NCS Patient Management 4

Question 1

A patient with ALS demonstrates dysphagia and reduced respiratory reserve. Which team member should the PT PRIMARILY coordinate with regarding positioning to optimize both swallowing and breathing?

Accepted Answer

Speech-language pathologist and respiratory therapist

Answer

In ALS, swallowing safety (SLP domain) and respiratory muscle weakness (RT domain) both influence optimal postural positioning, requiring coordinated collaboration between these two specialists.

Question 2

Which gait parameter is MOST sensitive to detecting early balance impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease?

Accepted Answer

Step width variability

Answer

Increased step width variability reflects anticipatory postural control deficits and is among the earliest and most sensitive gait markers for balance impairment in Parkinson's disease.

Question 3

A patient with C6 ASIA B SCI is being educated on skin integrity. What is the MINIMUM recommended frequency for pressure relief when seated in a wheelchair?

Accepted Answer

Every 15–30 minutes

Answer

Current SCI clinical guidelines recommend weight shifts or pressure relief maneuvers every 15–30 minutes while seated to prevent ischemic tissue damage.

Question 4

During gait analysis of a patient with foot drop from peroneal nerve palsy, which compensatory strategy is MOST commonly observed?

Accepted Answer

Hip hiking and circumduction

Answer

Hip hiking with circumduction is the classic compensatory gait deviation for foot drop, allowing toe clearance during swing phase in the absence of dorsiflexion.

Question 5

A PT is treating a patient with vestibular neuritis. Which intervention approach is MOST appropriate in the acute phase (first 3 days)?

Accepted Answer

Bed rest with vestibular suppressants and gradual mobilization

Answer

In the acute phase of vestibular neuritis, bed rest with vestibular suppressants followed by gradual mobilization as tolerated is recommended; aggressive rehabilitation is contraindicated until the acute inflammatory phase subsides.

(NCS) Neurologic Clinical Specialist Practice Test

(NCS) Neurologic Clinical Specialist Practice Test

NCS Patient Management 4