NPTE-PT NPTE-PT Test Therapeutic Modalities Application Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

A physical therapist is using therapeutic ultrasound to treat adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. To maximize collagen extensibility in the posterior capsule, which parameters are MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

1 MHz, continuous, 1.5 W/cm², 8 minutes

Answer

3 MHz, pulsed 20%, 0.5 W/cm², 5 minutes

Answer

3 MHz, continuous, 2.0 W/cm², 3 minutes

Answer

1 MHz, pulsed 50%, 0.8 W/cm², 10 minutes

Question 2

When using interferential current (IFC) therapy for a patient with chronic hip pain, what is the PRIMARY advantage of IFC over conventional TENS?

Accepted Answer

IFC produces deeper current penetration due to reduced skin impedance at higher frequencies

Answer

IFC uses lower carrier frequencies that are more comfortable

Answer

IFC is the only electrical stimulation that can cross bone

Answer

IFC directly stimulates C-fiber pain pathways more effectively

Question 3

A patient with a stage III pressure injury on the sacrum is being treated with electrical stimulation to promote wound healing. Which current type and electrode configuration is BEST supported by evidence?

Accepted Answer

High-voltage pulsed current with the positive electrode over the wound during the inflammatory phase

Answer

Russian stimulation with bipolar electrodes around the wound margins

Answer

Interferential current with four electrodes crossing the wound bed

Answer

TENS at sensory-level intensity with electrodes distal to the wound

Question 4

A physical therapist wants to use laser therapy (photobiomodulation) on a patient Achilles tendon to promote tissue repair. Which of the following is a contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Direct application over a known malignant tumor

Answer

Application over a dark-skinned patient

Answer

Previous allergic reaction to NSAIDs

Answer

Application to a tendon with chronic tendinopathy

Question 5

A physical therapist is treating a patient with myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius using dry needling combined with electrical stimulation. What frequency range is typically used to elicit a local twitch response and reduce trigger point irritability?

Accepted Answer

1-2 Hz to produce individual muscle twitches

Answer

80-120 Hz to produce tetanic contraction of the trigger point

Answer

200-300 Hz to fatigue the motor endplate

Answer

10-15 Hz with a long pulse duration of 10 ms

Question 6

A physical therapist selects a warm whirlpool for a patient with peripheral vascular disease and a non-healing wound on the lower extremity. The water temperature should NOT exceed which value?

Accepted Answer

92°F (33°C)

Answer

98°F (36.7°C)

Answer

102°F (38.9°C)

Answer

110°F (43.3°C)