NPTE-PTA Therapeutic Modalities and Electrotherapy 3

Question 1

Phonophoresis differs from standard ultrasound in that it:

Accepted Answer

Drives topical medication into deeper tissues using ultrasound energy

Answer

Phonophoresis uses ultrasound energy to enhance the transdermal delivery of topical medications such as hydrocortisone or diclofenac into deeper tissues.

Question 2

A PTA applies a heating agent and notices the patient's skin turns bright red and blistered. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Remove the modality, cool the area, and document the adverse event

Answer

Blistering indicates a thermal burn; the modality must be removed immediately, the area cooled with room-temperature water, and the adverse event documented and reported.

Question 3

Which parameter in electrical stimulation determines the duration of each individual pulse?

Accepted Answer

Pulse duration (width)

Answer

Pulse duration (width), measured in microseconds, determines how long each individual electrical pulse lasts and influences which nerve fibers are recruited.

Question 4

Shortwave diathermy is most useful for heating which tissue type?

Accepted Answer

Deep musculature and joint structures

Answer

Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to heat deep muscle and periarticular tissues to a depth of 3–5 cm.

Question 5

What is the primary reason a PTA uses a coupling medium (gel) with therapeutic ultrasound?

Accepted Answer

To eliminate the air interface between the transducer and skin, preventing reflection

Answer

Ultrasound waves reflect off air; coupling gel eliminates the air gap between the transducer and skin, ensuring maximal energy transmission into the tissue.

NPTE-PTA - National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants Practice Test

NPTE-PTA - National Physical Therapy Examination for Physical Therapist Assistants Practice Test

NPTE-PTA Therapeutic Modalities and Electrotherapy 3