OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Spinal and Pelvic Immobilization 3

Question 1

What is the recommended torque for tightening halo skull pins in an adult patient?

Accepted Answer

8 in-lb

Answer

Standard adult halo pin torque is 8 in-lb; over-tightening risks bone penetration and under-tightening risks loosening.

Question 2

Which spinal orthosis provides the greatest restriction of cervical rotation?

Accepted Answer

Four-poster brace

Answer

The four-poster brace provides superior restriction of all cervical motions including rotation due to its rigid anterior and posterior uprights.

Question 3

During spinal board immobilization, padding is placed beneath the occiput of an adult patient primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Maintain neutral cervical alignment

Answer

Occipital padding offsets the protuberance of the head to keep the cervical spine in neutral alignment on a flat board.

Question 4

Which pelvic fracture pattern is most commonly associated with a need for emergent external fixation?

Accepted Answer

Open book (APC-II/III) pelvic ring disruption

Answer

Open book injuries cause significant pelvic volume expansion and hemorrhage, requiring emergent fixation to control bleeding.

Question 5

A thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO) is contraindicated as a primary treatment in which of the following injuries?

Accepted Answer

Chance fracture (flexion-distraction injury)

Answer

Chance fractures are unstable three-column injuries that typically require surgical stabilization, not bracing alone.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test