A physical therapist assistant reviews a patient coverage form that lists the parameters used during a recent ultrasound treatment to the right anterior shoulder: 1.5 W/cm2, pulsed 20%, 1 MHz, 6 minutes. Assuming the objective of the ultrasound was to increase tissue temperature, which parameter would be the MOST critical for the physical therapist assistant to alter?

A physical therapist assistant discusses the plan of care for a 61-year-old male diagnosed with spinal stenosis with the referring physician. During the discussion the physician shows the physical therapist assistant a picture of the patient’s spine obtained through computed tomography. What color would vertebrae appear when using this imaging technique?

A physical therapist assistant discusses the use of a topical moisturizer with a patient to combat dryness and itching of the skin in the area of a healed burn. Which scenario would MOST likely require the use of a moisturizer for an indefinite period?

A patient diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis exhibits a forward stooped posture. As part of the patient’s established plan of care the physical therapist assistant implements a number of active exercises that promote improved posture. Which proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation pattern would be the MOST appropriate to achieve the established objective?

A physical therapist assistant instructs a patient diagnosed with C6 tetraplegia in functional activities. Which of the following activities would be LEAST appropriate?

A physical therapist assistant attempts to assess a patient’s relative risk for developing coronary artery disease. Which patient scenario would result in the patient being at the greatest risk?

A patient diagnosed with C5 tetraplegia receives physical therapy services in a rehabilitation hospital. The patient has made good progress in therapy and is scheduled for discharge in one week. During a treatment session, the patient informs the physical therapist assistant that one day in the future he will walk again. The MOST appropriate response is:

A physical therapist assistant attempts to assess the integrity of the vestibulocochlear nerve by administering the Rinne test on a patient with a suspected upper motor neuron lesion. After striking the tine of the tuning fork to begin vibration, which bony prominence should the physical therapist assistant utilize to position the stem of the tuning fork?

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital reviews the results of recent laboratory testing for one of his patients. A note in the medical record indicates that the patient was dehydrated at the time the blood sample was taken. Which finding would be MOST likely based on the patient’s hydration status?

A physical therapist assistant employed in an acute care hospital interviews a patient referred to physical therapy. During the discussion, the physical therapist assistant asks the patient if he feels dependent on coffee, tea or soft drinks. Which clinical scenario would MOST appropriately warrant this type of question?