Free Assistive Technology Professional (RESNA) Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When choosing control interfaces for the user, the ATP decides to continue the evaluation using the technique below based on data gathered from the needs identification and physical-sensory components of the evaluation process:
- Funding availability
- Recommendations from manufacturer reps
- Scan versus keypad selection
- Interfaces for direct or indirect selection (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Interfaces for direct or indirect selection
After identifying user needs and assessing physical-sensory capabilities, an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) evaluates potential control interfaces. This evaluation focuses on whether the user can utilize direct selection (e.g., touch, joystick) or requires indirect selection (e.g., scanning, switch access). This decision is crucial for matching the interface to the user's motor and cognitive abilities for optimal control.
Question 2: In motorized wheelchairs, the Sip and Puff switch array is an illustration of:
- Joystick control
- Momentary control
- Latch control (Correct answer)
- Switch array control
Correct answer: Latch control
A Sip and Puff switch array typically uses latch control. With latch control, a single activation (sip or puff) turns a function on, and another activation turns it off, similar to a toggle switch. This differs from momentary control, where the function is only active while the switch is being engaged.
Question 3: The following selection methods are used for scanning, with the exception of the following:
- Alternative scanning (Correct answer)
- Automatic scanning
- Step scanning
- Inverse scanning
Correct answer: Alternative scanning
Scanning is an indirect selection method where choices are presented sequentially, and the user activates a switch to select the desired item. Common scanning methods include automatic scanning (items scan automatically), step scanning (user advances items one by one), and inverse scanning (user holds switch to scan, releases to select). 'Alternative scanning' is not a recognized standard scanning method in assistive technology.
Question 4: What is the optimum position for a person's wrists and hands when using a keyboard for computer use or typing to lessen the stain from repetitive vital presses?
- Neutral position (Correct answer)
- 15 degrees
- 45 degrees
- 30 degrees
Correct answer: Neutral position
The optimum position for wrists and hands when using a keyboard is a neutral position. This means the wrists are straight, not bent up, down, or to the sides. Maintaining a neutral wrist position minimizes strain on tendons and nerves, significantly reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Question 5: Although results and advantages will differ, each intervention's main objective is to:
- Maintain midline alignment in the chair
- Maximize the individual's function (Correct answer)
- Although results and advantages will differ, each intervention's main objective is to:
- Reduce contractures
Correct answer: Maximize the individual's function
The overarching goal of any assistive technology intervention is to maximize the individual's function. This involves enabling them to perform tasks, participate in activities, and achieve greater independence in their daily lives. While other benefits like comfort or reduced contractures might occur, they are secondary to enhancing overall functional ability.
Question 6: Alternative keyboards for natural selection include the following, with the following exceptions:
- Row Column Scanning Matrix (Correct answer)
- Tongue Touch Keypad
- Touch Screens/Touch Tablets
- Expanded keyboards
Correct answer: Row Column Scanning Matrix
Natural selection keyboards allow direct input, such as expanded keyboards for users with limited fine motor control, or touch screens/tablets and tongue touch keypads for alternative input methods. A Row Column Scanning Matrix, however, is a method used for indirect selection, typically with a single switch, where the user scans through options rather than directly selecting them.
Question 7: An individual can link EADL devices in several different ways. The least valuable item for various uses is:
- Radio frequency transmission
- Direct wiring (Correct answer)
- Ultrasound transmission
- Infrared transmission
Correct answer: Direct wiring
Direct wiring, while reliable, is generally the least valuable method for linking Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADL) devices for various uses due to its lack of flexibility and portability. It requires physical connections, limiting device placement and making it difficult to reconfigure or move the system. Wireless options like radio frequency, ultrasound, and infrared offer much greater versatility and ease of use.
When choosing control interfaces for the user, the ATP decides to continue the evaluation using the technique below based on data gathered from the needs identification and physical-sensory components of the evaluation process: