PC Treatment Planning & Management 5

Question 1

Which antibiotic class is most appropriate as first-line oral therapy for a mild, non-limb-threatening diabetic foot infection with suspected Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)?

Accepted Answer

Antistaphylococcal penicillins or first-generation cephalosporins (e.g., cephalexin)

Answer

For mild diabetic foot infections where MSSA is suspected, cephalexin or dicloxacillin provides targeted gram-positive coverage with an excellent oral bioavailability and safety profile.

Question 2

A patient post-Lapidus bunionectomy (first tarsometatarsal arthrodesis) is progressing well at 8 weeks with radiographic signs of fusion. The next step in management is:

Accepted Answer

Transition to stiff-soled shoe or surgical shoe and begin protected weight bearing

Answer

At 8 weeks with early radiographic fusion, transitioning to a stiff-soled shoe with protected weight bearing advances rehabilitation while protecting the maturing fusion site.

Question 3

A patient with severe hallux rigidus (Grade III) who remains active and wishes to preserve joint motion is best managed with:

Accepted Answer

Cheilectomy to remove dorsal osteophytes and decompress the joint

Answer

Cheilectomy removes the dorsal 20–30% of the metatarsal head and osteophytes, restoring adequate dorsiflexion for motion-preserving management of Grade II–III hallux rigidus in active patients.

Question 4

When applying a posterior splint for an acute ankle sprain in the emergency or podiatric setting, the ankle should be positioned at:

Accepted Answer

Neutral (90 degrees) to slight dorsiflexion

Answer

The ankle is held at neutral (90°) or slight dorsiflexion in a posterior splint to keep the Achilles tendon and ligaments in a functional position and prevent equinus contracture.

Question 5

For a patient with symptomatic tarsal coalition causing rigid flatfoot, at what age is surgical resection of a calcaneonavicular coalition most favorable?

Accepted Answer

Before age 16, when fibrocartilaginous and bony changes are minimal

Answer

Resection of calcaneonavicular coalitions is most successful before age 16 when secondary arthritic changes are limited and the coalition has not fully ossified, allowing better restoration of mobility.

(PC) Podiatrist Certification Practice Test

(PC) Podiatrist Certification Practice Test

PC Treatment Planning & Management 5