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 5 Ps (Pain, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paresthesia, Paralysis) are the classic signs used to assess neurovascular compromise in orthopaedic injuries.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Less than 2 seconds

Answer

Capillary refill time less than 2 seconds is considered normal in adults; a CRT greater than 2 seconds may indicate impaired peripheral circulation.

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

The radial nerve innervates the wrist and finger extensors; inability to extend the wrist (wrist drop) is the classic sign of radial nerve injury associated with humeral shaft fractures.

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

The deep peroneal nerve supplies sensation to the first dorsal web space between the great toe and second toe and is assessed with lower extremity injuries.

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

Pain with passive stretch of muscles within a compartment is an early and reliable sign of developing compartment syndrome, which requires immediate evaluation.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test

OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Neurovascular Assessment