Occupational Therapist Test Hand Therapy and Upper Extremity Flashcards

The intrinsic plus (safe position) for hand splinting includes which joint positions to prevent collateral ligament contractures?

Answer: MCP flexion 70-90°, IP full extension, thumb abduction

The intrinsic plus position (MCPs 70-90° flexion, IPs fully extended, thumb abducted) keeps collateral ligaments at maximum length, preventing shortening during immobilization.

Allen's Test is performed in hand therapy to assess:

Answer: Patency of the radial and ulnar arteries supplying the hand

Allen's Test evaluates vascular patency by occluding both arteries simultaneously, then releasing each individually to observe palmar blood return.

A client presents with inability to actively extend the DIP joint after the fingertip was struck by a ball. This presentation is most consistent with:

Answer: Mallet finger

Mallet finger results from disruption of the terminal extensor tendon at or near the DIP joint, preventing active DIP extension.

Carpal tunnel syndrome results from compression of which nerve?

Answer: Median nerve

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel, producing numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and radial ring finger.

Which combination of interventions is most effective for managing acute hand and wrist edema in OT?

Answer: Retrograde massage, limb elevation, and compressive wrapping

Retrograde massage (distal to proximal), elevation above heart level, and compressive wrapping work together to mechanically move fluid out of the hand.

The Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament Test is used in hand therapy to assess:

Answer: Cutaneous pressure threshold (light touch sensitivity)

The Semmes-Weinstein test uses calibrated nylon monofilaments of increasing diameter to determine the threshold at which cutaneous pressure can be detected.