OTC Orthopaedic Technologist 4

Question 1

Which bone is most commonly fractured in the wrist and is at high risk for avascular necrosis due to its blood supply?

Accepted Answer

Scaphoid

Answer

The scaphoid is the most commonly fractured carpal bone and receives most of its blood supply distally, making proximal pole fractures prone to avascular necrosis.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of bivalving a cast?

Accepted Answer

To relieve pressure and accommodate swelling

Answer

Bivalving (splitting the cast longitudinally on two sides) relieves circumferential pressure, accommodating acute swelling and reducing the risk of compartment syndrome.

Question 3

A patient with a hip fracture placed in Buck's skin traction should have the weight limited to what maximum?

Accepted Answer

2–5 lbs

Answer

Buck's traction uses skin adhesives or foam boot and is limited to 2–5 lbs (1–2 kg) to prevent skin breakdown and circulatory compromise.

Question 4

Which assessment tool using the mnemonic '6 Ps' is used to evaluate neurovascular status of an extremity in a cast?

Accepted Answer

Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, Paralysis, Pressure

Answer

The 6 Ps of vascular assessment are Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, Paralysis, and Pressure (or Poikilothermia), used to detect compartment syndrome and vascular compromise.

Question 5

Which of the following splint types is used to immobilize the thumb and wrist for conditions such as de Quervain's tenosynovitis?

Accepted Answer

Thumb spica splint

Answer

A thumb spica splint immobilizes the thumb and wrist, making it appropriate for scaphoid fractures, de Quervain's tenosynovitis, and thumb UCL injuries.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist 4