NPTE-PTA Neuromuscular & Nervous System 2

Question 1

A patient with Parkinson's disease demonstrates micrographia and bradykinesia. Which brain structure is primarily affected?

Accepted Answer

Basal ganglia (substantia nigra)

Answer

Parkinson's disease involves degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the basal ganglia.

Question 2

Berg Balance Scale scores of 0–20 indicate:

Accepted Answer

High fall risk requiring wheelchair

Answer

A Berg Balance Scale score of 0–20 indicates high fall risk, and the patient is likely wheelchair dependent.

Question 3

Which cranial nerve is tested by the gag reflex?

Accepted Answer

CN IX and X

Answer

The gag reflex involves the glossopharyngeal (CN IX) as the afferent limb and vagus (CN X) as the efferent limb.

Question 4

In peripheral nerve regeneration, the approximate rate of axon regrowth is:

Accepted Answer

1–3 mm/day

Answer

Peripheral nerve axons regenerate at approximately 1–3 mm per day after injury.

Question 5

A patient post-CVA has difficulty recognizing objects by touch with eyes closed. This is called:

Accepted Answer

Astereognosis

Answer

Astereognosis is the inability to identify objects through tactile exploration without visual input.

NPTE-PTA Test Practice Test