Patient Assessment & Treatment Planning Flashcards

A therapist is assessing a dog with a suspected T3-L3 spinal cord lesion. Which reflex would be EXPECTED to be intact or exaggerated?

Answer: Both A and B

A T3-L3 lesion is above the lumbar intumescence, so lower motor neuron reflexes in the pelvic limbs (patellar, withdrawal) are intact or hyperreflexic due to loss of upper motor neuron inhibition.

When documenting a subjective pain assessment from an owner during initial intake, which question provides the MOST clinically useful information?

Answer: 'How many times per day does your pet limp, and during which activities?'

Quantifying frequency and identifying specific activities that provoke lameness provides actionable, measurable baseline information and helps identify functional limitations.

In a multimodal treatment plan for a dog with chronic elbow osteoarthritis, which component directly targets the neuroplastic pain component?

Answer: Gabapentin prescribed by the veterinarian for central sensitization

Gabapentin targets central sensitization (neuroplastic/neuropathic pain), which is a key component of chronic osteoarthritis pain that peripheral modalities do not adequately address.

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a reassessment interval in a rehabilitation treatment plan?

Answer: To objectively measure progress against baseline and adjust the plan accordingly

Scheduled reassessments compare current objective measures to baseline findings, confirm progress toward goals, and allow evidence-based modification of the treatment plan.

A therapist notes crepitus in a dog's stifle during passive flexion. This finding is most consistent with which condition?

Answer: Cartilage degeneration or osteophyte formation within the joint

Crepitus during joint movement indicates surface irregularities such as cartilage degradation, osteophytes, or loose bodies within the joint, consistent with osteoarthritis or joint pathology.

For a feline patient undergoing rehabilitation after a femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHO), which assessment timeline reflects appropriate progression?

Answer: Progressive weight-bearing assessment at 2, 4, and 8 weeks with ROM and muscle mass measurements

Serial assessments at 2, 4, and 8 weeks allow tracking of weight-bearing progression, muscle mass recovery, and ROM, enabling timely plan adjustments during the FHO recovery period.

Which of the following is the MOST appropriate method to assess deep pain perception in a dog suspected of severe spinal cord injury?

Answer: Applying firm pressure to the bone with a hemostat and observing for a behavioral response such as crying or turning

Deep pain perception requires a conscious response (vocalization, turning to look, attempts to bite) to noxious stimulation of bone or deep tissues, distinguishing it from the spinal reflex-mediated withdrawal response.