PAM Safety & Infection Control 3

Question 1

The primary purpose of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet in a hydrotherapy area is to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent electrocution by detecting current leakage to ground

Answer

GFCI outlets monitor current flow and trip within milliseconds when leakage current is detected, preventing potentially fatal electrocution in wet environments.

Question 2

Which isolation precaution category is MOST appropriate for a patient with active pulmonary tuberculosis receiving chest physical therapy?

Accepted Answer

Airborne precautions with N95 respirator

Answer

Pulmonary TB is transmitted via airborne droplet nuclei (≤5 µm); the treating therapist must use a fit-tested N95 respirator and treat the patient in a negative-pressure room.

Question 3

When using electrical stimulation near an implanted cardiac pacemaker, the GREATEST concern is:

Accepted Answer

Electromagnetic interference causing pacemaker malfunction

Answer

Electrical stimulation can produce electromagnetic interference that disrupts pacemaker sensing or pacing functions, creating a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia.

Question 4

A cold pack applied directly to intact skin for 20 minutes is MOST likely to cause which adverse effect?

Accepted Answer

Frost nip with temporary numbness and blanching

Answer

A standard cold pack does not reach temperatures low enough for true frostbite on intact skin within 20 minutes, but frost nip—characterized by numbness and blanching—is the most likely adverse event.

Question 5

Sharps used during treatment (e.g., acupuncture needles, lancets) must be disposed of in:

Accepted Answer

A puncture-resistant, leak-proof sharps container

Answer

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard requires immediate disposal of sharps into FDA-cleared, puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers to prevent needlestick injuries.

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

PAM Safety & Infection Control 3