NPTE-PT Equipment and Therapeutic Modalities 2

Question 1

A patient with chronic low back pain is treated with ultrasound. Which parameter setting produces the greatest depth of penetration?

Accepted Answer

1 MHz at 100% duty cycle

Answer

3 MHz at 50% duty cycle

Answer

1 MHz at 50% duty cycle

Answer

3 MHz at 100% duty cycle

Question 2

Which type of traction is MOST appropriate for a patient with acute cervical radiculopathy who cannot tolerate positional changes?

Accepted Answer

Manual traction in supine

Answer

Intermittent mechanical traction

Answer

Continuous mechanical traction

Answer

Positional traction

Question 3

A physical therapist is setting up a TENS unit for postoperative pain. Which mode delivers a continuous high-frequency, low-intensity current most effective for immediate pain relief?

Accepted Answer

Conventional (high-frequency) TENS

Answer

Burst mode TENS

Answer

Acupuncture-like TENS

Answer

Brief-intense TENS

Question 4

When using iontophoresis to deliver dexamethasone for inflammation, which electrode placement is correct?

Accepted Answer

Dexamethasone under the negative electrode

Answer

Dexamethasone under the positive electrode

Answer

Dexamethasone alternated between both electrodes

Answer

Electrode polarity is irrelevant for dexamethasone

Question 5

A patient with Raynaud's phenomenon is being considered for cryotherapy. What is the PRIMARY contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Cold hypersensitivity / vasospastic disorder

Answer

Active infection

Answer

Impaired sensation

Answer

Open wound

Question 6

During fluidotherapy treatment, the therapist notices the patient has an open wound on the treated extremity. What is the MOST appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Discontinue treatment immediately

Answer

Continue treatment with a water-proof dressing

Answer

Lower the temperature setting below 38°C

Answer

Increase the cellulose particle agitation to improve circulation

Question 7

A therapist applies shortwave diathermy to a patient with a total knee replacement. Why is this contraindicated?

Accepted Answer

Metal implants concentrate electromagnetic energy, causing excessive heating

Answer

Diathermy increases joint effusion around implants

Answer

The magnetic field demagnetizes the implant

Answer

Shortwave diathermy is only contraindicated for pacemakers