OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Neurovascular Assessment 2

Question 1

The posterior tibial pulse is most accurately palpated at which anatomical location?

Accepted Answer

Posterior to the medial malleolus

Answer

Anterior to the lateral malleolus

Answer

In the popliteal fossa

Answer

Along the medial tibial border

Question 2

Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action when an orthopaedic technologist identifies signs of acute neurovascular compromise in a casted extremity?

Accepted Answer

Immediately notify the supervising physician and prepare for cast bivalving or removal

Answer

Elevate the extremity and reassess in 30 minutes

Answer

Apply ice to reduce swelling and reassess

Answer

Document findings and notify the physician at the next scheduled check

Question 3

Compartment pressures are considered critical and typically warrant emergency fasciotomy when they reach within how many mmHg of the patient's diastolic blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

30 mmHg

Answer

50 mmHg

Answer

10 mmHg

Answer

20 mmHg

Question 4

Testing the ability to abduct and adduct the fingers assesses function of which nerve in the upper extremity?

Accepted Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

Median nerve

Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

Musculocutaneous nerve

Question 5

An orthopaedic technologist is assessing a patient with a distal radius fracture and notices the patient cannot oppose the thumb to the little finger. Which nerve is most likely compromised?

Accepted Answer

Median nerve

Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

Anterior interosseous nerve

Question 6

Which color change in the skin most strongly suggests arterial occlusion in a limb with an orthopaedic injury?

Accepted Answer

Pallor (white/pale)

Answer

Cyanosis (blue)

Answer

Erythema (red)

Answer

Mottling only

Question 7

How frequently should neurovascular checks be performed immediately following cast or splint application in an acute fracture patient?

Accepted Answer

Every 30 to 60 minutes for the first few hours, then per protocol

Answer

Once every 8 hours

Answer

Only if the patient reports pain

Answer

Every 24 hours