

Answer 11

c. Education on energy conservation

Question 12

A physical therapist attempts to determine if a patient with known heart disease is an appropriate candidate for an exercise program. Which scenario would MOST likely exclude the patient from participating?

a. The patient has an ejection fraction of 45%
b. The patient had an uncomplicated myocardial infarction two months ago.
c. The patient’s electrocardiogram shows ST segment depression of one millimeter
d. The patient has ventricular arrhythmias at rest

Answer 12

d. The patient has ventricular arrhythmias at rest

Question 13

A physical therapist attempts to implement a formal exercise program for a patient three weeks following cardiac transplantation. Which physiologic response should the therapist anticipate based on the transplantation?

a. Increased resting heart rate
b. Increased heart rate response with exercise
c. Increased peak heart rate during exercise
d. Increased age-predicted maximal heart rate

Answer 13

a. Increased resting heart rate

Question 14

A physical therapist employed in an outpatient private practice receives a referral for a patient diagnosed with spondylolisthesis. Which of the following scenarios would be MOST consistent with the medical diagnosis?

a. A 13-year-old female gymnast with no significant medical history
b. A 17-year-old female tennis player with a 15 degree lateral curvature of the spine
c. A 28-year-old male machinist with a history of recurrent low back pain
d. A 67-year-old male with a previous diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis

Answer 14

a. A 13-year-old female gymnast with no significant medical history

Question 15

A patient diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome is referred to physical therapy. Which of the following signs and symptoms is NOT consistent with this syndrome?

Distension of the abdomen
Swelling in the facial area
Adrenal hypoplasia
Cardiac hypertrophy

Answer 15

Adrenal hypoplasia

Question 16

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Question 17

A physical therapist works with a patient status post left CVA with right hemiplegia. Which therapeutic postion would be MOST difficult for the patient to maintain based on their diagnosis?

a. Half-kneel with involved leg anterior
b. Half-kneel with involved leg posterior
c. Bilateral tall kneeling
d. Bilatral lower extremity bridge

Answer 17

b. Half-kneel with involved leg posterior

Question 18

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Question 19

A 42-year-old female is admitted to a rehabilitation hospital after sustaining a stroke. During the examination the physical therapist identifies significant sensory deficits in the anterolateral spinothalamic system. Which sensation would be MOST affected?

Barognosis
Knesthesia
Graphesthesia
Temperature

Answer 19

Temperature

Question 20

A 13-year-old girl discusses the possibility of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with an orthopedic surgeon. The girl injured her knee while playing soccer and is concerned about the future impact of the injury on her athletic career. Which of the following factors would have the GREATEST influence on her candidacy for surgery?

a. Anthropometric measurements
b. Hamstrings quadriceps strength ratio
c. Skeletal maturity
d. Somatotype

Answer 20

c. Skeletal maturity

Question 21

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Question 22

A physical therapist uses the body mass index scale as a means of assessing a patient’s total body composition. The therapist determines the body mass index by dividing the body weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. Which of the following values would be the MOST representative of a healthy male or female?

14 kg/m²
22 kg/m²
28 kg/m²
37 kg/m²

Answer 22

22 kg/m²

Question 23

A physical therapist treats a patient referred to physical therapy with incontinence. The patient describes her difficulty beginning after the birth of her son. After completing an examination the therapist concludes that the patient has extremely weak pelvic floor muscles. When instructing the patient in a pelvic floor muscle strengthening program, the MOST appropriate position to initiate treatment is:

Sidelying
Sitting
Standing
Supine

Answer 23

Supine

Question 24

A physical therapist prepares to initiate an examination procedure by placing a patient in long sitting on a mat table. This position would be the MOST appropriate to initiate:

Craig’s test
Dix-hallpike maneuver
Ely’s test
Vertebral artery test

Answer 24

Dix-hallpike maneuver

Question 25

A physical therapist employed in a school setting observes a 10-year-old boy attempt to move from the floor to a standing position. During the activity, the boy has to push on his legs with his hands in order to attain an upright position. This type of finding is MOST commonly associated with:

Cystic fibrosis
Down syndrome
Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy

Answer 25

Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Question 26

A physical therapist administers the Mini-Mental State Examination to a patient recently admitted to an acute care medical facility. The MINIMUM patient score necessary in order to avoid being classified as possessing a cognitive impairment would be:

18
24
30
34

Answer 26

24

Question 27

A physical therapist employed in an inpatient rehabilitation center works with a patient rehabilitating from a total knee arthroplasty. Which treatment activity would be the MOST appropriate to delegate to a physical therapy aide?

a. Monitoring vital signs
b. Measuring knee range of motion with a goniometer
c. Observing a patient complete a mat exercise program
d. Recording modality parameters in the medical record

Answer 27

c. Observing a patient complete a mat exercise program

Question 28

A physical therapist notices a small area of skin irritation under the chin of a patient wearing a Philadelphia collar. The patient expresses that the area is not painful, but is becoming increasingly itchy. The MOST appropriate therapist action is:

a. Instruct the patient to apply 1% hydrocortisone cream to the area twice daily
b. Apply powder to the area and instruct the patient to avoid scratching
c. Provide the patient with a liner to use as a barrier between the skin and the orthosis
d. Discontinue use of the orthosis until the skin has become less irritated

Answer 28

c. Provide the patient with a liner to use as a barrier between the skin and the orthosis

Question 29

A patient with muscle weakness and compromised balance uses a four-point gait pattern with two canes. The physical therapist would like to instruct the patient to ascend and descend the stairs according to the normal flow of traffic. When ascending stairs the MOST practical method is to:

a. Use the handrail with the right hand and place the two canes in the left hand
b. Use the handrail with the left hand and place the two canes in the right hand
c. Place one cane in each hand and avoid using the handrail
d. Place the two canes in the left hand and avoid using the handrail

Answer 29

a. Use the handrail with the right hand and place the two canes in the left hand

Question 30

A patient rehabilitating from a total hip arthroplasty receives home physical therapy services. The patient is currently full weight bearing and is able to ascend and descend stairs independently. The patient expresses that her goal following rehabilitation is to walk one mile each day. The MOST appropriate plan to accomplish the patient’s goal is to:

a. Continue home physical therapy services until the patient’s goal is attained
b. Refer the patient to an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy clinic
c. Design a home exercise program that emphasizes progressive ambulation
d. Admit the patient to a rehabilitation hospital

Answer 30

c.Design a home exercise program that emphasizes progressive ambulation

Question 31

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Question 32

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Question 33

A physical therapist reviews the medical record of a patient with a spinal cord injury. A note recently entered by the physician indicates that the patient contracted a respiratory infection. Which patient would be MOST susceptible to this condition?

a. A patient with complete C4 tetraplegia
b. A patient with a cauda equina lesion
c. A patient with Brown-Sequard’s syndrome
d. A patient with posterior cord syndrome

Answer 33

a. A patient with complete C4 tetraplegia

Question 34

A physical therapist discusses common cognitive and behavioral changes associated with stroke with family members of a patient with right hemisphere damage and resultant left hemiplegia. Which term does NOT accurately describe the most typical patient presentation?

Poor judgment
Impulsive
Quick
Overly cautious

Answer 34

Overly cautious

Question 35

A physicial therapist discusses the process of learnign to drive an adapted van with a patient rehabilitating from a spinal cord injury. What is the HIGHEST spinal cord injury level where this activity would be a realistic independent functional outcome?

C4
C6
T1
T3

Answer 35

C6

Question 36

A physical therapist searches the literature to find an appropriate cardiovascular screening test to identify individuals with known cardiovascular disease who should have a medical examination before starting an exercise program. The physical therapist should choose a screening test with:

a. High positive predictive value
b. Low positive predictive value
c. High discriminant validity
d. High internal consistency

Answer 36

a. High positive predictive value

Question 37

A physical therapist uses repeated contractions to strengthen the quadriceps of a patient that fails to exhibit the desired muscular response throughout a portion of the range of motion. This proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique (PNF) should be applied:

a. With the extremity placed into a shortened range within the pattern
b. At the point where the desired muscular response begins to diminish
c. At the end of the available range of motion
d. With a maximal contraction of the antagonistic muscle group

Answer 37

b. At the point where the desired muscular response begins to diminish

Question 38

The treatment plan for a patient with hemiplegia is based on the theory of reinforcing normal movement through the key points of control and avoiding all reflex movement patterns and associated reactions. This approach MOST closely resembles:

Bobath
Kabat
Rood
Brunnstrom

Answer 38

Bobath

Question 39

A patient with several motor and sensory abnormalities exhibits signs of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Which of the following is NOT an indicator of increased sympathetic involvement?

a. Anxiety, distractibility
b. Mottled, cold, shiny skin
c. Constriction of the pupils
d. Rapid, shallow breathing

Answer 39

Constriction of the pupils

Question 40

A 55-year-old patient, six months status post CVA with right hemiparesis, attends physical therapy on an outpatient basis. As the patient lies supine on the mat, the physical therapist applies resistance to right elbow flexion. The therapist notes mass flexion of the right lower extremity as the resistance is applied. The therapist should document this as:

Raimiste’s phenomenon
Souques’ phenomenon
Coordination synkinesis
Homolateral synkinesis

Answer 40

Homolateral synkinesis

Question 41

A child with a unilateral hip disarticulation works on advanced gait training activities. Which of the foillowing activities would be the MOST difficult for the patient?

Rising from a wheelchair
Ascending stairs with a handrail
Descending stairs with a handrail
Ascending a curb

Answer 41

Ascending a curb

Question 42

A patient rehabilitating from extensive burns to the right upper extremity often complains of severe pain in the arm during physical therapy treatment sessions. The present plan of care emphasizes range of motion, stretching, and positioning. The MOST appropriate action to address the patient’s complaint is to:

a. Reduce the frequency and duration of the treatment sessions
b. Schedule treatment sessions when the patient’s pain medication is most effective
c. Avoid treatment activities that are uncomfortable for the patient
d. Request that the referring physician increase the dosage of the patient’s pain medication

Answer 42

b. Schedule treatment sessions when the patient’s pain medication is most effective

Question 43

A physical therapist conducts an examination on a patient with suspected ulnar nerve palsy. Which finding is MOST consistent with the hypothesized diagnosis?

a. Wasting of the hypothenar eminence
b. Wrist drop with increased flexion of the wrist
c. Increased flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joint
d. Proximal interphalangeal joint hyperextension and slight flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint

Answer 43

a. Wasting of the hypothenar eminence

Question 44

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Question 45

A physical therapist observes that a patient is unable to heel walk during a neurological examination. This objective finding may indicate damage to the:

Corticospinal tract
Reticulospinal tract
Rebrospinal tract
Tectospinal tract

Answer 45

Corticospinal tract

Question 46

A physical therapist works with a patient who has been on bed rest in an acute care hospital for more than a month. Which muscle group and area of the body would the therapist anticipate being MOST affected by the immobilization?

a. Extensor muscles of the upper extremities
b. Flexor muscles of the upper extremities
c. Extensor muscles of the lower extremities
d. Flexor muscles of the lower extremities

Answer 46

c. Extensor muscles of the lower extremities

Question 47

A physical therapist employed in an acute care hospital observes that a patient appears to have recently gained weight. Which medical condition would MOST likely be associated with this type of scenario?

Addison’s disease
Crohn’s disease
Congestive heart failure
Grave’s disease

Answer 47

Congestive heart failure

Question 48

A patient diagnosed with Meniere’s disease presents with vertigo. Which sign or symptom is inconsistent with this medical condition?

Hearning loss
Tinnitus
Vertigo lasting 30 minutes
Head tilt to one side

Answer 48

Head tilt to one side

Question 49

A physical therapist reads in the medical chart that a patient is taking digitalis. The patient is MOST likely taking this medication to treat:

Angina
Atrial fibrillation
Hypertension
Thrombus formation

Answer 49

Atrial fibrillation

Question 50

A physical therapist reads in a medical chart that a patient’s spinal cord injury was classified as “B” according to the ASIA Impairment Scale. What would be the MOST likely clinical presentation of this patient?

a. Intact anal sensation, normal bowel control
b. Intact anal sensation, absence of bowel control
c. Absent anal sensation, normal bowel control
d. Absent anal sensation, absence of bowel control

Answer 50

b. Intact anal sensation, absence of bowel control

Question 51

A physical therapist discusses the plan of care for a 61-year-old male diagnosed with a spinal stenosis with the referring physician. During the discussion the physician shows the therapist a picture of the patient’s spine obtained through computed tomography. What color would vertebrae appear when using this imaging technique?

Black
Light gray
Dark gray
White

Answer 51

White

Question 52

A physical therapist identifies a number of substances that influence circulation. Which of the following substances is stimulated by decreased arterial pressure and acts as a vasoconstrictor?

Angiotensin
Histamine
Epinephrine
Norepinephrine

Answer 52

Angiotensin

Question 53

A physical therapist attempts to auscultate over the aortic valve. Which of the following areas is the MOST appropriate to isolate the desired valve?

a. Second left intercostal space at the left sternal border
b. Second right intercostal space at the right sternal border
c. Fourth left intercostals space along the lower left sternal border
d. Fifth left intercostal space at the midclavicular line

Answer 53

b. Second right intercostal space at the right sternal border

Question 54

A physical therapist attempts to estimate the energy expenditure in calories for a patient performing a selected activity for 15 minutes. Assuming the therapist has a metabolic equivalent value for the activity, what other variables are necessary in order to obtain an estimate of the patient’s energy expenditure?

Patient’s height
Patient’s body weight
Patient’s stroke volume
Patient’s residual volume

Answer 54

Patient’s body weight

Question 55

A physical therapist completes a cranial nerve assessment on a patient with a suspected neurological injury by using a tongue depressor. Which cranial nerves are MOST commonly assessed with this type of equipment?

VII, IX
IX, X
X, XI
XI, XII

Answer 55

IX, X

Question 56

A physical therapist critically analyzes the methodology used in a published research study. Which type of sampling procedure would result in the GREATEST degree of sampling error?

Simple random sample
Systematic sample
Cluster sample
Stratified random sample

Answer 56

Cluster sample

Question 57

A patient with known cardiac disease experiences angina while exercising on a recumbent bicycle. The patient self-administers a nitroglycerin tablet to control the angina. Nitroglycerin helps to control this symptom by:

a. Decrease heart rate
b. Inhibiting vasospasm of the coronary arteries
c. Dilating the peripheral arteris and veins
d. Decreasing platelet aggregation

Answer 57

c. Dilating the peripheral arteris and veins

Question 58

A physical therapist works with a patient who has sustained a lesion to the long thoracic nerve. What objective finding would this patient MOST likely demonstrate?

a. Decreased sensation on the lateral forearm
b. Atrophy of the deltoid muscle
c. Inability to elevate the arm overhead
d. Fair strength with shoulder extension

Answer 58

Inability to elevate the arm overhead

Question 59

A physical therapist reads in the medical record that a patient with suspected cardiovascular disease had a positive graded exercise test. Which place of data would have been the MOST influential when concluding that the test was positive?

Angina symptoms
Ventricular dysrhthmias
ST segment changes
Supraventricular dysrhythmias

Answer 59

ST segment changes

Question 60

A physical therapist attempts to identify an appropriately sized wheelchair for a patient recently referred to a rehabilitation hospital. The physical therapist determines that the patient’s hup width in sitting and the measurement from the back of the buttocks to the popliteal space are each 16 inches. Given these measurements, which of the following wheelchair specifications would BEST fit the patient?

a. Seat width 16 inches, seat depth 14 inches
b. Seat width 18 inches, set depth 18 inches
c. Seat width 16 inches, seat depth 18 inches
d. Seat width 18 inches, seat depth 14 inches

Answer 60

d. Seat width 18 inches, seat depth 14 inches

Question 61

A physical therapist employed in an acute care hospital conducts an initial interview with a patient referred to physical therapy. During the interview, the therapist asks the patient if he feels dependent on coffee, tea or soft drinks. Which clinical scenario would MOST appropriately warrant this type of question?

a. A 27-year-old female status post arthroscopic medial meniscectomy
b. A 42-year-old male with premature ventricular contractions
c. A 37-year-old female with restrictive pulmonary diease
d. A 57-year-old male with respiratory alkalosis

Answer 61

b. A 42-year-old male with premature ventricular contractions

Question 62

A patient diagnosed with C5 tetraplegia receives physical therapy services in a rehabilitation hospital. The patient has made good progress in therapy and is scheduled for discharge in one week. During a treatment session, the patient informs the physical therapist that one day in the future he will walk again. The MOST appropriate therapist response is:

a. Your level of injury makes walking unrealistic
b. Future advances in spinal cord research may make your goal a reality
c. You can have a rewarding life even if confined to a wheelchair
d. Completing your exercises on a regular basis will help you to walk

Answer 62

b. Future advances in spinal cord research may make your goal a reality

Question 63

A physical therapist performs several surface palpitations on a patient diagnosed with an acromioclavicular injury. Which anatomical landmark is MOST consistent with the location of the therapist’s finger?

Manubrium
Sternoclavicular joint
Suprasternal notch
Xiphoid process

Answer 63

c. Suprasternal notch

Question 64

A physical therapist discusses the plan of care for a patient rehabilitating from total hip arthroplasty surgery (posterolateral approach) with the patient’s surgeon. During the discussion the surgeon indicates that he would like the patient to continue to wear a knee immobilizer in order to help prevent hip dislocation. The PRIMARY rationale for this action is:

a. The knee immobilizer serves as a constant reminder to the patient that the hip is susceptible to injury
b. The knee immobilier reduces hip flexion by maintaining knee extension
c. The knee immobilizer facilitates quadriceps contraction during weight bearing activities
d. The knee immobilizer limits postoperative edema and as a result, promotes lower extremity stability

Answer 64

b. The knee immobilier reduces hip flexion by maintaining knee extension

Question 65

A 46-year-old male rehabilitating from a radial head fracture misses the third consecutive physical therapy treatment session. The therapist called the patient after the second missed appointment, but did not receive a return phone call. The MOST appropriate physical therapist action is:

a. Contact the patient’s insurance provider
b. Design a home exercise program for the patient
c. Schedule the patient with another physical therapist
d. Discharge the patient from the physical therapy

Answer 65

d. Discharge the patient from the physical therapy

Question 66

A physical therapist 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. The MOST appropriate action is:

a. Begin aggressive debridement
b. Recommend a wound culture
c. Apply aseptic ointment to the wound
d. Discontinue whirlpool treatments

Answer 66

d. Discontinue whirlpool treatments

Question 67

A physical therapist works with a patient who is in the initial stages of recovery after a traumatic brain injury. Based on the typical pattern of spasticity experienced with upper motor neuron disorders, which muscle would be MOST likely affected?

Flexor carpi radialis
Supinator
Triceps
Extensor digitorum

Answer 67

Flexor carpi radialis

Question 68

A physical therapist prepares to administer rescue breathing to a 45-year-old male that is unresponsive. The MOST appropriate method to administer rescue breathing is:

a. Mouth to mouth ventilation
b. Mouth to nose ventilation
c. Mouth to mouth and nose ventilation
d. Mouth to mask ventilation

Answer 68

d.Mouth to mask ventilation

Question 69

A physical therapist instructs a patient rehabilitating from a low back injury in a series of five pelvic stabilization exercises. The patient indicates he understands the exercises, however, frequently becomes confused and is unable to perform them correctly. The MOST appropriate therapist action is:

a. Repeat the exercise instructions
b. Reduce the number of exercises in the series
c. Select a different treatment option
d. Conclude the patient is not a candidate for physical therapy

Answer 69

b. Reduce the number of exercises in the series

Question 70

A physical therapist employed in a rehabilitation hospital prepares to perfrom a stand pivot transfer with a 42-year-old male rehabilitating from a motor vehicle accident. Prior to initiating the transfer, the therapist notices that the patient is wearing only a pair of hospital issued non-skid socks on his feet. The MOST appropriate therapist action is to:

a. Ask another therapist for assistance and complete a dependent transfer
b. Have the patient complete a sliding board transfer
c. Perform the stand pivot transfer without socks
d. Perform the stand pivot transfer with the patient wearing the hospital-issued socks

Answer 70

d. Perform the stand pivot transfer with the patient wearing the hospital-issued socks

Question 71

A physical therapist treats a patient diagnosed with chronic arterial disease. The patient exhibits cool skin, decreased sensitivity to temperature changes, and intermittent claudication with activity. The primary treatment goal is to increase the patient’s ambulation distance. The MOST appropriate ambulation parameters to facilitate achievement of the goal are:

Short duration, frequent intervals
Short duration, infrequent intervals
Long duration, frequent intervals
Long duration, infrequent intervals

Answer 71

Short duration, frequent intervals

Question 72

A patient rehabilitating from a bone marrow transplant is referred to physical therapy for instruction in an exercise program. The physical therapist plans to use oxygen saturation measurements to gain additional objective date related to the patient’s exercise tolerance. Assuming the patient’s oxygen saturation was measured as 95% at rest, which of the following guidelines would be the MOST appropriate?

a. Discontinue exercises when the patient’s oxygen saturation is below 95%
b. Discontinue exercise when the the patient’s oxygen saturation is below 90%
c. Discontinue exercise when the the patient’s oxygen saturation is below 85%
d. Discontinue exercise when the the patient’s oxygen saturation is below 80%

Answer 72

b. Discontinue exercise when the the patient’s oxygen saturation is below 90%

Question 73

A 52-year-old female is restricted from physical therapy for two days following surfical insertion of a urinary catheter. This type of procedure is MOST commonly performed with a:

Condom catheter
Foley catheter
Suprapubic catheter
Swan-Ganz catheter

Answer 73

Suprapubic catheter

Question 74

A physical therapist examines an infant in the neonatal intensive care unit. Which information from the medical chart provides the MOST compelling evidence that the child is at high risk for cerebral palsy?

a. Birth weight of 2000 grams
b. Apgar score of 8 at 1 minute
c. Periventricular leukomalacia
d. Premature birth at 34 weeks

Answer 74

c. Periventricular leukomalacia

Question 75

A physical therapist notices that a patient with a transfemoral amputation consistently takes a longer step with the prosthetic limb than the contralateral limb. The MOST likely cause of the deviation is:

a. Weak abdominal muscles
b. Hip flexion contracture
c. Weak residual limb
d. Fear and insecurity

Answer 75

b. Hip flexion contracture

Question 76

A physical therapist prepares to perform manual vibration as a means of airway clearance with a patient diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. When performing the vibration the MOST appropriate form of manual contact over the affected lung segment is:

a. Contact with a cupped hand
b. Contact with the entire palmar surface of the hand
c. Contact with the ulnar border of the hand
d. Contact with the distal phalanx of the middle finger

Answer 76

b. Contact with the entire palmar surface of the hand

Question 77

A patient reports to a scheduled physical therapy session 25 minutes late. The patient has not been seen previously in physical therapy and was scheduled in a 45 minute block of time. The patient referral indicates the patient is 10 days status post arthroscopic medial meniscectomy. The MOST appropriate therapist action is:

a. Begin the examination
b. Design a home exercise program
c. Consult with the patient’s physician
d. Ask the patient to reschedule

Answer 77

Begin the examination

Question 78

A physical therapist reviews a laboratory report for a 41-year-old male diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which of the following would be considered a normal hemoglobin value?

10 gm/dL
15 gm/dL
20 gm/dL
25 gm/dL

Answer 78

15 gm/dL

Question 79

A patient diagnosed with an incomplete spinal cord lesion presents with muscle paralysis on the ipsilateral side of the lesion and a loss of pain, temperature, and sensitivity on the contralateral side of the lesion. This presentation BEST describes:

a. Posterior cord syndrome
b. Central cord syndrome
c. Anterior cord syndrome
d. Brown-sequard’s syndrome

Answer 79

d. Brown-sequard’s syndrome

Question 80

A physical therapist reviews a physician’s examination of a patient scheduled for physical therapy. The examination identifies excessive medial displacement of the elbow during ligamentous testing. Which ligament is typically involved with medial instability of the elbow?

Annular
Radial collateral
Ulnar collateral
Volar radioulnar

Answer 80

Ulnar collateral

Question 81

A physical therapist performs an examination on a 27-year-old male diagnosed with iliotibial band syndrome. The patient is an avid distance runner who routinely ran between 45-60 miles per week before experiencing pain in his knee. Standing posture reveals a varus position at the knee and a cavus foot. When palpating the lateral portion of the lower, which area would MOST likely exhibit marked tenderness?

a. Lateral femoral condyle
b. Lateral joint line
c. Lateral tibial condyle
d. Fibular head

Answer 81

Lateral femoral condyle

Question 82

The measurement of blood pressure with an aneroid sphygmomanometer is said to have concurrent validity if the pressures measured by the sphygmomanometer are equal to the pressures measured at the same time by:

a. An electrocardiogram
b. A pressure transducer inserted in the artery
c. A physician using a mercury sphygmomanometer
d. A pulse oximeter

Answer 82

b. A pressure transducer inserted in the artery

Question 83

A physical therapist working on an oncology unit reviews the medical chart of a male patient prior to the initiating airway clearance techniques. The patient’s cell counts are as follows: hematocrit 44%, white blood cells 8,500/mm³, platelets 30,000/μ1, hemoglobin level 15 gm/dL. Which blood test value suggests that chest percussion for airway clearance is contraindicated?

Hematocrit
White blood cells
Platelets
Hemoglobin

Answer 83

Platelets

Question 84

A physical therapist treats a patient with a fractured left hip. The patient is weight bearing as tolerated and uses a large base quad cane for gait activities. Correct use of the quad cane would include:

Using the quad cane on the (left/right) with the longer legs positioned (away/toward) from the patient

Answer 84

Using the quad cane on the RIGHT with the longer legs positioned AWAY from the patient

Question 85

A physical therapist inspects a wound that has large quantities of exudate which requires frequent dressing changes. If the therapist applies a dresing that cannot handle the quantity of exudate present, the MOST likely outcome is:

Maceration
Granulation
Epithelialization
Infection

Answer 85

Maceration

Question 86

A physical therapist completes an examination on a 36-year-old female diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. After completing the examination, the therapist should FIRST:

a. Develop long-term goals
b. Develop short-term goals
c. Develop a problem list
d. Justify the need for physical therapy services

Answer 86

Develop a problem list

Question 88

A 21-year-old female is examined in physical therapy after sustaining a grade I ankle sprain two days ago in a marching band competition. The patient’s description of the mechanism injury is consistent with inversion and planter flexion. Which of the following ligaments would MOST likely be affected?

Anterior talofibular ligament
Caleaneofibular ligament
Anterior tibiofibular ligament
Deltoid ligament

Answer 88

Anterior talofibular ligament

Question 89

A 66-year-old female is referred to physical therapy with rheumatoid arthritis. During the examination of the physical therapist notes increased flexion at the proximal interphalangeal joints and hyperextension at the metacarpophalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints. This deformity is MOST representative of:

Boutonniere deformity
Mallet finger
Swan neck deformity
Ulnar drift

Answer 89

Boutonniere deformity

Question 90

A physical therapist adjusts the on:off time on an electrical stimulation unit prior to beginning treatment. When using the unit for muscle re-education the MOST appropriate on:off ratio is:

5:1
15:1
1:5
1:15

Answer 90

1:5

Question 91

A physical therapist is scheduled to administer a whirlpool treatment to a patient that is HIV positive. The therapist is concerned about her ability to complete the treatment since she sustained a small paper cut on her fourth digit approximately three hours ago. The MOST appropriate therapist action is:

a. Refure to treat the patient and document the rationale in the medical record
b. Treat the patient using appropriate medical asepsis
c. Ask the patient to reschedule their appointment
d. Select another appropriate treatment procedure

Answer 91

b. Treat the patient using appropriate medical asepsis

Question 92

A 35-year-old female is admitted to the hospital following a recent illness. Laboratory testing reveals a markedly high platelet count. This finding is typical with:

Emphysema
Metabolic acidosis
Renal failure
Malignancy

Answer 92

Malignancy

Question 93

A patient is positioned in supine with the hips flexed to 90 degrees and the knees extended. As the patient slowly lowers her extended leg towards the horizontal, there is an increase in lordosis of the low back. This finding is indictive of weakness of the:

Hip flexors
Back extensors
Hip extensors
Abdominals

Answer 93

Abdominals

Question 94

In a clinical trial, patient height is measured in centimeters and weight is measured in kilograms. What inference can the physical therapist make about the scale of measurement for height and weight?

a. Height and weight are measurements in the ratio scale
b. Height and weight are measurements on the ordinal scale
c. Height and weight are measurements on the nominal scale
d. Height and weight are measurements on the interval scale

Answer 94

a. Height and weight are measurements in the ratio scale

Question 95

A physical therapist attempts to select an appropriate intervention to treat a patient with a 10 degree limitation in knee extension. Which of the following mobilization techniques would be indicated?

Lateral glide of the patella
Caudal glide of the patella
Posterior glide of the tibia
Anterior glide of the tibia

Answer 95

Anterior glide of the tibia

Question 96

A patient with a right radial head fracture is examined in physical therapy. The patient’s involved elbow range of motions begins at 15 degrees of flexion and ends at 90 degrees of flexion. The physical therapist should record the patient’s elbow range of motion as:

0-15-90
15-0-90
15-90
0-90

Answer 96

15-90

Question 97

A physical therapist attempts to improve a patient’s lower extremity strength. Which proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique would be the MOST appropriate to achieve the therapist’s goals?

Contract-relax
Repeated contractions
Rhythmic stabilization
hold-relax

Answer 97

Repeated contractions

Question 98

When performing range of motion exercises with a patient that sustained a head injury, a physical therapist notes that the patient lacks full elbow extension and classifies the end-feel as hard. The MOST likely cause is:

Heterotopic ossification
Spasticity of the biceps
Anterior capsular tightness
Triceps weakness

Answer 98

Heterotopic ossification

Question 99

A physical therapist conducts a patient history for a female patient diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. Given the capsular pattern of the shoulder, which functional limitation would the patient MOST likely have difficulty with?

a. Reaching across her body
b. Reaching into her back hip pocket
c. Performing a push-up
d. Combing her hair

Answer 99

d. Combing her hair

Question 100

A patient recently diagnosed with end-stage renal disease begins hemodialysis treatments at an outpatient dialysis center. Which frequency and duration of dialysis is MOST typical?

a. One time a week for five hours
b. Two times a week for three hours
c. Three times a week for four hours
d. Five times a week for two hours

Answer 100

c. Three times a week for four hours

Question 101

A physical therapist orders a wheelchair for a patient with C4 tetraplegia. Which wheelchair would be the MOST appropriate for the patient?

a. Manual wheelchair with friction surface handrims
b. Manual wheelchair with handrim projections
c. Power wheelchair with sip and puff controls
d. Power wheelchair with joystick controls

Answer 101

c. Power wheelchair with sip and puff controls

Question 102

PTRP KA NA THIS SEASON! 🫶🏽

Question 103

A physical therapist works with a patient status post stroke on a mat program. The therapist assists the patient in lateral weight shifting activities while positioned in prone on elbows. Which therapeutic exercise technique would allow the patient to improve dynamic stability with this activity?

Alternating isometrics
Approximation
Rhythmic initiation
Timing for emphasis

Answer 103

Approximation

Question 104

A patient with a recent stroke affecting the right hemisphere displays signs consistent with pusher syndrome. While practicing seated balance reactions, this patient would MOST likely lean:

Forward
Backward
To the right
To the left

Answer 104

To the left

Question 105

A physical therapist identifies a limitation in movement after performing a straight leg raise test on a patient in supine. The therapist then passively flexes the patient’s knee on the test leg, but is unable to gain any additional hip flexion range of motion. The MOST likely diagnosis is:

Gluteal bursitis
Hamstrings strain
Sciatic nerve pathology
Trochanteric bursitis

Answer 105

Gluteal bursitis

Question 106

A physical therapist examines a 30-year-old patient that complains of a fullness of the left lower extremity, sensation of tightening skin, and overall aching of the leg. As part of the examination, the therapist attempts to pinch and pick up a fold of skin at the base of the left second toe, but is unable to do so. This type of objective finding is BEST termed:

Stemmer’s sign
Froment’s sign
Tripod sign
Homan’s sign

Answer 106

Stemmer’s sign

Question 107

A physical therapist observes that a patient has difficulty controlling the affected lower extremity during the loading response. This phase is characterized by

(Increased/Decreased) Quadriceps activity and (increased/decreased) Hamstrings activity

Answer 107

INCREASED Quadriceps activity and DECREASED Hamstrings activity

Question 108

A patient has weakness of the quadriceps secondary to a femoral nerve injury. When examining the patient’s gait from heel strike to foot flat, the physical therapist would MOST likely observe the patient compensate for their injury by:

a. Using excessive dorsiflexion
b. Leaning the trunk forward
c. Using excessive knee flexion
d. Vaulting on the contralateral limb

Answer 108

b. Leaning the trunk forward

Question 109

A physician analyzes the results of a magnetic resonance imaging study to determine the extent of a patient’s lung cancer. When staging the patient’s cancer using the TNM system, which of the following factors would NOT be considered?

a. Size of the tumor
b. Involvement of the lymphatic system
c. Rate of growth of the cancer cells
d. Presence of metastasis

Answer 109

c. Rate of growth of the cancer cells

Question 110

A 22-year-old male rehabilitating from a motor vehicle accident is referred to physical therapy for galt training. The patient sustained multiple injuries including a fractured tibia and a traction injury to the brachial plexus. The patient is partial weight bearing and has good upper extremity strength. The MOST appropriate assistive device is:

Axillary crutches
Lofstrand crutches
Walker with platform attachment
cane

Answer 110

b. Lofstrand crutches

Question 111

A patient informs a physical therapist how frustrated she feels after being examined by her physician. The patient explains that she becomes so nervous, she cannot ask any questions during scheduled office visits. The therapist’s MOST appropriate response is to:

a. Offer to go with the patient to her next scheduled physician visit
b. Offer to call the physician and ask any relevant questions
c. Suggest that the patient write down questions for the physician and bring them with her to the next scheduled visit
d. Tell the patient it is a very normal response to be nervous in the presence of a physician

Answer 111

c. Suggest that the patient write down questions for the physician and bring them with her to the next scheduled visit

Question 112

A physical therapist reviewing a patient’s medical record identifies that the patient was recently placed on a corticosteroid medication. Which condition would MOST warrant the use of this type of pharmacological agent?

Dermatitis
Folliculitis
Melanoma
Rosacea

Answer 112

Dermatitis

Question 113

An athlete is forced to contemplate knee surgery after spraining the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while playing soccer. Which situation would provide the MOST direct support for an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

a. Grade III ACL sprain with a grade I posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) strain
b. Grade III ACL sprain with a lateral meniscus tear
c. Grade II ACL sprain with a medial meniscus tear
d. Functional instability

Answer 113

Functional instability

Question 114

A physical therapist employed in a long-term care setting attempts to identify a screening tool that examines a patient’s ability to perform a variety of activities of daily living independently. The therapist would like to readminister the tool to assess patient progress. The MOST appropriate screening tool is the:

Barthel Index
Berg Balance Scale
Functional Reach Test
Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment

Answer 114

Barthel Index

Question 115

A physical therapist uses the rule of nines on a three-year-old child to determine the approximate percentage of the body affected by a burn. When using this assessment tool, which area of the child’s body would be given a higher percentage value compared to an adult?

The head
The trunk
The legs
The genitalia

Answer 115

The head

Question 116

A physical therapist completes a respiratory assessment on a patient with T2 paraplegia. As a component of the assessment, the therapist measures the amount of chest excursion during inspiration. The MOST appropriate patient position to conduct the measurement is

Sitting
Supine
Prone
Sidelying

Answer 116

Supine

Question 117

PTRP KA NA THIS SEASON! 🫶🏽

Question 118

A physical therapist works with a 71-years-old female patient who is status post reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. What is the MOST likely reason the patient had this surgical procedure as opposed to a total shoulder arthroplasty?

a. Fracture of the humerus
b. Glenohumeral osteoarthritis
c. Significant deltoid weakness
d. Irreparable supraspinatus tear

Answer 118

d. Irreparable supraspinatus tear

Question 119

A physical therapist assesses a patient’s sensation of light touch in the lower extremities. The therapist documents that the patient has impaired sensation of the entire right leg, yet normal sensation of the left leg. Which injury is MOST likely present?

a. Compression of a lower extremity peripheral nerve
b. Compression of a lumbar nerve root
c. Spinal cord transection
d. Left hemisphere stroke

Answer 119

d. Left hemisphere stroke

Question 120

An athlete is referred to physical therapy after being diagnosed with apophysitis of the ischial tuberosity. Which mechanism of injury is MOST consistent with this condition?

a. A soccer player kicking a soccer ball
b. A runner competing in the hurdles
c. A tennis player rapidly changing direction
d. A sprinter coming out of the starting blocks

Answer 120

b. A runner competing in the hurdles

Question 121

A physical therapist treats a patient in a hospital setting with a pressure ulcer over the left ischial tuberosity. The patient’s stage III pressure ulcer has healed over time and currently shows characteristics of a stage I pressure ulcer. What ulcer stage should be assigned to the wound?

Stage I ulcer
Modified stage I ulcer
Stage III ulcer
Modified stage III ulcer

Answer 121

Stage III ulcer

Question 122

A physical therapist examines several superficial reflexes on a patient diagnosed with an upper motor neuron lesion. When assessing the cremasteric reflex the MOST appropriate stimulus is:

a. Stroke the skin beneath the costal margins and above the inguinal ligament
b. Stroke the skin of the superior and medial thigh
c. Prick the skin of the perianal region
d. Prick the skin of the glans penis

Answer 122

b. Stroke the skin of the superior and medial thigh

Question 123

A patient is unable to take in an adequate supply of nutrients by mouth due to the side effects of radiation therapy. As a result, the patient’s physician orders the implementation of tube feeding. What type of tube is MOST commonly used for short-term feeding?

Endobronchial
Nasogastric
Endotracheal
Tracheostomy

Answer 123

Nasogastric

Question 124

A physical therapist employed in an acute care hospital prepares to work on standing balance with a patient rehabilitating from abdominal surgery. The patient has been on extended bed rest following the surgical procedure and has only been out of bed a few times with the assistance of the nursing staff. The MOST important objective measure to assess after assisting the patient from supine to sitting is:

Systolic blood pressure
Diastolic blood pressure
Perceived exertion
Oxygen saturation rate

Answer 124

Systolic blood pressure

Question 125

A physical therapist attempts to palpate the lunate by moving their finger immediately distal to Lister’s tubercle. Which wrist motion will allow the therapist to facilitate palpation of the lunate?

Extension
Flexion
Radial deviation
Ulnar deviation

Answer 125

Flexion

Question 126

A physician indicates that a patient rehabilitating from a cerebrovascular accident has significant perceptual deficits. Which anatomical region would MOST likely be affected by the stroke?

Primary motor cortex
Somatosensory cortex
Basal Ganglia
cerebellum

Answer 126

Somatosensory cortex

Question 127

A physical therapist reviews the results of a pulmonary function test for a 58-year-old male patient recently admitted to the hospital. The therapist notes that the patient’s total lung capacity is significantly increased when compared to established norms. Which medical condition would MOST likely produce this type result?

Chronic bronchitis
Emphysema
Spinal cord injury
Pulmonary fibrosis

Answer 127

Emphysema

Question 128

A physical therapist instructs a patient to squeeze a piece of paper between the index and middle fingers while the therapist attempts to pull it away. This type of testing would be the MOST appropriate to assess the:

C6 myotome
C7 myotome
C8 myotome
T1 myotome

Answer 128

T1 myotome

Question 129

A physical therapist assesses an infant by performing a pull-to-sit maneuver. During the maneuver the therapist notes that the infant has learned to lead with their head as soon as the stimulus of being pulled to sitting occurs. Which muscle group would be LEAST instrumental in performing the described activity?

Abdominals
Cervical flexors
Hip flexors
Scapular stabilizers

Answer 129

Scapular stabilizers

Question 130

A physical therapist treats a female patient with multiple sclerosis for impaired balance and coordination. The patient reports that since being diagnosed four years ago, her symptoms have gradually gotten worse without any plateau or lessening in severity. Which terminology would MOST accurately describe the patient’s disease course?

a. Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
b. Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis
c. Secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis
d. Progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis

Answer 130

b. Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis

Question 131

A patient diagnosed with piriformis syndrome is referred to physical therapy for one visit for Instruction in a home exercise program. After examining the patient, the physical therapist feels the patient’s rehabilitation potential is excellent, but is concerned that one visit will not be sufficient to meet the patient’s needs. The MOST appropriate action is to:

a. Schedule the patient for treatment sessions as warranted by the results of the examination
b. Explain to the patient that recent health care reforms have drastically reduced the frequency of physical therapy visits covered by third party payers
c. Explain to the patient that she can continue with physical therapy beyond the initial session, but will be liable for all expenses not covered by her insurance
d. Contact the referring physician and request approval for additional physical therapy visits

Answer 131

d. Contact the referring physician and request approval for additional physical therapy visits

Question 132

A physical therapist observing a patient complete a leg cur exercise notices two prominent tendons visible on the posterior surface of the patient’s left knee. The visible medial and lateral tendons are MOST likely associated with the:

a. Semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles
b. Semitendinosus and biceps femoris muscles
c. Popliteus and semitendinosus muscles
d. Semimembranosus and biceps femoris muscles

Answer 132

b. Semitendinosus and biceps femoris muscles

Question 133

A patient diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome works on weight shifting activities while standing in the parallel bars. The PRIMARY objective of this activity is to improve:

Mobility
Stability
Controlled mobility
skill

Answer 133

Controlled mobility

Question 134

A physical therapist asks a physical therapist assistant to complete a lower extremity isokinetic test on a patient. The physical therapist assistant is willing to complete the test, however, indicates it has been quite some time since they have set up the isokinetic device. The MOST appropriate physical therapist action is:

a. Provide verbal cueing for the physical therapist assistant prior to beginning the set up
b. Instruct the physical therapist assistant to refer to the owner’s manual
c. Observe the physical therapist assistant complete the set up
d. Ask another physical therapist assistant to complete the set up

Answer 134

c. Observe the physical therapist assistant complete the set up

Question 135

A physical therapist administers ultrasound over a patient’s anterior thigh. After one minute of treatment, the patient reports feeling a slight burning sensation under the soundhead. The therapist’s MOST appropriate action is to:

a. Explain to the patient that what she feels is not out of the ordinary when using ultrasound
b. Temporarily discontinue treatment and examine the amount of coupling agent utilized
c. Discontinue treatment and contact the referring physician
d. Continue with treatment utilizing the current parameters

Answer 135

b. Temporarily discontinue treatment and examine the amount of coupling agent utilized

Question 136

A physical therapist uses a manual wheelchair during a training session with a patient with C5 quadriplegia. Which wheelchair would be the MOST appropriate based on the patient’s level of injury?

a. Manual wheelchair with sip and puff controls
b. Manual wheelchair with handrim projections
c. Manual wheelchair with friction surface handrims
d. Manual wheelchair with standard handrims

Answer 136

b. Manual wheelchair with handrim projections

Question 137

A physical therapist works with a patient that sustained burns to the left axilla and shoulder. The therapist would MOST likely fabricate a splint for the patient in order to avoid a:

a. Shoulder abduction contracture and webbing of the axillary folds
b. Shoulder adduction contracture and webbing of the axillary folds
c. Shoulder flexion and medial rotation contracture
d. Thoracic kyphosis secondary to flexion forces

Answer 137

b. Shoulder adduction contracture and webbing of the axillary folds

Question 138

A six-year-old female is currently taking Neurontin for the treatment of seizures. Based on the prescribed medication, the patient may have the MOST difficulty when performing interventions that attempt to improve:

Coordination
Verbal comprehension
Strength
flexibility

Answer 138

Coordination

Question 139

A physical therapist examines a patient with a dorsal scapular nerve injury. Which muscles would you expect to be MOST affected by this condition?

a. Serratus anterior, pectoralis minor
b. Levator scapulae, rhomboids
c. Latissimus dorsi, teres major
d. Supraspinatus, infraspinatus

Answer 139

b. Levator scapulae, rhomboids

Question 140

A physical therapist treats a patient with mechanical lumbar traction by positioning the patient in supine with the hips and knees flexed and the lower legs resting on a stool. This position would be MOST appropriate to treat a patient diagnosed with:

Spinal stenosis
Herniated disk
Osteoporosis
spondylolisthesis

Answer 140

Spinal stenosis

Question 141

A physical therapist instructs a patient diagnosed with restricted shoulder mobility in a self-mobilization exercise. The therapist instructs the patient to attempt to lean in between their fixed arms (i.e., direct their upper thorax toward the mat surface). The PRIMARY objective of this activity is to improve:

a. Glenohumeral abduction
b. Glenohumeral external rotation
c. Glenohumeral internal rotation
d. Glenohumeral flexion

Answer 141

b. Glenohumeral external rotation

Question 142

A physical therapist instructs a patient to make a fist. The patient can make a fist, but is unable to flex the distal phalanx of the ring finger. This clinical finding can BEST be explained by:

a. A ruptured flexor carpi radialis tendon
b. A ruptured flexor digitorum superficialis tendon
c. A ruptured flexor digitorum profundus tendon
d. A ruptured extensor digitorum communis tendon

Answer 142

c. A ruptured flexor digitorum profundus tendon

Question 143

A physical therapist implements an aquatic program for a patient rehabilitating from a lower extremity injury. The program requires the patient to run in place using a flotation device while tethered to the side of the pool using an elastic cord. Which action would be the MOST appropriate to increase resistance?

a. Increase the water temperature
b. Increase the speed of movement
c. Increase the depth of the water
d. Remove the flotation device

Answer 143

b. Increase the speed of movement

Question 144

A physical therapist reads a recently published case report. Which statement describes the MOST important contribution case reports make to evidence-based practice in physical therapy?

a. A case report demonstrates a causal relationship between treatment and outcome in a single patient
b. A case report provides information that can be used to generate inductive hypotheses for future studies
c. A case report provides data on the natural history of disease states
d. A case report uses triangulation to test a hypothesis with more than one source of data

Answer 144

b. A case report provides information that can be used to generate inductive hypotheses for future studies

Question 145

A patient’s pulmonary function tests reveal that the patient has a forced vital capacity (FVC) of 4.0 liters and a forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV) of 3.5 liters. These results would be MOST anticipated with a diagnosis of:

Cystic fibrosis
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Chronic bronchitis
emphysema

Answer 145

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Question 146

A physical therapist treats a patient with a wound impacting the epidermis of the skin. Which structure would be MOST affected based on the described wound?

Arrector pili muscles
Meissner’s corpuscles
Melanocytes
Sebaceous glands

Answer 146

Melanocytes

Question 147

A physical therapist discusses pain management for a patient following total hip arthroplasty with the patient’s nurse. Which objective finding would make the use of patient-controlled analgesia MOST unrealistic?

Altered cognitive status
Elevated respiratory rate
Advanced age
History of substance abuse

Answer 147

Altered cognitive status

Question 148

A physical therapist 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 therapist performs passive stretching activities to improve the patient’s range of motion. The MOST appropriate stretch for the patient is:

a. Lateral flexion to the right and rotation to the right
b. Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the left
c. Lateral flexion to the right and rotation to the left
d. Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the right

Answer 148

d. Lateral flexion to the left and rotation to the right

Question 149

A physical therapist instructs a patient to close her eyes and hold out her hand. The therapist places a series of different weights in the patient’s hand one at a time. The patient is then asked to identify the comparative weight of the objects. This method of sensory testing is used to examine:

Barognosis
Graphesthesia
Recognition of texture
stereognosis

Answer 149

Barognosis

Question 150

A physical therapist instructs a patient rehabilitating from a serious motor vehicle accident to ambulate with a paltform walker. The patient has poor balance and is presently partial weight bearing. Which description would MOST warrant the use of the platform attachment?

a. Upper extremity spasticity
b. Generalized upper extremity muscle weakness
c. Flexion contracture of the elbow
d. Impaired upper extremity sensation

Answer 150

c. Flexion contracture of the elbow

Question 151

A physical therapist employed in a rehabilitation hospital utilizes the services of a physical therapy aide. Which variable BEST determines the extent to which physical therapy aides are involved in patient care activities?

a. The number of years of experience
b. The scope of formal training
c. The discretion of the physical therapist
d. The Quantity of continuing education courses

Answer 151

c. The discretion of the physical therapist

Question 152

A physical therapist prepares to treat a patient with cystic fibrosis using postural drainage. The MOST appropriate patient position when treating the superior segments of the lower lobes is:

a. Sitting, leaning back at a 30-40 degree angle
b. Head down on left side, ¼ turn backward
c. Supine with two pillows under the knees
d. Prone with two pillows under the hips

Answer 152

d. Prone with two pillows under the hips

Question 153

A physical therapist treating a child with cerebral palsy would like to utilize a reverse walker to help with the child’s gait impairments. The PRIMARY rationale for prescribing a reverse walker instead of a traditional walker is because the child:

a. Displays a Trendelenburg gait pattern
b. Exhibits excessive upper extremity weakness
c. Displays a forward trunk lean with gait
d. Demonstrates excessive extensor tone

Answer 153

c. Displays a forward trunk lean with gait

Question 154

A physical therapist elects to use mechanical lumbar traction for a patient rehabilitating from a back injury. The therapeutic goals of the session include decreasing the patient’s muscle spasm. The MOST appropriate force based on the stated objective would be:

10% of body weight
15% of body weight
25% of body weight
50% of body weight

Answer 154

25% of body weight

Question 155

A physical therapist reviews a physician referral form that includes only the patient’s name and the referring physician’s signature. During the examination the patient indicates that she had knee surgery two weeks ago, however, is unable to provide more specific information. The therapist attempts to call the physician’s office, but is unable to reach anyone. The MOST appropriate therapist action is:

a. Initiate treatment based on the results of the examination
b. Initiate treatment based on an established protocol following knee surgery
c. Initiate treatment, however, avoid resistive exercises and high-level functional activities
d. Delay treatment until orders are received from the referring physician

Answer 155

d. Delay treatment until orders are received from the referring physician

Question 156

A physical therapist employed in an acute care hospital reviews the results of recent laboratory testing for one of their patients. A note in the medical record indicates that the patient was dehydrated at the time the blood sample was taken. Which finding would be MOST likely based on the patient’s hydration status?

a. Increased coagulation level
b. Decreased hematocrit level
c. Increased blood urea nitrogen level
d. Decreased hemoglobin level

Answer 156

c. Increased blood urea nitrogen level

Question 157

A patient four days status post transtibial amputation is transported to physical therapy for a scheduled treatment session. Assuming an uncomplicated recovery, the MOST appropriate patient transfer to utilize from a wheelchair to a mat table is:

Two-person lift
Hydraulic lift
Stand pivot
Sliding board

Answer 157

Stand pivot

Question 158

A patient reports experiencing pain with active shoulder range of motion testing. The therapist hypothesizes that the pain may be associated with anterior glenohumeral instability. Which portion of the shoulder range of motion would the therapist expect the pain to be MOST pronounced:

a. 70-80 degrees of lateral rotation
b. 80-90 degrees of lateral rotation
c. 60-70 degrees of medial rotation
d. 70-80 degrees of medial rotation

Answer 158

b. 80-90 degrees of lateral rotations

Question 159

A physical therapist examines the abdomen of a patient with suspected referred shoulder pain from the viscera. Which component should be assessed FIRST?

Superficial palpation
Deep palpation
Percussion
Auscultation

Answer 159

Auscultation

Question 160

A physician prescribes a spinal brace for a patient with chronic low back pain. Which brace would be the MOST appropriate if the objective is to allow spinal motion while increasing intra-abdominal pressure?

Taylor brace
Milwaukee brace
Jewett brace
Corset brace

Answer 160

Corset brace

Question 161

A physical therapist positions a patient in supine prior to performing a manual muscle test of the supinator. To isolate the supinator and minimize the action of the biceps, the therapist should position the patient’s elbow in:

a. 30 degrees of elbow flexion
b. 60 degrees of elbow flexion
c. 90 degrees of elbow flexion
d. Terminal elbow flexion

Answer 161

d. Terminal elbow flexion

Question 162

A patient rehabilitating from cardiac surgery is monitored using an arterial line. The PRIMARY purpose of an arterial line is to:

a. Measure right atrial pressure
b. Measure heart rate and oxygen saturation
c. Measure pulmonary artery pressure
d. Measure blood pressure

Answer 162

d. Measure blood pressure

Question 163

A patient in the intensive care unit rehabilitating from a serious infection is connected to a series of lines and tubes. Which lower extremity intravenous infusion site would be the MOST appropriate to administer an intravenous line?

Median cubital vein
Basilic vein
Cephalic vein
Saphenous vein

Answer 163

Saphenous vein

Question 164

A physical therapist administers a neural tension test to a patient being treated in a physical therapy with low back pain. Assuming the current testing procedure has been unable to reproduce the patient’s symptoms, the MOST appropriate modification is to:

a. Apply passive overpressure to cervical flexion
b. Apply passive overpressure to left ankle dorsiflexion
c. Passively extend the right knee
d. Ask the patient to actively extend the right knee

Answer 164

b. Apply passive overpressure to left ankle dorsiflexion

Question 165

A physical therapist examines the foot of a 17-year-old female referred to physical therapy with lower leg pain. After placing the foot in subtalar neutral, the therapist determines that the medial border of the foot along the first metatarsal is higher than the lateral border of the foot along the fifth metatarsal. This position would MOST appropriately be documented as:

Forefoot varus
Forefoot valgus
Rearfoot varus
Rearfoot valgus

Answer 165

Forefoot varus

Question 166

A physical therapist reviews the medical record of a patient recently admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. The patient sustained a traumatic head injury in a motor vehicle accident five weeks ago. The medical record indicates that the patient is often disoriented and can frequently become agitated with little provocation. The MOST appropriate location for the therapist to make initial contact with the patient is:

a. In the patient’s room
b. In the physical therapy gym
c. In a private treatment room
d. In the physical therapy waiting room

Answer 166

a. In the patient’s room

Question 167

A patient with limited elbow and forearm range of motion is referred to physical therapy. When mobilizing the humeroradial articulation, the treatment plane is considered to be:

a. In the concave radial head, parallel to the long axis of the radius
b. In the concave radial head, perpendicular to the long axis of the radius
c. In the convex radial head, parallel to the long axis of the radius
d. In the convex radial head, perpendicular to the long axis of the radius

Answer 167

b. In the concave radial head, perpendicular to the long axis of the radius

Question 168

A physical therapist conducts an inservice on exercise guidelines for a group of senior citizens. As part of the inservice, the therapist discusses the benefits of improving cardiovascular status through a low intensity activity such as a walking program. What frequency of exercise would be the MOST desirable to achieve the stated objective?

Twice per day
One time per week
Three times per week
Five times per week

Answer 168

Five times per week

Question 169

A physical therapist employed in an acute care hospital reviews the medical record of a patient diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The therapist would like to implement a formal exercise program but is concerned about the patient’s exercise tolerance. Which condition is MOST responsible for the patient’s limited exercise tolerance?

a. Diminished lung volumes
b. Arterial oxygen desaturation
c. Insufficient stroke volume during ventricular systole
d. Excessive rise in blood pressure

Answer 169

c. Insufficient stroke volume during ventricular systole

Question 170

A physical therapist measures a patient for a wheelchair. When measuring back height, which method is MOST accurate?

a. Measure from the seat of the chair to the base of the axilla and subtract two inches
b. Measure from the seat of the chair to the base of the axilla and subtract four inches
c. Measure from the seat of the chair to the acromion process and subtract two inches
d. Measure from the seat of the chair to the acromion process and subtract four inches

Answer 170

b. Measure from the seat of the chair to the base of the axilla and subtract four inches

Question 171

A physical therapist plans to perform a sensory examination on a patient with a suspected neurological lesion. Which sensation should the therapist assess FIRST?

Vibration
Two-point discrimination
Temperature
Kinesthesia

Answer 171

Temperature

Question 172

A patient has recently been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. Which comorbidity is MOST likely to have caused this condition?

Chronic hypotension
Diabetes
Peripheral arterial disease
Congestive heart failure

Answer 172

Diabetes

Question 173

A physical therapist is concerned that a 77-year-old female taking diazepam for anxiety may be a significant fall risk. Which side effect of the medication is MOST responsible for this increased risk?

Ataxia
Hemorrhage
Sedation
Postural hypertension

Answer 173

Sedation

Question 174

A patient diagnosed with infrapatellar tendonitis complete a series of functional activities. After completing the activities the physical therapist instructs the patient to use ice massage over the anterior surface of the knee. The MOST appropriate treatment time is:

3-5 minutes
5-10 minutes
10-15 minutes
15-20 minutes

Answer 174

5-10 minutes

Question 175

A physical therapist works with a six-year-old boy with hip pathology. Which condition would be MOST likely based on the child’s age?

Apophysits
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
Rheumatoid arthritis
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

Answer 175

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Question 176

PTRP KA NA THIS SEASON! 🫶🏽

Question 177

A 16-year-old female accompanied by her mother receives exercise instructions. During the treatment session, the mother makes several comments to her daughter that appear to be extremely upsetting and result in the daughter losing concentration. The MOST appropriate physical therapist action is to:

a. Document the mother’s comments in the medical record
b. Ask the patient if her mother is verbally abusive
c. Ask the mother to return to the waiting area
d. Discontinue the treatment session

Answer 177

Ask the mother to return to the waiting area

Question 178

The goal for a patient status post total knee arthroplasty include general conditioning and independent household mobility. Which component of the patient’s treatment would be the MOST appropriate to delegate to a physical therapy aide?

a. Stair training
b. Progressive gait training with a straight cane
c. Patient education regarding the surgical procedure
d. Ambulation with a walker for endurance

Answer 178

Ambulation with a walker for endurance

Question 179

A 64-year-old female patient is admitted to the hospital with a stage III decubitus ulcer over her right ischial tuberosity. The patient’s past medical history includes severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The MOST appropriate position for the patient is:

a. Supine with pillows under the knees
b. Prone with pillows under the knees
c. Left sidelying with pillows between the knees
d. Right sidelying with pillows between the knees

Answer 179

Left sidelying with pillows between the knees

Question 180

A patient in an acute care hospital has a catheter inserted into the internal jugular vein. The catheter travels through the superior vena cava and into the right atrium. The device permits removal of blood samples, administration of medication, and monitoring of central venous pressure. The device is BEST termed

Arterial line
Central venous pressure catheter
Hickman catheter
Swan-Gatz catheter

Answer 180

Hickman catheter

Question 181

A 13-year-old patient diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis experiences a severe acute exacerbation of her condition. The physical therapist recommends a custom splint in order to prevent a knee flexion contracture. Which type of split is MOST appropriate to support this goal?

Functional splint
Dynamic splint
Resting splint
Serial splint

Answer 181

Resting splint

Question 182

A physical therapist consults with an orthotist regarding the need for an ankle-foot orthosis for a patient status post CVA. The patient has difficulty moving from sitting to standing when wearing a prefabricated plastic ankle-foot orthosis (AFO). The therapist indicates the patient has poor strength at the ankle, intact sensation and does not have any edema or tonal influence. The MOST appropriate type of AFO for the patient would incorporate:

An articulation at the ankle joint
Tone reducing features
Metal uprights
Dorsiflexion assist

Answer 182

An articulation at the ankle joint

Question 183

A physical therapist recommends a wheelchair for a patient rehabilitating from a CVA with the goal of independent mobility. The left upper and lower extremities are flaccid and present with edema. There is normal strength on the right, however, the patient’s trunk is hypotonic. The patient is cognitively intact. The MOST appropriate wheelchair for the patient is:

a. Solid seat, solid back, elevating legrests, and anti-tippers
b. Sling seat, sling back, arm board, and elevating legrests
c. Light weight, solid seat, solid back, arm board, and elevating legrests
d. Light weight, solid seat, solid back, arm board, and standard footrests

Answer 183

c. Light weight, solid seat, solid back, arm board, and elevating legrests

Question 184

A physical therapist participates in a formal gait analysis using three-dimensional analysis software for an 11-year-old child with cerebral palsy. Which piece of objective data would LEAST likely be obtained through this process?

a. Decreased swing phase
b. Decreased walking velocity
c. Decreased quadriceps strength
d. Decreased knee extension range of motion

Answer 184

c. Decreased quadriceps strength

Question 185

A patient’s medical chart indicates that a patient has a lesion in the posterior portion of the spinal cord. Which of the following impairments would MOST likely be observed?

a. Inability to determine joint position
b. Inability to distinguish between hot and cold
c. Inability to distinguish between sharp and dull
d. Inability to feel light touch

Answer 185

a. Inability to determine joint position

Question 186

A physical therapist hypothesizes that a patient’s clinical presentation may be associated with cubital tunnel syndrome. Which finding would be MOST useful when distinguishing this condition from other common conditions affecting the elbow?

a. Visible edema in the posterior elbow
b. Medial-sided elbow pain
c. Paresthesias in the fourth and fifth fingers
d. Increased pain with weight bearing on the elbow

Answer 186

c. Paresthesias in the fourth and fifth fingers

Question 187

A physical therapist inspects a ramp that conforms to the exact specifications of the Americans with Disabilities Act’s minimum requirement for slope. The ramp has two 24 foot sections connected by a landing area. The MOST likely total height of the ramp is:

12 inches
24 inches
36 inches
48 inches

Answer 187

48 inches

Question 188

A physical therapist examines a 26-year-old female whose subjective complaints include morning stiffness of her hands and visible swelling. The patient indicates that the stiffness seems to diminish with activity. This description BEST describes:

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Osteoporosis
Rheumatoid arthritis
osteoarthritis

Answer 188

Rheumatoid arthritis

Question 189

PTRP KA NA THIS SEASON! 🫶🏽

Question 190

While examining a patient diagnosed with Achilles tendonitis, a physical therapist notes that the foot and ankle appear to be pronated. Which motions combine to create pronation in a non-weight bearing foot?

a. Abduction, dorsiflexion, eversion
b. Adduction, dorsiflexion, inversion
c. Abduction, plantar flexion, eversion
d. Adduction, plantar flexion, inversion

Answer 190

a. Abduction, dorsiflexion, eversion

Question 191

A patient with diabetes mellitus is scheduled to walk approximately one half mile as part of a community fitness initiative. The therapist checks the patient’s blood glucose level before initiating the activity and finds it is 100 mg/dL. This finding indicates that:

a. The patient is safe to perform the activity
b. The patient should increase food intake with a fruit or bread exchange
c. The patient should increase food intake with a half sandwich with fruit or milk
d. The patient should not exercise until the blood glucose is under better control

Answer 191

a. The patient is safe to perform the activity

Question 192

A physical therapist administers the Functional Reach Test to a patient rehabilitating from a neurological disorder. Which bony landmark would be the MOST appropriate to utilize when formally measuring the distance the patient reached during each trial?

Distal tip of the third digit
Third metacarpal
Radial styloid process
Ulnar styloid process

Answer 192

b. Third metacarpal

Question 193

A physical therapist examines a patient referred to physical therapy diagnosed with anterior compartment syndrome. The patient presents with an inability to dorsiflex the foot and a mild sensory disturbance between the first and second toes. The nerve MOST likely involved is the:

Deep peroneal nerve
Medial plantar nerve
Tibial nerve
Lateral plantar nerve

Answer 193

Deep peroneal nerve

Question 194

Which combination of orthoses and assistive device would be the MOST appropriate for energy efficient ambulation in a seven-year-old child with L1 to L3 level spina bifida?

a. Ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) and rolling walker
b. Ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) and standard walker
c. Reciprocating gait orthosis (RGO) and rolling walker
d. Reciprocating gait orthosis (RGO) and standard walker

Answer 194

c. Reciprocating gait orthosis (RGO) and rolling walker

Question 195

A physical therapist prepares to administer iontophoresis over the anterior surface of a patient’s knee. The therapist would like to keep the current density low in order to avoid skin irritation. Which of the listed parameters would BEST accomplish the therapist’s objective?

a. Current amplitude of 4 mA: electrode with an area of 12 cm²
b. Current amplitude of 4 mA: electrode with an area of 4 cm²
c. Current amplitude of 3 mA: electrode with an area of 6 cm²
d. Current amplitude of 3 mA: electrode with an area of 4 cm²

Answer 195

a. Current amplitude of 4 mA: electrode with an area of 12 cm²

Question 196

A patient with right hemiplegia is observed during gait training. The patient perfroms side stepping towards the hemiplegic side. The physical therapist may expect the patient to compensate for weakened abductors by:

a. Hip hiking of the unaffected side
b. Lateral trunk flexion towards the affected side
c. Lateral trunk flexion towards the unaffected side
d. Hip extension of the affected side

Answer 196

c. Lateral trunk flexion towards the unaffected side

Question 197

A physical therapist assesses a patient with significant biceps brachii weakness and suspects there may be underlying neurological damage that is causing the weakness. Damage to which portion of the brachial plexus would MOST likely explain this finding?

Lateral cord
Posterior cord
Medial cord
Anterior cord

Answer 197

Lateral cord

Question 198

A physical therapist treats a patient diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. When working on controlled mobility, which of the following would BEST describe the physical therapist’s objective?

a. Facilitate postural muscle control
b. Promote weight shifting and rotational trunk control
c. Emphasize reciprocal extremity movement
d. Facilitate tone and rigidity

Answer 198

b. Promote weight shifting and rotational trunk control

Question 199

A physical therapist treats a patient with end-stage renal disease for general deconditioning. Which other symptoms would this patient MOST likely demonstrate?

a. Increased urine output and polycythemia
b. Increased urine output and anemia
c. Decreased urine output and polycythemia
d. Decreased urine output and anemia

Answer 199

d. Decreased urine output and anemia

Question 200

A physical therapist participates in a scoliosis screening as part of a health and wellness fair. Which individual would be the BEST candidate to participate in the screening process?

10-year-old male
13-year-old male
8-year-old female
16-year-old femal

Answer 200

13-year-old male