Student Development Practice Questions v1

Front

During the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), a patient stops after 3 minutes due to fatigue but resumes walking after a 10-second rest. What should the PTA do?

Back

Allow the pause and continue timing.

Answer explanation

Rationale: Short rests are allowed in the 6MWT, but timing continues throughout.

Front

While testing the patellar reflex, the PTA notes a brisk response with repetitive contractions. The MOST appropriate documentation is:

Back

3+

Answer explanation

Rationale: A 3+ reflex is exaggerated but not sustained clonus. Repetitive but brief contractions classify as 3+.

Front

A patient reports shoulder pain when placing groceries on a high shelf. During the Hawkins–Kennedy test, the PTA notes pain but no marked limitation. During external rotation resistance testing, the patient demonstrates mild weakness without pain. What is the MOST likely interpretation?

Back

Subacromial impingement

Answer explanation

Rationale: Pain with Hawkins–Kennedy + painless slight weakness suggests impingement, not a major tear. A full tear would show significant weakness and often no pain during impingement tests.

Front

A PTA performs orthostatic vital sign testing. Supine BP is 136/78 with HR 72 bpm. After standing for 1 minute, BP is 110/70 with HR 86 bpm. The patient reports mild dizziness. What is the MOST appropriate action?

Back

Discontinue testing and return the patient to supine.

Answer explanation

Rationale: A systolic drop ≥20 mmHg with symptoms is symptomatic orthostatic hypotension → stop test and ensure patient safety.

Front

During gait training after a right CVA, a PTA observes that the patient’s left foot drags during swing and the hip excessively abducts to clear the foot. Which impairment is the MOST likely cause? Options: Hypertonicity of left hamstrings, Weakness of left quadriceps, Weakness of left dorsiflexors, Shortening of left iliopsoas

Back

Weakness of left dorsiflexors

Answer explanation

Rationale: Hip hiking or circumduction to clear the foot most often indicates foot drop from dorsiflexor weakness. Hamstring hypertonicity would affect terminal swing, not clearance.

Front

During a myotomal screen, the patient demonstrates normal strength in hip flexion, knee extension, and ankle dorsiflexion, but cannot perform great toe extension against resistance. Sensation and reflexes are normal. What is the MOST likely source of impairment?

Back

L5 radiculopathy

Answer explanation

Rationale: Isolated great toe extension weakness (extensor hallucis longus) is a classic sign of L5 involvement. Deep peroneal nerve palsy would also affect dorsiflexion.