OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Neurovascular Assessment 3

Question 1

During neurovascular assessment of a patient with a supracondylar humerus fracture in a child, which artery is most at risk and should be specifically evaluated?

Accepted Answer

Brachial artery

Answer

The brachial artery passes directly anterior to the elbow joint and is the artery most commonly injured in supracondylar humerus fractures in children.

Question 2

A patient reports that their fingers feel numb and cold after forearm cast application. The orthopaedic technologist observes sluggish capillary refill of 4 seconds. The MOST appropriate immediate action is:

Accepted Answer

Split the cast and padding to relieve pressure, then reassess

Answer

Bivalving (splitting) the cast and all underlying padding is the standard initial intervention to relieve pressure while maintaining some support until the physician is notified.

Question 3

Sensation over the dorsum of the foot (excluding the first web space) is primarily supplied by which nerve?

Accepted Answer

Superficial peroneal nerve

Answer

The superficial peroneal nerve supplies most of the dorsal foot sensation, while the deep peroneal nerve is responsible only for the first web space.

Question 4

In documenting a neurovascular assessment, which of the following findings should be recorded with each check?

Accepted Answer

Capillary refill, skin color, temperature, sensation, movement, and pulses

Answer

A complete neurovascular check documents capillary refill, color, temperature, sensation, movement, and pulse quality to provide a comprehensive baseline and track changes over time.

Question 5

Loss of sensation on the medial aspect of the forearm and hypothenar eminence most likely indicates injury to which nerve?

Accepted Answer

Ulnar nerve

Answer

The ulnar nerve provides sensory innervation to the little finger, medial half of the ring finger, and the hypothenar eminence of the palm.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Neurovascular Assessment 3