OCS Surgical & Post-Operative Care 2

Question 1

Following a total knee arthroplasty (TKA), which ROM milestone should a patient typically achieve by discharge from acute care?

Accepted Answer

0-90° flexion

Answer

A 0-90° arc of motion is the standard discharge goal after TKA, allowing functional sit-to-stand transfers.

Question 2

A patient 3 days post-ACL reconstruction reports calf pain, warmth, and swelling. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the surgeon and screen for DVT

Answer

Calf pain, warmth, and swelling post-operatively are classic DVT warning signs requiring immediate surgical notification and further vascular screening.

Question 3

Which surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) generally requires posterior hip precautions to prevent dislocation?

Accepted Answer

Posterior approach

Answer

The posterior approach violates the posterior capsule and external rotators, necessitating precautions against hip flexion >90°, adduction, and internal rotation.

Question 4

After arthroscopic rotator cuff repair of a large tear, what is the typical duration of immobilization in a sling before initiating passive ROM?

Accepted Answer

4-6 weeks

Answer

Large rotator cuff repairs require 4-6 weeks of immobilization to allow tissue healing before initiating passive motion, as premature movement risks re-tear.

Question 5

A patient 2 weeks post-lumbar spinal fusion presents with increasing pain, fever of 101.5°F, and elevated WBC. What should the physical therapist suspect?

Accepted Answer

Surgical site infection or discitis

Answer

Fever, elevated WBC, and worsening pain 2 weeks post-spinal surgery are cardinal signs of surgical site infection or discitis requiring urgent medical evaluation.

(OCS) Orthopedic Certified Specialist Practice Test

(OCS) Orthopedic Certified Specialist Practice Test

OCS Surgical & Post-Operative Care 2