OTA Adaptive Equipment 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A client with rheumatoid arthritis should be advised to use which utensil handle modification to protect joints during meals?
- Narrow, standard handle
- Built-up, lightweight handle with large diameter (Correct answer)
- Weighted handle to reduce tremor
- Right-angle handle
Correct answer: Built-up, lightweight handle with large diameter
A large-diameter, lightweight handle reduces pinch force and stress on inflamed MCP and IP joints.
Question 2: When fitting a client for a standard rolling walker, the handle height should be set so that the client's elbows are flexed approximately:
- 0–5 degrees
- 15–20 degrees (Correct answer)
- 45 degrees
- 90 degrees
Correct answer: 15–20 degrees
Approximately 15–20 degrees of elbow flexion at the walker handle allows efficient weight bearing through the upper extremities.
Question 3: Which bath equipment allows a client with lower extremity weakness to bathe safely without stepping over a tub wall?
- Tub transfer bench (Correct answer)
- Shower chair inside the tub
- Grab bar on the faucet wall
- Non-slip bath mat
Correct answer: Tub transfer bench
A tub transfer bench spans from outside to inside the tub, eliminating the need to step over the tub wall.
Question 4: A pediatric client with cerebral palsy requires trunk support during feeding. Which seating adaptation is MOST appropriate?
- Removable headrest
- Lateral trunk supports with pelvic belt (Correct answer)
- Footrest elevation
- Prone stander
Correct answer: Lateral trunk supports with pelvic belt
Lateral trunk supports combined with a pelvic belt provide midline alignment, enabling stable, safe feeding posture.
Question 5: A client who is blind needs to measure ingredients independently. The BEST adaptive strategy is:
- Have a caregiver measure for the client
- Use talking measuring cups/spoons or tactile markings (Correct answer)
- Estimate by feel
- Reduce recipe to single-ingredient cooking
Correct answer: Use talking measuring cups/spoons or tactile markings
Talking or tactilely marked measuring tools provide accurate, independent measurement without relying on vision.
Question 6: Which adaptive device is recommended to help a client with one functional upper extremity stabilize food while cutting?
- Rocker knife
- Dycem cutting board with stainless steel spikes (Correct answer)
- Universal cuff with knife
- Loop scissors
Correct answer: Dycem cutting board with stainless steel spikes
A spike board holds food in place on the cutting board so it can be cut safely with one hand.
Question 7: An OTA is recommending a wheelchair cushion for a client at HIGH risk for pressure injuries. Which cushion type is MOST appropriate?
- Foam cushion
- Air flotation cushion (Correct answer)
- Gel cushion
- Contoured foam cushion
Correct answer: Air flotation cushion
Air flotation cushions provide the highest level of pressure redistribution, making them the preferred choice for high-risk clients.
OTA Adaptive Equipment 4
A client with rheumatoid arthritis should be advised to use which utensil handle modification to protect joints during meals?