AOTA Pharmacology & Medication Management 5

Question 1

A child with fragile X syndrome is on sertraline to reduce anxiety. In the context of sensory integration, which behavioral change should prompt the OT to report to the team?

Accepted Answer

New-onset or worsening sensory hyperresponsivity and agitation

Answer

Paradoxical agitation or worsening sensory hyperresponsivity can occur with SSRIs, particularly in populations with fragile X, and warrants prompt communication with the prescribing physician.

Question 2

An OT evaluating a child's sensory processing finds the child takes multiple medications. Which principle should guide the OT's interpretation of evaluation findings?

Accepted Answer

Evaluation findings should be interpreted in context of current medications and their known CNS effects

Answer

Accurate interpretation of sensory evaluation data requires contextualizing findings with the client's current medications, as CNS-active drugs can significantly alter sensory thresholds and behavioral responses.

Question 3

A pediatric OT notices that a client's handwriting and fine motor control improve markedly on school days compared to weekends. The most likely explanation is:

Accepted Answer

The client takes stimulant medication on school days that enhances attention and motor control

Answer

A common 'drug holiday' practice involves withholding stimulant medication on weekends, which explains the Monday–Friday improvement in attention-dependent fine motor and handwriting performance.

Question 4

An OT working in a psychiatric setting documents that a client on haloperidol is exhibiting akathisia. Why is this significant for sensory integration-informed practice?

Accepted Answer

Akathisia mimics sensory-seeking behavior and must be distinguished from genuine proprioceptive seeking

Answer

Akathisia (inner restlessness with compulsive movement) caused by antipsychotics can resemble sensory-seeking behavior, making it critical for OTs to differentiate a drug side effect from a sensory processing need.

Question 5

A client's caregiver asks the OT whether sensory integration therapy can eventually replace the child's medication. The most professionally appropriate OT response is:

Accepted Answer

Explain that this is a medical decision for the prescribing physician and offer to share therapy progress data to inform that discussion

Answer

Medication decisions are the prescribing physician's domain; the OT can contribute functional progress data to the conversation but must not independently advise on medication reduction.

(AOTA) AOTA Sensory Integration Certification Practice Test

(AOTA) AOTA Sensory Integration Certification Practice Test

AOTA Pharmacology & Medication Management 5