NPTE-PT NPTE-PT Test Pharmacology and Medical Sciences Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

Which lab value indicates the highest concern for initiating resistive exercise in a patient receiving chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Platelet count below 50,000/mm³

Answer

A platelet count below 50,000/mm³ significantly increases bleeding risk, contraindicating high-intensity resistive exercise.

Question 2

A patient with Type 2 diabetes is scheduled for a 60-minute PT session. Blood glucose before exercise is 60 mg/dL. The therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Delay exercise and provide a carbohydrate snack

Answer

A pre-exercise glucose below 70 mg/dL indicates hypoglycemia; the PT should delay exercise and give 15–20 g of fast-acting carbohydrate.

Question 3

A patient taking lithium for bipolar disorder reports muscle tremors and confusion during a PT session. The PT should:

Accepted Answer

Stop treatment, assess vitals, and contact the physician immediately

Answer

Tremors and confusion in a lithium patient may signal lithium toxicity, a medical emergency requiring immediate physician contact.

Question 4

Which diuretic side effect most directly requires modification of a PT exercise program?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia causing muscle weakness

Answer

Hypokalemia from diuretics impairs skeletal muscle function and can cause weakness, cramping, and arrhythmias affecting exercise safety.

Question 5

A patient is prescribed opioid analgesics post-surgery. Which PT consideration is MOST important?

Accepted Answer

Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression that could impair exercise safety

Answer

Opioids cause CNS depression and sedation, which can impair balance, coordination, and safe participation in PT.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test