PCE Clinical Knowledge and Theory 3

Question 1

A patient recovering from a tibial shaft fracture develops compartment syndrome. Which finding is the EARLIEST clinical indicator?

Accepted Answer

Pain out of proportion to the injury

Answer

Pain disproportionate to the injury—especially pain with passive stretch of muscles in the compartment—is the earliest and most sensitive sign of acute compartment syndrome.

Question 2

The Ottawa Ankle Rules help determine whether radiography is needed. An X-ray is required if there is bone tenderness at the:

Accepted Answer

Posterior edge or tip of the lateral or medial malleolus

Answer

The Ottawa Ankle Rules specify tenderness at the posterior 6 cm or tip of either malleolus as an indication for ankle radiograph.

Question 3

Which cardiac condition is considered an absolute contraindication to aerobic exercise testing?

Accepted Answer

Recent myocardial infarction within 2 days

Answer

Acute myocardial infarction within the preceding 2 days is an absolute contraindication to exercise testing per ACSM guidelines.

Question 4

In the context of nerve conduction studies, a reduced amplitude with normal conduction velocity most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Axonal loss

Answer

Axonal loss reduces the number of conducting axons, decreasing amplitude, while demyelination primarily slows conduction velocity.

Question 5

Which specific test assesses the integrity of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)?

Accepted Answer

Posterior drawer test

Answer

The posterior drawer test applies a posterior force to the proximal tibia at 90° flexion; excessive posterior translation indicates PCL laxity.

(PCE) Physiotherapy Competency Exam Practice Test

(PCE) Physiotherapy Competency Exam Practice Test

PCE Clinical Knowledge and Theory 3