PTA Law Exam Practice
Jurisprudence
- 1.
A patient in a rehabilitation hospital confides to her therapist that she has been physically abused by her husband in the past and is concerned about returning home following discharge. The most appropriate therapist action is to:
- A.
Call adult protective services.
- B.
Contact the patient’s case manager.
- C.
Ask the patient to leave her husband.
- D.
4. Contact the patient’s spouse.
Correct Answer
A. Call adult protective services.Explanation
In this scenario, the patient confides in the therapist about being physically abused by her husband. The therapist's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient. By calling adult protective services, the therapist can involve the appropriate authorities who are trained to handle cases of abuse and protect the patient from further harm. Contacting the patient's case manager may not provide immediate intervention, and asking the patient to leave her husband may not be safe or feasible without proper support. Contacting the patient's spouse may potentially put the patient at risk. Therefore, calling adult protective services is the most appropriate action to ensure the patient's safety.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A therapist provides an in-service to the rehabilitation department on the Americans with Disabilities Act. Which of the following individuals would not be covered under the Act?
- A.
A 28-year-old with a documented learning disability.
- B.
A 46 year old with severe mental retardation.
- C.
A 14 year old that is blind
- D.
A 36 year old homosexual
Correct Answer
D. A 36 year old homosexualExplanation
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination based on disability, but it does not specifically include sexual orientation as a protected category. Therefore, a 36-year-old homosexual individual would not be covered under the Act. The Act primarily focuses on providing equal opportunities and protections for individuals with physical or mental disabilities.Rate this question:
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- 3.
3. A physician refers a patient rehabilitating from an intertrochanteric fracture to physical therapy. On the referral form the physician specifies the use of continuous ultrasound at 2.4 W/cm2 over the fracture site. The most appropriate therapist action is to:
- A.
Treat the patient as indicated on the referral form.
- B.
Request that the patient obtain a new referral from the physician.
- C.
Use another more acceptable modality.
- D.
Contact the referring physician.
Correct Answer
D. Contact the referring pHysician.Explanation
The most appropriate therapist action is to contact the referring physician. This is because the physician specified the use of continuous ultrasound at 2.4 W/cm2 over the fracture site, which is considered a high intensity and potentially harmful dose. It is important for the therapist to clarify and confirm the intended treatment plan with the physician to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.Rate this question:
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- 4.
4. As part of a total quality management program, a physical therapy department decides to collect patient satisfaction data. The most appropriate initial action is to:
- A.
Identify appropriate statistical techniques to analyze the data.
- B.
Design a questionnaire for therapists
- C.
Design a patient satisfaction survey.
- D.
Modify patient care standards based on the collected data.
Correct Answer
C. Design a patient satisfaction survey.Explanation
The most appropriate initial action for a physical therapy department as part of a total quality management program is to design a patient satisfaction survey. This is because collecting patient satisfaction data is the first step in understanding the level of satisfaction among patients. Designing a survey will allow the department to gather specific information about patients' experiences and identify areas for improvement. Once the survey is designed and data is collected, appropriate statistical techniques can be used to analyze the data and make informed decisions about modifying patient care standards if necessary.Rate this question:
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- 5.
5. A therapist treats a 26-year-old male with complete C6 tetraplegia. During treatment the patient makes a culturally insensitive remark that the therapist feels is offensive. The most appropriate therapist action is to:
- A.
Document the incident in the medical record.
- B.
Transfer the patient to another therapist’s schedule.
- C.
Discharge the patient from physical therapy.
- D.
Inform the patient that the remark was offensive and continue with treatment
Correct Answer
D. Inform the patient that the remark was offensive and continue with treatmentExplanation
The most appropriate therapist action is to inform the patient that the remark was offensive and continue with treatment. This allows the therapist to address the issue directly with the patient and educate them about the impact of their remark. It also provides an opportunity for the therapist to establish boundaries and promote cultural sensitivity in the therapeutic relationship. Discharging the patient or transferring them to another therapist's schedule may not address the underlying issue and may hinder the patient's progress in therapy. Documenting the incident in the medical record is important for documentation purposes, but it should not be the only action taken.Rate this question:
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- 6.
6. An employee with a disclosed disability informs her employer that she is unable to perform an essential function of her job unless her workstation is modified. Which of the following would provide the employer with a legitimate reason for not granting the employee’s request?
- A.
The accommodation would cost hundreds of dollars.
- B.
The accommodation would require an expansion of the employee’s present workstation.
- C.
The accommodation would fundamentally alter the operation of the business.
- D.
The accommodation would not address the needs of other employees.
Correct Answer
C. The accommodation would fundamentally alter the operation of the business.Explanation
The employer would have a legitimate reason for not granting the employee's request if the accommodation would fundamentally alter the operation of the business. This means that making the requested modification to the employee's workstation would result in significant changes to the way the business operates, potentially affecting other employees or the overall efficiency of the company. In such cases, the employer may argue that the accommodation is not reasonable or feasible.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A group of health care professionals participate in a family conference for a patient with a spinal cord injury. During the conference one of the participants summarizes the patient’s progress with bathing and dressing activities. This type of information is typically conveyed by a/an:
- A.
Nurse.
- B.
2. Physical therapist.
- C.
Occupational therapist.
- D.
Case manager.
Correct Answer
C. Occupational therapist.Explanation
During a family conference for a patient with a spinal cord injury, the participant who summarizes the patient's progress with bathing and dressing activities is typically an occupational therapist. Occupational therapists specialize in helping patients regain their independence in daily activities such as bathing and dressing. They assess the patient's abilities and provide interventions to improve their functional skills and promote independence in self-care tasks. Therefore, it is the role of an occupational therapist to convey this type of information during a family conference.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A therapist is treating a patient status post left knee replacement with goals of general conditioning and independence for household mobility. Which component of the patient’s treatment program would be the most appropriate to delegate to a physical therapy aide?
- A.
Stair training
- B.
Progressive gait training with a straight cane
- C.
Patient education regarding the surgical procedure
- D.
Ambulation with a walker for endurance
Correct Answer
D. Ambulation with a walker for enduranceExplanation
The most appropriate component to delegate to a physical therapy aide would be ambulation with a walker for endurance. This task can be safely performed by a physical therapy aide under the supervision of a therapist. It does not require specialized knowledge or skills and can be easily taught to the aide. Stair training and progressive gait training with a straight cane are more complex tasks that require the expertise of a therapist. Patient education regarding the surgical procedure also requires the knowledge and expertise of a therapist.Rate this question:
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- 9.
There are many guidelines that are useful for clinicians attempting to avoid unnecessary litigation. Which of the following would be considered the most essential?
- A.
Conduct a thorough initial examination.
- B.
Instruct patients carefully in all exercise activities.
- C.
Keep the referring physician informed.
- D.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation.
Correct Answer
D. Maintain accurate and timely documentation.Explanation
Maintaining accurate and timely documentation is considered the most essential guideline for clinicians attempting to avoid unnecessary litigation. This is because proper documentation provides a clear record of the patient's condition, treatment, and progress, which can be crucial in case of any legal disputes. It helps in demonstrating that the clinician followed standard protocols, provided appropriate care, and communicated effectively with the patient and other healthcare providers. Accurate and timely documentation also ensures continuity of care and facilitates effective communication among the healthcare team.Rate this question:
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- 10.
An attorney contacts you by phone and requests specific information on a patient he claims to represent. Questions asked include the extent of the patient’s disability and her willingness to return to work. The most appropriate response would be to:
- A.
Answer the questions asked by the attorney.
- B.
Refer the attorney to the supervising physical therapist.
- C.
Tell the attorney not to bother you at work.
- D.
Instruct the attorney to complete the necessary paperwork and a copy of the patient’s physical therapy records will be sent.
Correct Answer
B. Refer the attorney to the supervising pHysical therapist.Explanation
Referring the attorney to the supervising physical therapist is the most appropriate response because as a therapist, it is important to maintain patient confidentiality and not disclose any information without proper authorization. The supervising physical therapist is responsible for handling such requests and ensuring that patient privacy is protected.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A complete medical history should be conducted on all patients prior to initiating treatment. Questions asked during the patient history should not lead the patient. Which of the following questions would not be considered leading?
- A.
Does this increase your pain?
- B.
Does this alter your pain in any way?
- C.
Does your pair increase at night?
- D.
Does your pain decrease with activity?
Correct Answer
B. Does this alter your pain in any way?Explanation
The question "Does this alter your pain in any way?" would not be considered leading because it does not suggest or imply a specific answer. It allows the patient to provide their own response without any influence or bias from the questioner. The other questions, on the other hand, contain specific suggestions or assumptions about the patient's pain, potentially leading them to answer in a certain way.Rate this question:
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- 12.
S.O.A.P. notes are a common form of documentation in a variety of health care settings. Which of the following would not be found in the objective section of a S.O.A.P. note?
- A.
Measurement of pertinent changes in mental status.
- B.
Description of present treatment.
- C.
Vital sign measurements.
- D.
Short and long term goals.
Correct Answer
D. Short and long term goals.Explanation
In a S.O.A.P. note, the objective section typically includes measurable and observable information about the patient's condition. This may include vital sign measurements, measurement of pertinent changes in mental status, and description of present treatment. Short and long term goals, on the other hand, are usually documented in the assessment or plan sections of the note, as they are subjective and future-oriented rather than objective observations.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A male therapist prepares to treat a female patient using a soft tissue massage technique. The therapist would like to ensure that the patient does not misinterpret the purpose of the treatment technique. The most appropriate action is to:
- A.
Transfer the patient to another therapist’s schedule.
- B.
Request a female staff member to be present during treatment.
- C.
Select another less invasive technique.
- D.
Discharge the patient from physical therapy.
Correct Answer
B. Request a female staff member to be present during treatment.Explanation
To ensure that the patient does not misinterpret the purpose of the treatment technique, the therapist should request a female staff member to be present during treatment. This action helps to create a safe and comfortable environment for the patient, as having another female present can help alleviate any concerns or misunderstandings about the therapist's intentions. It also promotes professionalism and ethical practice by ensuring that appropriate boundaries are maintained during the treatment process.Rate this question:
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- 14.
14. A therapist treating a patient overhears two of his colleagues discussing another patient’s case in the charting area. The therapist is concerned that his patient may overhear the same conversation. The most appropriate action is to:
- A.
Discuss the situation with the director of rehabilitation.
- B.
Confront the therapist and ask them if their behavior is professional
- C.
move the patient away from the charting area.
- D.
Inform the therapists that their conversation may be audible to patients.
Correct Answer
D. Inform the therapists that their conversation may be audible to patients.Explanation
The most appropriate action in this situation is to inform the therapists that their conversation may be audible to patients. This approach addresses the therapist's concern about the patient potentially overhearing the conversation without causing conflict or confrontation. By bringing this to the attention of the therapists, they can be made aware of the situation and take steps to ensure patient confidentiality and privacy. Discussing the situation with the director of rehabilitation or confronting the therapist directly may not be necessary or effective in resolving the issue.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A patient nears discharge from a rehabilitation hospital after completing three months of therapy. The patient has made significant progress in his rehabilitation, however expresses concern that his previous employer may not want him to return to work due to his injury. The most appropriate action is to:
- A.
Explain to the patient that to return to work after a serious injury is very difficult.
- B.
Inform the patient of his rights according to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- C.
Request that the patient consider vocational retraining.
- D.
Refer the patient to a psychologist to assist with the transition back to work.
Correct Answer
B. Inform the patient of his rights according to the Americans with Disabilities Act.Explanation
The most appropriate action is to inform the patient of his rights according to the Americans with Disabilities Act. This is the best course of action because the patient's concerns about returning to work after his injury are valid and need to be addressed. The Americans with Disabilities Act provides protections and accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including those who have experienced a serious injury. By informing the patient of his rights, he can be empowered to advocate for himself and ensure that his employer follows the appropriate guidelines for accommodating his needs.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A 32-year-old male of Portuguese descent is referred to physical therapy for instruction in a home exercise program. The physician referral indicates the patient is approved for one visit. What is the likelihood the patient will comprehend the home exercise program in the allotted time?
- A.
The patient will require external assistance as the use of an interpreter to comprehend the home exercise program.
- B.
The patient will comprehend the home exercise program.
- C.
The patient will not be able to comprehend the home exercise program.
- D.
The therapist can not make a prediction based on the supplied information.
Correct Answer
D. The therapist can not make a prediction based on the supplied information.Explanation
The given information does not provide any details about the patient's language proficiency or ability to understand instructions. Without this information, the therapist cannot predict whether the patient will be able to comprehend the home exercise program in the allotted time.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A physical therapist and a physical therapist assistant are employed in a skilled nursing facility. Which of the following activities would be appropriate for the physical therapist assistant?
- A.
Fitting of an assistive device.
- B.
Development of a plan of care.
- C.
Reexamination of a patient.
- D.
Establishment of a discharge plan.
Correct Answer
A. Fitting of an assistive device.Explanation
The physical therapist assistant would be appropriate for fitting an assistive device because this task falls within their scope of practice and does not require the higher level of expertise and training that a physical therapist would have. The development of a plan of care, reexamination of a patient, and establishment of a discharge plan would typically be responsibilities of the physical therapist.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A physical therapist assistant is growing more and more disenchanted with her current job because she is responsible for an unfair proportion of the current patient load. An appropriate response to this situation would be:
- A.
Explain your present situation to the board of directors.
- B.
Confront other staff members and inform them that you are being treated unfairly.
- C.
Communicate directly with the supervising therapist and relay your concerns.
- D.
Refrain from addressing the topic since you will be labeled as a troublemaker.
Correct Answer
C. Communicate directly with the supervising therapist and relay your concerns.Explanation
The best course of action in this situation would be to communicate directly with the supervising therapist and relay your concerns. By addressing the issue with the person in charge, you can express your dissatisfaction and discuss possible solutions or adjustments to the patient load. This approach allows for open and honest communication, which can lead to a resolution and potential improvement in the situation. Confronting other staff members or refraining from addressing the issue may not effectively address the problem or lead to a positive outcome.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A patient eight weeks status post right total hip replacement loses his balance and falls to the ground. The patient is visibly shaken by the fall, but insists that he is uninjured. The therapist examines the right hip and although active motion elicits pain, all other findings are inconclusive. The therapist should:
- A.
Continue with the current treatment so the patient does not focus on the incident.
- B.
Notify the supervising therapist.
- C.
Contact the director of rehabilitation.
- D.
Document the incident and gradually resume prior treatment.
Correct Answer
B. Notify the supervising therapist.Explanation
The therapist should notify the supervising therapist because the patient experienced a fall after a total hip replacement, which could indicate a potential complication or issue with the surgery. Although the patient insists they are uninjured, the therapist should not dismiss the incident and should inform the supervising therapist to ensure appropriate action is taken to assess and address any potential problems.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Health maintenance organizations have been more successful than the majority of private health insurance companies in controlling escalating medical costs. The primary method used by health maintenance organizations to contain medical costs is:
- A.
Increasing premiums to discourage the unnecessary use of health care.
- B.
Restricting the duration of physical therapy services.
- C.
Limiting services to specific health care providers.
- D.
Having the providers of care share in some of the financial risk.
Correct Answer
D. Having the providers of care share in some of the financial risk.Explanation
Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) have been more successful in controlling escalating medical costs compared to private health insurance companies. The primary method used by HMOs to achieve this is by having the providers of care share in some of the financial risk. This means that healthcare providers are incentivized to provide cost-effective and efficient care, as they bear a portion of the financial responsibility. By doing so, HMOs encourage the providers to make decisions that are in the best interest of both the patient and the organization, leading to better cost control and overall management of healthcare expenses.Rate this question:
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- 21.
In what section of a S.O.A.P. note would the following entry belong? Patient is not functional in activities of daily living due to lower extremity muscle weakness. Wife is unable to care for spouse at present level of functioning.
- A.
Subjective
- B.
Objective
- C.
Assessment
- D.
Plan
Correct Answer
C. AssessmentExplanation
The given entry describes the current assessment of the patient's functional abilities and the caregiver's ability to provide care. It provides information about the patient's lower extremity muscle weakness and the impact it has on their activities of daily living. This information is important for evaluating the patient's overall condition and determining the appropriate plan of action for their care. Therefore, this entry belongs in the assessment section of the S.O.A.P. note.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A health care provider negotiates with an insurance company to provide health care services. As part of the agreement, the insurance company agrees to pay the health care provider a predetermined amount for each member in the plan on an annual basis. This type of arrangement is best termed:
- A.
Capitation
- B.
Fee for service
- C.
Case pricing
- D.
Negotiated compensation
Correct Answer
A. CapitationExplanation
In this scenario, the health care provider and insurance company have agreed on a predetermined amount of payment for each member in the plan on an annual basis. This type of arrangement is known as capitation. Capitation involves the provider receiving a fixed amount of money per patient, regardless of the actual services provided. It incentivizes the provider to deliver cost-effective care and manage the health of the population efficiently.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A patient ambulating with crutches trips over an object on the floor and falls to the round. The patient appears to be uninjured, however complains of diffuse pain in the involved knee. The most formal mechanism to document the patient’s fall is to:
- A.
Send a memo to the director or rehabilitation.
- B.
Write a letter to the patient’s insurance company.
- C.
Complete an incident report.
- D.
Dictate a letter to the referring physician.
Correct Answer
C. Complete an incident report.Explanation
The most formal mechanism to document the patient's fall is to complete an incident report. This is because an incident report is a formal document that provides a detailed account of the incident, including the date, time, location, and description of what happened. It is important to document the incident in order to ensure that proper follow-up and investigation can take place, and to protect both the patient and the healthcare facility legally. Sending a memo to the director or rehabilitation, writing a letter to the patient's insurance company, or dictating a letter to the referring physician may not provide the same level of detail and formal documentation as an incident report.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The parents of a patient with a C4 spinal cord injury request projected outcome information on their 18-year-old son. The most appropriate health care professional to answer the parents’ question is the:
- A.
Primary nurse
- B.
Physiatrist
- C.
Case manager
- D.
Social worker
Correct Answer
B. pHysiatristExplanation
The most appropriate healthcare professional to answer the parents' question is the physiatrist. A physiatrist specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation, which includes the treatment and management of spinal cord injuries. They have the expertise and knowledge to provide accurate and comprehensive information regarding the projected outcome of the patient's condition. They can assess the patient's medical history, current condition, and potential for recovery to give the parents a realistic understanding of what to expect in terms of their son's prognosis.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Therapists are often faced with ethical issues in their daily clinical practice. Which of the following would be the most appropriate initial step when faced with an ethical dilemma?
- A.
Determine an action plan
- B.
Seek external support
- C.
Gather relevant information
- D.
Complete the action plan.
Correct Answer
C. Gather relevant informationExplanation
When faced with an ethical dilemma, gathering relevant information would be the most appropriate initial step for therapists. This is because having all the necessary information about the situation will help them make a well-informed decision. By gathering relevant information, therapists can understand the context, identify the stakeholders involved, and consider any ethical guidelines or principles that may apply. This step allows therapists to have a comprehensive understanding of the situation before proceeding with determining an action plan or seeking external support.Rate this question:
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- 26.
A risk management committee identifies several examples of physical therapy malpractice. Which of the following would not be considered a potentially negligent act?
- A.
Failure to follow a physician’s order
- B.
Application of faulty equipment
- C.
Sexual misconduct
- D.
Failure to achieve an established long-term goal.
Correct Answer
D. Failure to achieve an established long-term goal.Explanation
The failure to achieve an established long-term goal would not be considered a potentially negligent act because it does not involve any harm or injury to a patient. Negligence in physical therapy malpractice typically refers to actions or omissions that cause harm or injury to a patient. In this case, the other options - failure to follow a physician's order, application of faulty equipment, and sexual misconduct - all have the potential to cause harm or injury to a patient and would be considered potentially negligent acts.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A physical therapist is employed by a home health agency and as a result routinely conducts patient visits without direct on-site supervision from a physical therapist. Which guideline is most appropriate when determining the frequency of supervisory visits?
- A.
Supervisory visits should take place when convenient for the physical therapist and the physical therapist assistant.
- B.
Supervisory visits should take place in accordance with patient need.
- C.
Supervisory visits should take place on a weekly basis.
- D.
Supervisory visits should take place at least once every third visit.
Correct Answer
B. Supervisory visits should take place in accordance with patient need.Explanation
The most appropriate guideline for determining the frequency of supervisory visits is to base it on the patient's need. Since the physical therapist is conducting patient visits without direct on-site supervision, it is important to ensure that the patient's needs are being met and that the therapist is providing appropriate care. By scheduling supervisory visits in accordance with patient need, the therapist can ensure that they are providing the necessary support and guidance to the patient and making any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A physical therapy department attempts to establish a quality assurance program. The first step in developing the program should be to:
- A.
Identify important aspects of patient care provided by the department.
- B.
Collect and analyze data for each established indicator.
- C.
Identify quality indicators that will allow the department to monitor selected aspects of patient care.
- D.
Determine a percentage of occurrences that will dictate a specified action.
Correct Answer
A. Identify important aspects of patient care provided by the department.Explanation
The first step in developing a quality assurance program for a physical therapy department should be to identify important aspects of patient care provided by the department. This step is crucial as it helps the department understand the key areas that need to be monitored and improved upon. By identifying these important aspects, the department can then proceed to collect and analyze data for each established indicator, identify quality indicators for monitoring patient care, and determine the necessary actions based on a specified percentage of occurrences. However, without first identifying the important aspects of patient care, the subsequent steps would be ineffective.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Policies are used to carry out effective and efficient management. Which statement describing policies is not accurate?
- A.
Policies should be written on topics such as dress code, promotions, and discipline.
- B.
Policies should be established on an oral basis and subjected to individual interpretation.
- C.
Policies should be reviewed on a regular basis and revised if indicated.
- D.
Policies should be assembled into a manual for quick and easy reference.
Correct Answer
B. Policies should be established on an oral basis and subjected to individual interpretation.Explanation
This statement is not accurate because policies should not be established on an oral basis and subjected to individual interpretation. Policies should be clearly written and communicated to ensure consistency and understanding among employees. Oral policies can lead to misunderstandings and inconsistencies in implementation.Rate this question:
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- 30.
An audit attempts to determine the quality of patient care through a review of patient records. All of the following are recommended to ensure that the results of an audit are accurate except:
- A.
A comparison of the actual practice’s level of care to the expected level of care.
- B.
Specific objectives of the audit are defined prior to the collection of data.
- C.
An audit should not exceed a sample size of 15 to 20 charts.
- D.
The study should include records over a six-month period to ensure a diverse sample.
Correct Answer
C. An audit should not exceed a sample size of 15 to 20 charts.Explanation
The given answer is the correct one because it states that an audit should not exceed a sample size of 15 to 20 charts. This is incorrect because a larger sample size provides a more representative and accurate picture of the quality of patient care. Therefore, it is recommended to include a larger number of patient records in the audit to ensure reliable results.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A manager is responsible for motivating staff members to take on the organization’s goals as their own. Useful guidelines for a successful manager include all of the following except:
- A.
Managing by results with emphasis on upward communication.
- B.
Maintaining morale with emphasis on productivity and revenue generated.
- C.
Negotiating and maintaining a mutual commitment to goals.
- D.
Using performance appraisals for setting future goals.
Correct Answer
B. Maintaining morale with empHasis on productivity and revenue generated.Explanation
A successful manager should focus on maintaining morale among staff members, but the emphasis should not solely be on productivity and revenue generated. While productivity and revenue are important, it is equally important to consider other factors such as employee satisfaction, work-life balance, and personal growth. A manager should strive to create a positive work environment where employees feel motivated and engaged, which in turn can lead to increased productivity and revenue.Rate this question:
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- 32.
A therapist is employed at a physician owned physical therapy clinic that charges for treatment by the modality. One of the physicians who is an owner of the practice requests that all of his patients receive a minimum of heat, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation during each treatment session. The therapist feels that the modalities are of little clinical benefit with many of the patients. The most immediate response would be to:
- A.
Ignore the physician’s request and treat each patient as you feel is indicated.
- B.
Discuss the situation with the supervising physical therapist.
- C.
Report the physician’s conduct to the American Medical Association.
- D.
Inform the physician he is abusing the health care system.
Correct Answer
B. Discuss the situation with the supervising pHysical therapist.Explanation
The therapist should discuss the situation with the supervising physical therapist because they are facing a conflict between the physician's request and their professional judgment. By discussing the situation with the supervising physical therapist, the therapist can seek guidance and advice on how to handle the situation professionally and ethically. This approach allows for open communication and collaboration within the clinic to address the issue effectively. Reporting the physician's conduct to the American Medical Association or accusing the physician of abusing the healthcare system may not be the most immediate or appropriate response in this situation.Rate this question:
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- 33.
A therapist employed in an outpatient physical therapy clinic treats a patient diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome. During the treatment session the patient confides to the therapist that he has recently tested HIV positive. Which of the following situations would represent an unacceptable breach of patient confidentiality?
- A.
Disclosing confidential information when a patient is incompetent or incapacitated.
- B.
Disclosing confidential information to protect an unknowing third party.
- C.
Disclosing confidential information to a health care professional not involved in a patient’s care.
- D.
Disclosing confidential information in an emergency.
Correct Answer
C. Disclosing confidential information to a health care professional not involved in a patient’s care.Explanation
Disclosing confidential information to a health care professional not involved in a patient's care would represent an unacceptable breach of patient confidentiality. This is because patient confidentiality should only be breached when it is necessary to protect the patient's health or safety, or the health or safety of others directly involved in the patient's care. Disclosing confidential information to a health care professional not involved in the patient's care does not meet these criteria and would be a violation of the patient's privacy rights.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A therapist working on an oncology unit notices that a patient has been extremely depressed since beginning radiation treatment. When treating the patient, the therapist should:
- A.
Provide additional information on radiation treatment.
- B.
Accept the patient’s present mood.
- C.
Avoid activities that require prolonged verbal interaction.
- D.
Explain to the patient that his prognosis is good.
Correct Answer
B. Accept the patient’s present mood.Explanation
The therapist should accept the patient's present mood because depression is a common emotional response to receiving radiation treatment for cancer. It is important for the therapist to acknowledge and validate the patient's feelings without trying to change or fix them. By accepting the patient's mood, the therapist can create a supportive and empathetic environment, which can help the patient cope with their emotions more effectively.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which type of health insurance allows patients free choice of health care providers and utilizes deductibles and co-payments?
- A.
Fee for service plans
- B.
Health maintenance organizations
- C.
Preferred provider organizations
- D.
Exclusive provider organizations
Correct Answer
A. Fee for service plansExplanation
Fee for service plans allow patients free choice of health care providers and utilize deductibles and co-payments. In fee for service plans, patients have the flexibility to choose any health care provider they prefer, without being restricted to a network. They are required to pay a deductible amount before the insurance coverage kicks in, and also have to make co-payments for certain services. This type of health insurance plan provides more freedom and flexibility in choosing providers, but may also result in higher out-of-pocket costs for the patient.Rate this question:
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- 36.
A physical therapy department develops guidelines for clinical use of electrical stimulators. Which of the following would not be an appropriate guideline?
- A.
Do not apply or remove surface electrodes while current is applied.
- B.
Modify other parameters of stimulation after increasing stimulation amplitude.
- C.
Reduce the amplitude of stimulation before turning the power off.
- D.
Do not use battery-operated stimulators with a re-charger plugged in unless line leakage is less than 10uA.
Correct Answer
B. Modify other parameters of stimulation after increasing stimulation amplitude.Explanation
The other guidelines mentioned in the options are all appropriate for the clinical use of electrical stimulators. However, modifying other parameters of stimulation after increasing stimulation amplitude can lead to potential risks and complications. It is generally recommended to adjust the parameters before increasing the stimulation amplitude to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A physical therapist assistant modifies an existing plan of care after receiving verbal approval from the supervising physical therapist. The most formal mechanism to acknowledge the therapist’s approval is to:
- A.
Notify the director of rehabilitation.
- B.
Send a letter to the referring physician.
- C.
Contact the patient’s third party payer.
- D.
Document the supervising physical therapist’s approval in the medical record.
Correct Answer
D. Document the supervising pHysical therapist’s approval in the medical record.Explanation
The most formal mechanism to acknowledge the therapist's approval is to document the supervising physical therapist's approval in the medical record. This ensures that there is a clear record of the therapist's approval and can be used as evidence if needed. Notifying the director of rehabilitation, sending a letter to the referring physician, or contacting the patient's third party payer may also be necessary in certain situations, but they are not the most formal way to acknowledge the therapist's approval.Rate this question:
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- 38.
A therapist would be incorrect in placing which of the following entries in the assessment section of a S.O.A.P. note?
- A.
Patient should be independent with straight cane by discharge date.
- B.
Right lower extremity muscle strength is within normal limits.
- C.
Patient continues to make steady progress with upper extremity resistive exercises.
- D.
Strength-duration curves show radial nerve regeneration.
Correct Answer
B. Right lower extremity muscle strength is within normal limits.Explanation
The therapist would be incorrect in placing "Right lower extremity muscle strength is within normal limits" in the assessment section of a S.O.A.P. note because the assessment section typically includes objective information and measurable data about the patient's condition. The statement about muscle strength being within normal limits does not provide any specific information or data to support the assessment.Rate this question:
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- 39.
A physical therapist assistant observes a patient exercising. It becomes obvious that the patient is not challenged by the exercise routine and is receiving little benefit from physical therapy. The most appropriate action for the physical therapist assistant would be to:
- A.
Tell the patient he is no longer benefiting from physical therapy.
- B.
Remain silent since it is the physical therapists responsibility to modify the treatment plan.
- C.
Modify the patient’s program as necessary.
- D.
Consult with the supervising physical therapist and suggest treatment alternatives.
Correct Answer
D. Consult with the supervising pHysical therapist and suggest treatment alternatives.Explanation
The physical therapist assistant should consult with the supervising physical therapist and suggest treatment alternatives because they have observed that the patient is not being challenged by the current exercise routine and is not benefiting from physical therapy. By consulting with the supervising physical therapist, they can discuss the patient's progress and make necessary modifications to the treatment plan to ensure that the patient receives the appropriate level of challenge and benefit from physical therapy.Rate this question:
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- 40.
A therapist attempts to assess the Babinski reflex. To effectively elicit this reflex, the therapist should:
- A.
Stroke the lateral aspect of the foot beneath the lateral malleolus.
- B.
Stroke the anteromedial tibial surface.
- C.
Stroke the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot.
- D.
Firmly squeeze the calf.
Correct Answer
C. Stroke the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot.Explanation
To effectively elicit the Babinski reflex, the therapist should stroke the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot. The Babinski reflex is a neurological reflex that is normally present in infants and disappears as they grow older. It is characterized by the extension of the big toe and fanning of the other toes when the sole of the foot is stroked. By specifically stroking the lateral aspect of the sole of the foot, the therapist is stimulating the sensory receptors in that area, which triggers the reflex.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A therapist should record observed information on range of motion and functional ability in the ________ section of a S.O.A.O. note?
- A.
Subjective
- B.
Objective
- C.
Assessment
- D.
Plan
Correct Answer
B. ObjectiveExplanation
In a S.O.A.P. note, the objective section is where the therapist should record observed information on range of motion and functional ability. The objective section focuses on measurable and observable data, such as the therapist's observations and measurements during the session. This information helps to provide an accurate and objective assessment of the client's progress and functional abilities.Rate this question:
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- 42.
A physical therapist assistant completes daily documentation to the medical record. Which of the following documentation activities would be inappropriate for a physical therapist assistant?
- A.
A reaction to treatment
- B.
Patient compliance
- C.
Discharge summary
- D.
Treatment or services provided
Correct Answer
C. Discharge summaryExplanation
A physical therapist assistant is responsible for assisting the physical therapist in providing treatment and services to patients. They may document the patient's reaction to treatment, their compliance with the treatment plan, and the specific treatments or services provided. However, a discharge summary is typically completed by the physical therapist or another healthcare professional who has overseen the patient's entire course of treatment. It provides a comprehensive summary of the patient's condition, progress, and recommendations for further care after they are discharged from the therapy program. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for a physical therapist assistant to complete a discharge summary.Rate this question:
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- 43.
The practice of physical therapy in a given state is often defined according to the state physical therapy practice act. Which source of law is responsible for formalizing a practice act?
- A.
Constitutional law
- B.
Statutory law
- C.
Common law
- D.
Administrative law
Correct Answer
B. Statutory lawExplanation
Statutory law is responsible for formalizing a practice act in the field of physical therapy. Statutory law refers to laws that are enacted by a legislative body, such as a state legislature. In this case, the state legislature would pass a law known as the practice act, which outlines the rules and regulations for the practice of physical therapy in that state. This act would then become the legal framework that governs the practice of physical therapy and defines the scope of practice for physical therapists in that particular state.Rate this question:
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- 44.
A physical therapist assistant consistently falls behind with his documentation due to an excessive patient load. The assistant has addressed this issue on numerous occasions with the supervising physical therapist without any success. The most appropriate action is:
- A.
Discuss the situation with another physical therapist.
- B.
Ignore the situation and attempt to complete documentation in a timely fashion.
- C.
Seek new employment.
- D.
Discuss the situation with the director of rehabilitation.
Correct Answer
D. Discuss the situation with the director of rehabilitation.Explanation
The correct answer is to discuss the situation with the director of rehabilitation. This is the most appropriate action because the assistant has already tried addressing the issue with the supervising physical therapist without success. By discussing the situation with the director of rehabilitation, the assistant can escalate the issue and seek a resolution to the problem of falling behind with documentation. This may lead to finding a solution that can help manage the excessive patient load and improve the assistant's ability to complete documentation in a timely fashion.Rate this question:
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- 45.
A short-term goal for a patient status post CVA is to perform a stand pivot transfer from a bed to a wheelchair. The goal should be recorded in the _____ section of a S.O.A.P. note?
- A.
Subjective
- B.
Objective
- C.
Assessment
- D.
Plan
Correct Answer
D. PlanExplanation
In a S.O.A.P. note, the "plan" section is where the goals and interventions for the patient are recorded. This section outlines the specific actions that will be taken to help the patient achieve their desired outcomes. In this case, the goal of performing a stand pivot transfer from a bed to a wheelchair is a short-term goal for the patient, and therefore it should be recorded in the "plan" section of the S.O.A.P. note.Rate this question:
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- 46.
A therapist notices a student using improper guarding technique on a patient that appears to be unstable. The most immediate therapist action should be:
- A.
Discuss the situation with the student’s clinical instructor.
- B.
Leave the student an anonymous note describing proper guarding technique
- C.
Offer suggestions to improve the student’s technique
- D.
Ignore the situation since you are not the clinical instructor.
Correct Answer
C. Offer suggestions to improve the student’s techniqueExplanation
The therapist should offer suggestions to improve the student's technique because it is their responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient. By providing guidance and feedback, the therapist can help the student correct their improper guarding technique and prevent any potential harm to the patient. Discussing the situation with the student's clinical instructor or leaving an anonymous note may not address the issue immediately, and ignoring the situation would be neglecting their duty as a therapist.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Health care facilities utilize a variety of employees including physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapy aides. Which activity would be inappropriate for a physical therapy aide?
- A.
Assist patients in preparation for treatment.
- B.
Make daily entries in the patient’s medical record
- C.
Assist patients with exercise activities.
- D.
Perform treatment procedures as determined by the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.
Correct Answer
B. Make daily entries in the patient’s medical recordExplanation
A physical therapy aide would not be responsible for making daily entries in the patient's medical record. This task is typically performed by a medical secretary or a healthcare professional with specific training in medical record keeping. The role of a physical therapy aide is to assist patients in preparation for treatment, assist patients with exercise activities, and perform treatment procedures as directed by the physical therapist or physical therapist assistant.Rate this question:
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- 48.
A therapist instructs a patient that appears to be disinterested in a home exercise program. Which therapist action would be the most appropriate?
- A.
Allow the patient to select exercise activities.
- B.
Explain to the patient the importance of the home exercise program.
- C.
Explain to the patient the consequences of refusing treatment.
- D.
Discontinue the treatment session.
Correct Answer
B. Explain to the patient the importance of the home exercise program.Explanation
The most appropriate therapist action would be to explain to the patient the importance of the home exercise program. By doing so, the therapist can help the patient understand the benefits of the program and motivate them to participate. This approach allows the patient to make an informed decision and potentially increase their engagement in the home exercise program.Rate this question:
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- 49.
An effective manager should adhere to all of the following guidelines except:
- A.
Maintain a mutual commitment to goals.
- B.
Provide staff with the opportunity to develop professionally.
- C.
Allow participation in decision making.
- D.
Delegate undesirable tasks to subordinates.
Correct Answer
D. Delegate undesirable tasks to subordinates.Explanation
An effective manager should adhere to all of the following guidelines except delegating undesirable tasks to subordinates. This is because an effective manager should not pass on tasks that they themselves find undesirable or unpleasant to their subordinates. Instead, they should lead by example and be willing to take on any task that needs to be done, regardless of its desirability. This helps to build trust and respect among team members and promotes a positive work culture.Rate this question:
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- 50.
A physical therapist working on a team with a physical therapist assistant would be incorrect in asking an assistant to perform which of the following tasks?
- A.
Modify treatment plan or goals.
- B.
Apply and measure assistive or adaptive devices.
- C.
Identify changes in treatment outcome
- D.
Administer therapeutic modalities.
Correct Answer
A. Modify treatment plan or goals.Explanation
A physical therapist working on a team with a physical therapist assistant would be incorrect in asking an assistant to modify treatment plan or goals. This is because modifying treatment plans and goals requires advanced knowledge and expertise that only a licensed physical therapist possesses. The assistant's role is to assist the physical therapist in implementing the treatment plan, not to make changes to it.Rate this question:
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May 20, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Oct 13, 2013Quiz Created by
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