SMS Mobility and Propulsion 2

Question 1

Which power wheelchair drive configuration provides the tightest turning radius?

Accepted Answer

Mid-wheel drive

Answer

Mid-wheel drive power wheelchairs have the drive wheels under the user's center of gravity, enabling a very tight turning radius ideal for indoor navigation.

Question 2

A client with ALS who is losing upper extremity strength is being evaluated for power wheelchair access. Which access method should be considered as disease progresses?

Accepted Answer

Proportional mini joystick initially, with a plan for alternative access (head array, sip-and-puff) as function declines

Answer

As ALS progresses, access methods must evolve with the client's changing function, starting with the least restrictive option and planning ahead for alternative access as upper extremity function declines.

Question 3

A sip-and-puff controller for a power wheelchair uses which input modality?

Accepted Answer

Pneumatic pressure and vacuum created by sipping or puffing into a straw

Answer

Sip-and-puff controllers use pneumatic input — the user sips (inhales) or puffs (exhales) into a straw-like tube to generate commands for directional control.

Question 4

What is the primary advantage of a power assist add-on for manual wheelchairs compared to a standard power wheelchair?

Accepted Answer

Preserves manual propulsion skills and independence while reducing upper extremity strain

Answer

Power assist devices add motorized assistance to manual propulsion, reducing shoulder strain while preserving the user's active propulsion and maintaining a smaller, more maneuverable footprint than a full power chair.

Question 5

When assessing a client's ability to drive a power wheelchair, which environment should be tested FIRST?

Accepted Answer

A quiet, open indoor space

Answer

Initial power wheelchair driving assessment should begin in a quiet, open indoor space to allow the client to learn basic control before advancing to more complex environments.

SMS - Certified Seating and Mobility Specialist Practice Test

SMS - Certified Seating and Mobility Specialist Practice Test

SMS Mobility and Propulsion 2