NPTE-PT Neuromuscular System Examination 3

Question 1

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) assesses which three areas?

Accepted Answer

Eye opening, verbal response, motor response

Answer

The GCS evaluates eye opening (1–4), verbal response (1–5), and motor response (1–6), with a maximum score of 15 indicating full consciousness.

Question 2

A patient with a stroke has weakness of the right face, arm, and leg. Where is the lesion most likely located?

Accepted Answer

Left middle cerebral artery territory

Answer

The motor cortex in the left hemisphere controls the right side of the body; MCA strokes typically cause contralateral hemiplegia with arm and face more affected than leg.

Question 3

Which test uses tuning fork vibration placed on a bony prominence to assess peripheral sensory nerve function?

Accepted Answer

Vibration sense test

Answer

A 128 Hz tuning fork placed on bony prominences (e.g., medial malleolus, great toe) tests large-fiber sensory function carried by the dorsal columns.

Question 4

A positive Hoffman sign is indicative of:

Accepted Answer

Upper motor neuron dysfunction in the upper extremity

Answer

A positive Hoffman sign (reflex finger flexion when the middle finger nail is flicked) suggests an upper motor neuron lesion affecting the cervical spinal cord or brain.

Question 5

Which condition is characterized by an intention tremor, nystagmus, and ataxic gait — all signs of cerebellar dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis

Answer

Multiple sclerosis commonly causes cerebellar signs including intention tremor, nystagmus, and ataxia due to demyelination of cerebellar pathways.

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NPTE-PT Neuromuscular System Examination 3