OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Neurovascular Assessment

Question 1

Which mnemonic is commonly used to remember the key components of neurovascular assessment in orthopaedic patients?

Accepted Answer

The 5 Ps: Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, Paralysis

Answer

The 4 Ds: Discoloration, Dysfunction, Drainage, Deformity

Answer

The 3 Cs: Circulation, Capillary refill, Color

Answer

The 6 Ss: Swelling, Stiffness, Sensation, Spasm, Strength, Skin

Question 2

What is considered a normal capillary refill time (CRT) in an adult orthopaedic patient?

Accepted Answer

Less than 2 seconds

Answer

2 to 4 seconds

Answer

4 to 6 seconds

Answer

Less than 1 second

Question 3

When assessing radial nerve function after a humeral shaft fracture, which specific motor action should the orthopaedic technologist evaluate?

Accepted Answer

Wrist and finger extension

Answer

Thumb opposition

Answer

Finger abduction

Answer

Wrist flexion

Question 4

Sensation over the web space between the first and second toes is used to assess which nerve?

Accepted Answer

Deep peroneal nerve

Answer

Superficial peroneal nerve

Answer

Sural nerve

Answer

Saphenous nerve

Question 5

When performing a neurovascular check after cast application, the orthopaedic technologist notes the patient has increased pain with passive stretch of the fingers. This finding most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Developing compartment syndrome

Answer

Normal post-casting discomfort

Answer

Peripheral neuropathy

Answer

Arterial spasm only

Question 6

Which pulse is assessed at the dorsum of the foot to evaluate vascular integrity of the lower extremity distal to a tibial fracture?

Accepted Answer

Dorsalis pedis pulse

Answer

Posterior tibial pulse

Answer

Popliteal pulse

Answer

Femoral pulse

Question 7

In a neurovascular assessment, 'paresthesia' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness, or burning

Answer

Complete loss of motor function

Answer

Skin color changes indicating poor perfusion

Answer

Increased pain at the fracture site