Occupational Therapist Flashcards

Which of the following should an occupational therapist undertake while teaching pulmonary exercises to a patient with COPD?

Answer: Teach purse-lip breathing techniques

For patients with COPD, teaching purse-lip breathing techniques is a crucial intervention. This technique helps to slow down exhalation, keep airways open longer, and improve gas exchange, thereby reducing shortness of breath and making breathing more efficient. It is a fundamental skill taught in pulmonary rehabilitation to manage symptoms.

A patient with COPD and fibromyalgia who received both diagnoses lately is being treated by an occupational therapist. Which of the ensuing duties ought to the occupational therapist assign to a helper?

Answer: Transferring the patient during the third visit

Transferring a patient, especially after the occupational therapist (OT) has assessed their needs and established a safe plan, is a task that can be delegated to a helper or occupational therapy assistant (OTA). By the third visit, the OT would have ensured the helper is competent and the patient's needs are understood. Evaluating, educating, and initial vital sign monitoring require the OT's clinical judgment.

In an outpatient orthopedic clinic, an occupational therapist is employed. The patient states, "I tore 3 of my 4 Rotator cuff muscles in the past," throughout the patient's history. Which of the following muscles can never be thought to be torn?

Answer: Teres major

The rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. The Teres major muscle is not part of the rotator cuff group. Therefore, it cannot be torn as one of the 'rotator cuff muscles.'

A 60-year-old male has been identified as having CHF and COPD. During inpatient therapy, the patient had gained 10 pounds in total over the past three days. The occupational therapist should:

Answer: Check the intake and output on the patient's flow sheet

A 10-pound weight gain in three days for a patient with CHF and COPD is a critical sign of fluid retention, which can severely worsen both conditions. The occupational therapist's immediate priority is to check the patient's intake and output (I&O) records. This provides vital information on fluid balance, which must be reported to the physician for urgent medical intervention.

Which option from the list below accurately describes the TAM score?

Answer: The total of a finger's flexion measurements minus the total extension measurements

The Total Active Motion (TAM) score for a finger is calculated by summing the active flexion measurements of the MCP, PIP, and DIP joints, and then subtracting the sum of any extension deficits (lags) at these same joints. This formula provides a comprehensive measure of the finger's overall active range of motion. It quantifies the total arc of movement available.

A patient with active TB and HIV has been given the go-ahead to get hand wound treatment from an occupational therapist. Which of the following safety gear should the occupational therapist wear?

Answer: Goggles, mask, gloves, and gown

For a patient with active TB, airborne precautions are necessary, requiring an N95 mask (or equivalent). HIV requires standard precautions. During wound care, there is a risk of splashes, so goggles, a gown, and gloves are also essential to protect mucous membranes and prevent contact transmission. Therefore, goggles, mask, gloves, and gown provide comprehensive protection.

A 20-year-old patient in a mental health lockdown facility on suicide watch seemed relieved to be getting out of there. Which of the following is most likely taking place?

Answer: The patient's suicide plan has probably progressed

In a mental health setting, a sudden sense of relief or calm in a patient on suicide watch can be a critical warning sign. This often indicates that the patient has finalized a suicide plan and feels a sense of resolution, rather than an actual improvement in their mental state. Such a change requires immediate and heightened vigilance from staff.