PAM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PAM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which patient condition warrants special precaution when applying any heat modality? → Peripheral arterial disease
2. During an initial evaluation, what should be documented first? → Patient demographics and chief complaint
3. Why are metal implants in the treatment area an absolute contraindication for shortwave diathermy? → Metal concentrates diathermy energy and can cause severe internal burns
4. What is the primary therapeutic effect of cold water hydrotherapy? → Vasoconstriction and decreased swelling
5. Which of the following is NOT a typical use for electrotherapy? → Increasing bone density.
6. How often should a practitioner review applicable regulations and standards? → Regularly, as regulations are updated frequently and compliance is ongoing
7. Which hydrotherapy modality delivers high-velocity water jets directed at a specific body part? → Whirlpool
8. Which documentation practice best supports legal defensibility? → Objective, factual entries with specific measurements and timestamps
9. What is the primary purpose of maintaining a clean field during procedures? → To minimize the risk of introducing pathogens to the treatment area
10. What is the effect of spinal traction on intradiscal pressure? → Decreases intradiscal pressure
11. Over which area should therapeutic ultrasound never be applied in pediatric patients? → Epiphyseal growth plates
12. When transitioning between treatment phases, what is essential? → Document the rationale for change and update goals accordingly
13. Which medication is commonly used in phonophoresis? → Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone.
14. A patient with confirmed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) should NOT receive which intervention? → Electrical stimulation over the affected extremity
15. What are the physiological effects of cold therapy? → Reduces blood flow and numbs the area.
16. What is the primary purpose of electrotherapy in physical therapy? → To stimulate muscles and reduce pain.
17. Mechanical traction is MOST appropriately indicated for which diagnosis? → Cervical radiculopathy from disc herniation
18. A patient with an open wound is receiving whirlpool hydrotherapy. What is the primary safety concern? → Infection control and cross-contamination
19. Which additive is sometimes used in whirlpool water during wound care treatment? → Diluted sodium hypochlorite solution
20. What is the main effect of light therapy in physical rehabilitation? → To promote tissue healing, reduce pain, and decrease inflammation.
21. What documentation is required when equipment is replaced or upgraded? → Asset tracking records, disposal documentation, and updated operating procedures
22. Why is electrical stimulation contraindicated directly over malignant tissue? → It may increase cellular metabolism and potentially accelerate tumor growth or spread
23. What patient position is recommended for lumbar traction to reduce lumbar lordosis and paraspinal muscle tension? → Supine with hips and knees flexed to 90 degrees
24. What is the therapeutic purpose of a sitz bath? → Perineal and pelvic region treatment
25. How does understanding tissue healing phases improve practice? → It guides appropriate treatment timing and technique selection
26. When should contrast baths (alternating hot and cold therapy) be used in therapy? → To reduce swelling and improve circulation.
27. The typical maximum recommended force for cervical mechanical traction is: → 15–25 lbs
28. How should equipment cleaning products be selected? → Based on manufacturer recommendations and material compatibility
29. In which situation is TENS during pregnancy considered a precaution rather than an absolute contraindication? → Over the abdominal and pelvic region during pregnancy
30. Why is knowledge of the circulatory system important for practitioners? → It helps identify contraindications and understand treatment effects on blood flow