NPTE-PT General Exam 5

Question 1

A patient with multiple sclerosis is being assessed with the Berg Balance Scale. Which score indicates a HIGH fall risk?

Accepted Answer

Below 36

Answer

Berg Balance Scale scores below 36 indicate a near 100% fall risk; scores of 41–56 indicate low fall risk in community-dwelling adults.

Question 2

During ultrasound treatment of a chronic Achilles tendinopathy, the therapist selects 1 MHz over 3 MHz. The rationale is that 1 MHz:

Accepted Answer

Penetrates deeper into tissue (up to 5 cm)

Answer

1 MHz ultrasound has a longer wavelength that allows penetration to approximately 3–5 cm, reaching deeper structures like the Achilles tendon.

Question 3

A patient with COPD has an arterial blood gas showing pH 7.32, PaCO2 58 mmHg, and HCO3 30 mEq/L. This is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Respiratory acidosis with metabolic compensation

Answer

Elevated PaCO2 (>45) with a low pH indicates respiratory acidosis; the elevated bicarbonate reflects renal compensation over time.

Question 4

A therapist is treating a patient post-ACL reconstruction. During which phase of rehabilitation is it appropriate to initiate plyometric training?

Accepted Answer

Late phase when quad strength reaches at least 80–90% limb symmetry index

Answer

Plyometrics require neuromuscular control and strength sufficient to protect the graft; a limb symmetry index of at least 80–90% is the standard threshold.

Question 5

Which cranial nerve is responsible for both the afferent and efferent limbs of the gag reflex?

Accepted Answer

CN IX and CN X

Answer

The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) carries the afferent signal, and the vagus nerve (CN X) mediates the efferent motor response of the gag reflex.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT General Exam 5