NPTE-PTA National Physical Therapist Assistant 4

Question 1

A PTA is treating a 70-year-old patient with osteoporosis. Which exercise type has the GREATEST evidence for improving bone mineral density?

Accepted Answer

Progressive resistance and weight-bearing impact exercise

Answer

Progressive resistance training combined with weight-bearing impact activities (such as walking or low-impact aerobics) provides the mechanical loading stimulus needed to increase bone mineral density.

Question 2

A patient receiving outpatient PT tells the PTA they were recently diagnosed with HIV. The PTA's FIRST response should be to:

Accepted Answer

Continue treatment using standard precautions only

Answer

HIV is transmitted through blood and body fluids, not casual contact; standard precautions are sufficient for routine PT treatment of a patient with HIV.

Question 3

When using mechanical lumbar traction, the minimum force required to produce vertebral separation in a typical adult patient is approximately:

Accepted Answer

25-50% of body weight

Answer

Approximately 25-50% of body weight is required to overcome friction and produce actual vertebral separation during mechanical lumbar traction.

Question 4

A patient is performing a standing balance exercise on a foam pad with eyes closed. This activity primarily challenges the:

Accepted Answer

Vestibular system and somatosensory integration

Answer

Eyes closed on an unstable surface removes both visual and somatosensory cues, forcing the vestibular system to take primary responsibility for balance.

Question 5

A patient with a flaccid neurogenic bladder following a cauda equina injury asks the PTA about bladder management. The MOST appropriate response is to:

Accepted Answer

Explain the condition and refer to the PT and physician for bladder management planning

Answer

Bladder management for neurogenic dysfunction requires physician and PT coordination; the PTA should educate the patient and facilitate the appropriate referral.

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 4