NPTE-PTA National Physical Therapist Assistant 3

Question 1

A PTA is performing iontophoresis with dexamethasone to treat plantar fasciitis. The dexamethasone should be placed under which electrode?

Accepted Answer

Cathode (negative)

Answer

Dexamethasone carries a negative charge and must be placed under the cathode (negative electrode) to be driven into tissue by iontophoresis.

Question 2

A patient with C5 ASIA A tetraplegia is being trained in functional activities. Which task is WITHIN the expected functional capacity for this level?

Accepted Answer

Feeding using mobile arm supports

Answer

C5 ASIA A patients retain shoulder flexion and elbow flexion (biceps), allowing feeding with adaptive equipment such as mobile arm supports.

Question 3

When applying a hot pack to a patient's lumbar region, the PTA places 6 layers of toweling. After 5 minutes, the patient reports the heat feels very comfortable. What should the PTA do?

Accepted Answer

Continue treatment and reassess at 10 minutes

Answer

A comfortable sensation with appropriate insulation after 5 minutes is expected; the PTA should continue and reassess the skin at regular intervals.

Question 4

A patient is ambulating with Lofstrand (forearm) crutches. Elbow flexion during stance should be approximately:

Accepted Answer

15-30 degrees

Answer

Elbow flexion of 15-30 degrees during stance with forearm crutches allows optimal weight transfer and shock absorption through the upper extremity.

Question 5

A PTA is treating a patient with rheumatoid arthritis of the hands. Which exercise principle is MOST important to protect joint integrity?

Accepted Answer

Use light resistance and avoid positions that stress joint surfaces

Answer

Joint protection during RA hand exercise requires light resistance and avoiding positions (such as ulnar deviation under load) that stress already compromised joint surfaces.

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 National Physical Therapist Assistant 3