Practical Skills and Problem-Solving Flashcards
6 cards from real PCE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Practical Skills and Problem-Solving flashcards as text
What is the first step in treating a patient with an acute sprained ankle?
Answer: Apply the RICE method
For an acute sprained ankle, the immediate first step in treatment is to apply the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. This approach helps to minimize swelling, reduce pain, and protect the injured tissues from further damage. It is a foundational first-aid strategy before progressing to more active rehabilitation.
What should a physiotherapist do if a patient exhibits signs of a severe allergic reaction during treatment?
Answer: Call for emergency medical assistance
A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. If a patient exhibits signs such as difficulty breathing, swelling, hives, or a sudden drop in blood pressure, the physiotherapist must immediately call for emergency medical assistance. Continuing treatment or attempting to manage it without medical expertise could be fatal.
Which test is commonly used to assess balance in patients at risk of falls?
Answer: Berg Balance Scale
The Berg Balance Scale is a widely used clinical tool specifically designed to assess a patient's static and dynamic balance abilities. It comprises 14 functional tasks that evaluate various aspects of balance, making it highly effective for identifying individuals at risk of falls. This comprehensive scale helps physiotherapists quantify balance deficits and tailor appropriate interventions.
How should a physiotherapist address a patient's limited range of motion after surgery?
Answer: Prescribe passive range of motion exercises
After surgery, limited range of motion is common due to pain, swelling, and tissue healing. Prescribing passive range of motion (PROM) exercises allows the therapist to gently move the patient's limb without active patient effort, which helps restore joint mobility and prevent stiffness. This approach is crucial in early recovery stages to maintain joint health and prepare for active movement without stressing healing tissues.
Which technique is most appropriate for assessing muscle strength in a patient?
Answer: Manual muscle testing
Manual muscle testing (MMT) is a fundamental technique used by physiotherapists to assess the strength of individual muscles or muscle groups. It involves the therapist applying resistance to a patient's limb while the patient attempts to hold a specific position, with strength graded on a standardized scale. This method provides specific information about muscle weakness, aiding in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
What is the most effective approach for preventing pressure sores in immobile patients?
Answer: Reposition the patient frequently
Pressure sores, also known as decubitus ulcers, develop when sustained pressure on the skin restricts blood flow, leading to tissue damage. Frequent repositioning redistributes pressure, allowing blood flow to return to vulnerable areas and preventing prolonged ischemia. This simple yet critical intervention is the most effective primary strategy for preventing pressure sore formation in immobile patients.