PCE Clinical Knowledge and Theory 4

Question 1

A patient presents with wrist drop following a mid-humeral shaft fracture. Which nerve is most likely injured?

Accepted Answer

Radial nerve

Answer

The radial nerve winds around the humeral shaft in the spiral groove and is commonly injured with mid-shaft humeral fractures, causing wrist and finger extensor weakness.

Question 2

Which pulmonary function value is most useful in differentiating obstructive from restrictive lung disease?

Accepted Answer

FEV1/FVC ratio

Answer

A reduced FEV1/FVC ratio (<0.70) indicates obstruction (e.g., COPD), while restriction typically shows a reduced FVC with a normal or elevated ratio.

Question 3

The close-packed position of the glenohumeral joint is:

Accepted Answer

Full abduction with external rotation

Answer

Full abduction combined with external rotation places maximum tension on the glenohumeral ligaments and maximizes bony congruence, defining the close-packed position.

Question 4

According to the Gate Control Theory of pain, activation of which fiber type can inhibit pain transmission at the dorsal horn?

Accepted Answer

Aβ fibers

Answer

Gate Control Theory proposes that large-diameter Aβ fibers activate inhibitory interneurons in the dorsal horn, 'closing the gate' to nociceptive C and Aδ fiber signals.

Question 5

In a patient with C6 tetraplegia, which functional movement would you MOST expect to be preserved?

Accepted Answer

Wrist extension (tenodesis grasp)

Answer

C6 innervates wrist extensors (ECRL/ECRB), enabling tenodesis grasp where passive finger flexion occurs when the wrist extends.

(PCE) Physiotherapy Competency Exam Practice Test

(PCE) Physiotherapy Competency Exam Practice Test

PCE Clinical Knowledge and Theory 4