Clinical Assessment Flashcards
7 cards from real ATC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Clinical Assessment flashcards as text
Which grading system classifies a muscle strain based on the degree of fiber disruption and functional loss?
Answer: Grade I–III strain scale
Muscle strains are graded I (mild fiber microtear, minimal strength loss), II (partial tear, moderate loss), and III (complete rupture, total loss of function).
During a cervical spine screen, the Spurling test is performed. A positive result is indicated by:
Answer: Reproduction of radicular symptoms with compression and lateral flexion
The Spurling test (cervical compression with lateral flexion toward the symptomatic side) narrows the foramen and reproduces radiculopathy if nerve root compromise is present.
A basketball player lands awkwardly and reports hearing a 'pop' in the ankle with immediate swelling and inability to bear weight. The talar tilt test is markedly positive. Which ligament is MOST likely ruptured?
Answer: Calcaneofibular ligament
A markedly positive talar tilt test (inversion stress) indicates disruption of the calcaneofibular ligament, often injured in severe lateral ankle sprains.
When documenting a SOAP note, subjective information would include:
Answer: Athlete's description of pain and mechanism of injury
The subjective section records what the athlete reports, including pain description, mechanism, and functional complaints, not measurable data.
Which special test assesses for thoracic outlet syndrome by monitoring for radial pulse obliteration with the arm in abduction and external rotation?
Answer: Wright test
The Wright test (hyperabduction test) places the arm in maximum abduction and external rotation, which can compress neurovascular structures and obliterate the radial pulse in thoracic outlet syndrome.
A positive anterior drawer test of the ankle, performed with the foot in slight plantarflexion, indicates injury to which structure?
Answer: Anterior talofibular ligament
The anterior drawer test stresses the ATFL by translating the talus anteriorly; excessive movement compared to the contralateral side indicates ATFL disruption.
During a sideline evaluation of a potential concussion, which assessment component measures visual-motor speed and reaction time?
Answer: King-Devick test
The King-Devick test measures rapid number reading and saccadic eye movements; slowed performance post-injury correlates with concussion.