AOTA Pharmacology & Medication Management 3

Question 1

A school-based OT is developing a sensory diet for a child on clonidine. How should the medication's sedative properties influence scheduling of therapy?

Accepted Answer

Time alerting sensory activities when clonidine's peak effect has subsided

Answer

Scheduling alerting sensory activities when clonidine's sedative peak has passed maximizes the child's capacity to engage and benefit from treatment.

Question 2

Which medication used in autism spectrum disorder management has been shown in research to reduce repetitive sensory-seeking behaviors?

Accepted Answer

Aripiprazole

Answer

Aripiprazole (Abilify) is FDA-approved for irritability in autism and has been shown to reduce repetitive behaviors, which can include stereotyped sensory-seeking patterns.

Question 3

An OT reviews a chart and sees a client is on a medication with known anticholinergic properties. Which sensory system function should the OT monitor most closely?

Accepted Answer

Interoceptive awareness including dry mouth and vision changes

Answer

Anticholinergic medications block muscarinic receptors, causing dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation, all of which affect interoceptive awareness relevant to occupational function.

Question 4

During a sensory integration session, a child on stimulant medication exhibits a 'rebound effect' as the drug wears off. How should the OT adjust the session plan?

Accepted Answer

Use calming, organizing activities as the medication wears off to support self-regulation

Answer

The stimulant rebound often causes increased irritability and dysregulation, so organizing and calming sensory activities support the child's nervous system during this transition.

Question 5

A pediatric OT is consulting about a child whose melatonin supplementation has been increased. What sensory integration consideration becomes most relevant?

Accepted Answer

Possible residual drowsiness affecting morning alertness and engagement

Answer

Higher melatonin doses can cause residual morning drowsiness, which reduces a child's readiness for alerting sensory activities often scheduled in morning therapy slots.

(AOTA) AOTA Sensory Integration Certification Practice Test

(AOTA) AOTA Sensory Integration Certification Practice Test

AOTA Pharmacology & Medication Management 3