A physical therapist assistant removes a hot pack from the lower extremity and sees a dark red appearance of the skin and mottling.  What is the MOST appropriate action for the assistant to take?  

If electrical stimulation is applied to decrease pain by stimulating nerve fibers that can “close or block the gate”,  which of the following frequency ranges would be BEST to use?

There are two case studies in the essay portion of the exam with multiple questions for each case study.  The case study will be repeated in each question.  You may NOT choose the same modality for each case study.   It is advised to read through both case studies and decide which modality you will you use before answering all of the questions.

CASE #1         A 33-year-old, male, insurance agent sprained his lower back while playing tennis 3 days ago.  He has complaints  of low back pain and stiffness.  He has spasms in the bilateral lumbar area and decreased trunk flexion range of motion.  He missed one day of work and is now working full-time but with complaints of increased pain at the end of the day.   His past medical history is unremarkable.   What are two other, appropriate modalities for this person?

CASE #1         A 33-year-old, male, insurance agent sprained his lower back while playing tennis 3 days ago.  He has complaints  of low back pain and stiffness.  He has spasms in the bilateral lumbar area and decreased trunk flexion range of motion.  He missed one day of work and is now working full-time but with complaints of increased pain at the end of the day.   His past medical history is unremarkable.    Write the O: section of a progress note for the modality you chose for this patient.

You will be giving home instructions to a patient in the use of an ace wrap to their sprained ankle. Which of the following education would be CORRECT to include in your instructions?

A PTA assesses a pressure injury on a nursing home resident that involves the full-thickness skin and the underlying muscles. What stage is the pressure injury?

Which of the following treatment applications will increase the effectiveness of phonoporesis?

What is the recommended temperature for a paraffin bath?

What electrical stimulation current involves crossing the pathways of two electrical currents of slightly different frequencies?