Tools & Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real FCE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Tools & Techniques flashcards as text
A PILE (Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation) test stops when the examinee reaches what endpoint?
Answer: Symptom limitation, 85% age-predicted maximum heart rate, or 55% of body weight
PILE testing uses three stopping criteria: self-reported symptom limitation, cardiovascular endpoint (85% HRmax), or 55% body weight safety cap.
Which tool provides the MOST direct measure of aerobic work capacity during an FCE for a worker whose job requires sustained moderate-intensity physical exertion?
Answer: Six-minute walk test with Borg RPE monitoring
The six-minute walk test combined with Borg RPE reflects real-world aerobic endurance and is clinically validated for occupational populations.
In FCE documentation, 'MET level achieved' refers to:
Answer: Metabolic equivalent of task — a standardized unit expressing exercise intensity relative to resting metabolism
One MET equals resting oxygen consumption (~3.5 mL O2/kg/min); MET levels classify physical work demands for job matching.
When using the Purdue Pegboard during an FCE, the evaluator records which performance metric?
Answer: Number of pegs placed in 30 seconds for each hand and bimanually
Purdue Pegboard scoring counts the number of pegs placed within 30-second timed trials for the right hand, left hand, both hands, and an assembly task.
An FCE evaluator observes that an examinee's self-reported pain (8/10) is inconsistent with their observed functional performance. Which documentation approach is MOST appropriate?
Answer: Describe specific behavioral observations objectively and note the discrepancy without labeling the examinee as malingering
FCE reports must document observable behaviors objectively; labeling intent (malingering) exceeds evaluator scope without psychological evaluation.
The Blankenship FCE System uses a 'coefficient of variation' to assess grip consistency. A CV greater than what threshold suggests submaximal effort?
Answer: 15%
A CV greater than 15% across grip trials is the widely accepted threshold indicating inconsistent (likely submaximal) effort in the Blankenship and similar protocols.
Which functional lifting classification corresponds to a worker who can occasionally lift up to 100 pounds according to the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT)?
Answer: Very heavy work
DOT defines 'Very Heavy Work' as lifting objects over 100 lbs occasionally, with frequent lifting of 50 lbs or more.