CMC Assistive Technology & Adaptive Devices 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A client with progressive multiple sclerosis reports that their powered mobility device performance worsens significantly on warm days. Which feature should the CMC prioritize when recommending a replacement device?
- Higher maximum speed rating
- Thermal management or cooling features for the electronics
- Increased battery capacity (Correct answer)
- Suspension system upgrades
Correct answer: Increased battery capacity
While heat affects MS symptoms, increased battery capacity ensures the power wheelchair maintains consistent performance through a full day without voltage drops that worsen with heat-related fatigue.
Question 2: According to ADA standards, what is the minimum required clear floor space for a forward approach to an accessible reach range control or operating mechanism?
- 24 inches by 36 inches
- 30 inches by 48 inches (Correct answer)
- 36 inches by 60 inches
- 32 inches by 48 inches
Correct answer: 30 inches by 48 inches
ADA Standards for Accessible Design require a minimum 30-inch by 48-inch clear floor space for a forward approach to reach range elements.
Question 3: A client who is deaf-blind requires an AAC system. Which output modality is specifically designed for individuals with this dual sensory impairment?
- Speech-generating device with loud speaker
- Refreshable Braille display (Correct answer)
- High-contrast visual symbols board
- Vibrating alert wristband
Correct answer: Refreshable Braille display
A refreshable Braille display converts digital text to tactile Braille output, making it accessible for individuals who are deaf-blind.
Question 4: Which seating intervention is specifically indicated to redistribute pressure away from bony prominences and reduce the risk of pressure injuries in a wheelchair user?
- Lateral trunk supports
- Contoured foam cushion with pressure-mapping optimization (Correct answer)
- Anterior pelvic tilt support
- Seat belt positioning system
Correct answer: Contoured foam cushion with pressure-mapping optimization
A contoured foam cushion, especially when fitted using pressure-mapping technology, redistributes interface pressure away from ischial tuberosities and coccyx to reduce pressure injury risk.
Question 5: A CMC is evaluating vehicle modifications for a client who drives from their power wheelchair. Which securement system is the current industry standard for wheelchair-occupied vehicle transport?
- Two-point tie-down with lap belt only
- Four-point strap tie-down with separate occupant restraint (Correct answer)
- Docking station with built-in occupant belt
- Rearward-facing wheelchair position with chest harness
Correct answer: Four-point strap tie-down with separate occupant restraint
The four-point strap tie-down system with a separate, vehicle-anchored occupant restraint (lap and shoulder belt) is the ANSI/RESNA standard for occupied wheelchair securement.
Question 6: A client with ALS in early stages presents for AT evaluation. Why is early intervention particularly critical for AAC planning in this population?
- ALS affects cognition, making learning new technology difficult later
- Early voice banking preserves natural speech characteristics before dysarthria progresses (Correct answer)
- Insurance coverage is only available early in the disease course
- AAC devices require surgical implantation that is safer early in the disease
Correct answer: Early voice banking preserves natural speech characteristics before dysarthria progresses
Voice banking during the early stages of ALS allows the client to record natural speech for use in speech-generating devices before dysarthria advances and voice quality deteriorates.
Question 7: Which type of adaptive switch is activated by detecting muscle movement or skin surface EMG signals, making it appropriate for clients with very limited but consistent muscle activity?
- Proximity switch
- Sip-and-puff switch
- Electromyography (EMG) switch (Correct answer)
- Piezoelectric switch
Correct answer: Electromyography (EMG) switch
An EMG switch detects electrical signals generated by even minimal muscle contractions, enabling clients with very restricted motor function to activate assistive technology.
CMC Assistive Technology & Adaptive Devices 3
A client with progressive multiple sclerosis reports that their powered mobility device performance worsens significantly on warm days.
Which feature should the CMC prioritize when recommending a replacement device?