PTA Critical Thinking 2

Question 1

A patient reports increased pain after yesterday's treatment session. What is the PTA's BEST first action?

Accepted Answer

Assess the patient and report findings to the supervising PT

Answer

The PTA must assess changes in patient status and communicate findings to the supervising PT before modifying or continuing care.

Question 2

During gait training, a patient suddenly becomes pale and diaphoretic. The PTA should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Have the patient sit or lie down and call for assistance immediately

Answer

Signs of hemodynamic instability require immediate cessation of activity and prompt action to ensure patient safety.

Question 3

A PTA notices a patient's ROM has plateaued for three consecutive weeks. The MOST appropriate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Communicate the plateau to the supervising PT for a plan of care review

Answer

A clinical plateau is a significant finding that requires the supervising PT to evaluate and potentially revise the plan of care.

Question 4

Which finding would MOST warrant immediate communication to the supervising PT?

Accepted Answer

New onset of chest pain during treatment

Answer

New onset chest pain during treatment is a red flag requiring immediate cessation of activity and urgent notification of the supervising PT.

Question 5

A patient states that the prescribed home exercise program feels 'too easy.' The BEST PTA response is to:

Accepted Answer

Inform the supervising PT and request a plan of care review

Answer

Exercise progression is a plan of care modification that requires the supervising PT's authorization; the PTA relays the patient's feedback.

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