IRF PTA Review Flashcards
What tool is used in parallel bars to help a patient with weight-bearing exercises or gait training?
Body weight support harness system
What device helps prevent knee flexion contractures in below-knee amputees (BKA) when using a wheelchair?
Amputee stump board
What is the purpose of a standing frame in inpatient rehab?
To help patients with severe weakness (SCI, stroke) gradually tolerate standing and improve circulation
What device provides electrical stimulation to weak muscles to aid movement in stroke patients?
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
What is the purpose of tilt-in-space wheelchairs?
To redistribute pressure for patients with poor postural control and prevent pressure sores
What is the main use of a knee immobilizer in stroke rehab?
To help control knee hyperextension during early gait training
What supportive device is used to prevent shoulder subluxation in stroke patients?
GivMohr Sling or Shoulder Support Orthosis
What is a universal cuff used for?
To help stroke patients with weak grip hold utensils or grooming tools
What adaptive tool helps patients with hand weakness grip onto walker handles or utensils?
Built-up handle grips
What is a Leg Lifter Strap used for?
To help patients with weak legs reposition themselves in bed or assist with transfers
What is the primary assessment tool required for Medicare-certified IRFs to track patient progress?
Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Patient Assessment Instrument (IRF-PAI)
What are the two main categories assessed in the IRF-PAI?
Self-care & mobility functional outcomes
What measure replaced the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) in IRFs for tracking patient progress?
Quality Indicators (QI) within the IRF-PAI
What is the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) used for?
Assesses functional ability in 18 areas (motor & cognitive skills), scored 1-7 (Now phased out in Medicare but still used informally)
What is the Barthel Index used for?
Measures independence in basic activities of daily living (ADLs), scored 0-100
What assessment measures balance ability and fall risk in stroke and elderly patients?
Berg Balance Scale
What does the 6-Minute Walk Test measure?
Cardiopulmonary endurance & walking capacity
What standardized test is used to measure gait speed and functional mobility?
Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test
What is the 10-Meter Walk Test used for?
Measures walking speed, which correlates with community ambulation ability
What assessment is often used to determine fall risk and functional leg strength in older adults?
5-Times Sit-to-Stand Test
What technique involves controlled weight shifts to improve balance and stability?
Weight-Shifting Exercises
What intervention challenges a patient’s balance by introducing unexpected movements?
Perturbation Training
What exercise set is used to improve ataxic movement control in patients with cerebellar dysfunction?
Frenkel’s Coordination Exercises
What computerized system is used for real-time balance biofeedback training?
Biodex Balance System
What technology-assisted therapy can help train postural control and balance reactions?
Virtual Reality-Based Balance Training (e.g., CAREN System, Wii Balance Board)
What test measures walking ability in stroke patients and predicts community ambulation levels?
10-Meter Walk Test
What exercise targets head and eye coordination to improve dizziness-related balance issues?
Vestibular-Ocular Reflex (VOR) Training
What principle states that the brain can rewire itself after injury through repetitive practice?
Neuroplasticity
What type of therapy focuses on retraining movement by preventing the use of the stronger limb?
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)
What therapy uses a mirror to help retrain movement in a weaker limb by tricking the brain?
Mirror Therapy
What technique uses electrical impulses to stimulate weak or paralyzed muscles?
Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
What robotic system assists in gait retraining for stroke and spinal cord injury patients?
Lokomat
What intervention uses diagonal movement patterns to improve neuromuscular control?
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)
What approach aims to reduce abnormal muscle tone and reflexes to improve movement?
Bobath/NDT (Neurodevelopmental Treatment) Approach
What training method involves practicing real-life movements repeatedly to regain function?
Task-Specific Training
What technique uses real-time visual feedback to help correct balance and movement?
Visual Feedback Training
What standardized test measures motor recovery, sensation, and balance after a stroke?
Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA)
What assessment tool is used in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) and home health to track functional mobility?
Minimum Data Set (MDS)
What tool helps measure independence in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) (e.g., shopping, cooking, finances)?
Lawton IADL Scale
What outcome measure assesses a patient’s confidence in balance and fall prevention?
Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale
What is an important documentation rule for PTAs working in inpatient rehab?
PTAs must document progress clearly but cannot alter the initial plan of care set by the PT
What is a geri chair, and when is it used?
A recliner-style wheelchair with extra support for patients with poor trunk control
What mobility aid can help reduce weight-bearing on one limb for patients who cannot use a walker?
Platform Walker
What tool helps improve postural alignment and trunk control in geriatric patients?
Postural Support Cushions (Wedge or Lateral Supports)
What is a hip abduction pillow used for?
Prevents excessive hip adduction after total hip replacement
What tool can help retrain sit-to-stand transitions in patients with severe weakness?
Sit-to-Stand Lift (e.g., Sara Stedy)
What type of wheelchair cushion helps prevent pressure ulcers in non-ambulatory patients?
Roho or Gel Cushions
What strength training principle is important for sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss)?
Progressive Overload (gradually increasing resistance to rebuild strength)
What cardiovascular exercise is often safest for frail geriatric patients?
Seated Recumbent Stepper (e.g., NuStep)
What mobility training method helps reduce fall risk in elderly patients?
Multi-Directional Step Training (stepping forward, backward, sideways)
What type of strengthening exercise is used to prevent postural kyphosis in older adults?
Scapular Retraction & Back Extensor Strengthening
What transfer technique is best for patients with one-sided weakness post-stroke?
Stand-Pivot Transfer to the Stronger Side
What is the “scoot method” used for?
A technique for bed-to-chair transfers in patients with poor standing tolerance
What does the 90-90-90 sitting position help with?
Proper posture & pressure relief (90° hips, 90° knees, 90° ankles in sitting)
What is the best toileting strategy for patients with severe mobility impairments?
Bedside Commode or Raised Toilet Seat with Grab Bars
What home safety modification helps reduce falls in geriatric patients?
Grab bars, non-slip flooring, good lighting
What nighttime precaution can prevent falls in inpatient rehab?
Bed Alarm or Motion Sensor
What training technique helps patients recover from unexpected loss of balance?
Reactive Step Training (teaching controlled recovery steps)
What footwear recommendation helps reduce fall risk in elderly patients?
Firm, non-slip shoes with Velcro closures
What is an essential communication skill for PTAs working with elderly patients?
Speaking slowly, clearly, and checking for understanding
How should PTAs handle patients with cognitive impairment or dementia?
Use simple instructions, visual cues, and repetition
What is an important consideration when working with patients who are emotionally struggling with mobility loss?
Motivational Interviewing (empathetic communication to encourage participation in therapy)
Why is cultural competence important in geriatric PT?
Older patients may have different beliefs about exercise, pain, and independence based on cultural background
