OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Spinal and Pelvic Immobilization 4

Question 1

In pediatric patients under age 8, how is spinal board positioning modified to achieve neutral cervical alignment?

Accepted Answer

Padding is placed under the thorax to offset the large occiput

Answer

Children under 8 have disproportionately large heads, so thoracic padding raises the torso to prevent forced cervical flexion.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of a Knight-Taylor orthosis?

Accepted Answer

Thoracolumbar flexion and lateral flexion control

Answer

The Knight-Taylor brace controls thoracolumbar flexion and lateral flexion through rigid lateral and posterior uprights.

Question 3

Which complication is most specifically associated with prolonged halo vest use in elderly osteoporotic patients?

Accepted Answer

Pin loosening due to poor bone density

Answer

Osteoporotic bone cannot resist pin torque adequately, leading to early loosening and loss of fixation.

Question 4

When assessing spinal orthosis fit, the practitioner checks for approximately how many finger-widths of clearance under the abdominal panel?

Accepted Answer

1-2 finger-widths

Answer

One to two finger-widths of clearance ensures adequate abdominal support without impeding respiration or causing pressure injury.

Question 5

Which type of pelvic binder placement is associated with increased risk of skin necrosis?

Accepted Answer

Placement at the iliac crests

Answer

Iliac crest placement concentrates compressive force over bony prominences rather than the soft tissue of the greater trochanter region.

Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Test Practice Test