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National Physical Therapist Assistant Flashcards

7 cards from real NPTE-PTA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 National Physical Therapist Assistant flashcards as text

  1. A PTA is performing iontophoresis with dexamethasone to treat plantar fasciitis. The dexamethasone should be placed under which electrode?

    Answer: Cathode (negative)

    Dexamethasone carries a negative charge and must be placed under the cathode (negative electrode) to be driven into tissue by iontophoresis.

  2. A patient with C5 ASIA A tetraplegia is being trained in functional activities. Which task is WITHIN the expected functional capacity for this level?

    Answer: Feeding using mobile arm supports

    C5 ASIA A patients retain shoulder flexion and elbow flexion (biceps), allowing feeding with adaptive equipment such as mobile arm supports.

  3. When applying a hot pack to a patient's lumbar region, the PTA places 6 layers of toweling. After 5 minutes, the patient reports the heat feels very comfortable. What should the PTA do?

    Answer: Continue treatment and reassess at 10 minutes

    A comfortable sensation with appropriate insulation after 5 minutes is expected; the PTA should continue and reassess the skin at regular intervals.

  4. A patient is ambulating with Lofstrand (forearm) crutches. Elbow flexion during stance should be approximately:

    Answer: 15-30 degrees

    Elbow flexion of 15-30 degrees during stance with forearm crutches allows optimal weight transfer and shock absorption through the upper extremity.

  5. A PTA is treating a patient with rheumatoid arthritis of the hands. Which exercise principle is MOST important to protect joint integrity?

    Answer: Use light resistance and avoid positions that stress joint surfaces

    Joint protection during RA hand exercise requires light resistance and avoiding positions (such as ulnar deviation under load) that stress already compromised joint surfaces.

  6. During the swing phase of gait, which muscle group is PRIMARILY responsible for foot clearance?

    Answer: Ankle dorsiflexors

    Ankle dorsiflexors (primarily tibialis anterior) contract during swing phase to lift the foot and ensure clearance of the ground.

  7. A patient with a Stage II pressure injury over the right ischial tuberosity is being treated. The PTA should recommend which seating surface modification?

    Answer: Air-cell cushion to distribute pressure evenly

    An air-cell or alternating pressure cushion distributes pressure evenly and reduces peak pressure at bony prominences, which is preferred for Stage II injuries.