Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Patient Assessment and Management Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient with a new short leg cast complains of a 'pins and needles' sensation and coolness in their toes.
Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial action for the Orthopaedic Technologist?

Accepted Answer

Immediately perform a neurovascular assessment of the affected extremity.

Answer

Instruct the patient to elevate the leg and apply ice.

Answer

Document the findings and inform the physician at the next rounding.

Answer

Loosen the cast slightly and reassure the patient that this is normal.

Question 2

During a patient interview, an elderly patient accompanied by a family member seems hesitant to describe the circumstances of their wrist injury, frequently looking at the family member before answering. What is the most appropriate approach for the Orthopaedic Technologist?

Accepted Answer

Continue the interview with both present, but rephrase questions in a non-judgmental and open-ended manner.

Answer

Ask the family member to leave the room to ensure patient privacy.

Answer

Direct all questions to the family member to get the information quickly.

Answer

Document 'patient is a poor historian' and proceed with the physical exam.

Question 3

Which of the following is a critical component of patient and family education after the application of a cast?

Accepted Answer

Explaining the signs and symptoms of complications that require immediate medical attention.

Answer

Providing a detailed overview of the surgical procedure that necessitated the cast.

Answer

Guaranteeing a specific timeframe for cast removal.

Answer

Demonstrating how to properly use a wire hanger to scratch an itch under the cast.

Question 4

A 15-year-old athlete presents with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the tibial tubercle. They report the pain is worse after running and jumping. This presentation is most consistent with which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Osgood-Schlatter disease

Answer

Tibial stress fracture

Answer

Patellar tendonitis

Answer

Compartment syndrome

Question 5

When assessing a patient for an orthopaedic injury, which part of the examination involves evaluating the skin for color, temperature, and integrity?

Accepted Answer

Inspection

Answer

Palpation

Answer

Auscultation

Answer

Range of Motion

Question 6

A patient is being prepared for cast removal. Which statement by the Orthopaedic Technologist is most appropriate to manage patient anxiety?

Accepted Answer

"The cast saw vibrates to cut the hard material but is unlikely to harm your skin. It will be noisy and you will feel warmth and a tickling sensation."

Answer

"Don't worry, this saw is designed not to cut skin, so you'll be fine."

Answer

"This will be very loud, but it is important to hold as still as possible so you don't get cut."

Answer

"We need to get this off quickly, so just try to relax."