PAM Treatment Protocols & Procedures 3

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of the gate control theory as applied to conventional TENS?

Accepted Answer

Large-diameter A-beta fibers activated by TENS close the 'gate' in the dorsal horn, inhibiting pain signal transmission

Answer

Conventional TENS activates large-diameter A-beta fibers that inhibit transmission of nociceptive signals at the dorsal horn gate, reducing perceived pain.

Question 2

When using cryotherapy via ice massage, the sequence of sensations the patient should experience in order is:

Accepted Answer

Cold → burning → aching → numbness

Answer

The CBAN sequence (Cold, Burning, Aching, Numbness) is the expected progression during ice massage, indicating adequate cooling before treatment.

Question 3

A patient is being treated with diathermy over a recent metal implant in the knee. The therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Avoid diathermy entirely over the area containing the metal implant

Answer

Metal implants concentrate electromagnetic energy and can cause excessive heating and burns, making diathermy over implanted metal an absolute contraindication.

Question 4

For phonophoresis to be effective, the coupling medium containing the medication must have a transmission value of at least:

Accepted Answer

70%

Answer

A transmission value of at least 70% is required for the coupling medium in phonophoresis to ensure adequate acoustic energy reaches the tissue along with the medication.

Question 5

Which clinical sign during fluidotherapy treatment would prompt the therapist to immediately discontinue the session?

Accepted Answer

Blister formation or tissue breakdown

Answer

Blistering or tissue breakdown during any thermal modality indicates a thermal burn and requires immediate discontinuation and wound assessment.

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

PAM Treatment Protocols & Procedures 3