Ch. 25 Ergonomics Quiz

The goal of ergonomics is to help people

• adapt the human body to the work environment.

• increase their range of twisting and reaching motions.

• establish sequences of repetitive motions to reduce work strain.

• stay healthy while performing their work more effectively.

All of the following factors contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) except

• posture.

• repetition.

• twisting.

• force.

The ideal working position for a dental assistant is

• a neutral position sitting upright with body weight evenly distributed.

• standing chairside.

• seated, leaning forward supported by the stool arm.

• knees and feet together.

Frequent reaching, twisting, and working with the arms in awkward positions can cause all of the following except

• sprains.

• strains.

• stress.

• shoulder problems.

Repetitive motion, overflexion, and overextension of the wrist can significantly increase the risk for

• cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs).

• breaking the bone.

• arthritis.

• bursitis.

The first symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is often a(n)

• decreased ability to squeeze an object.

• painful tingling in one or both hands that occurs at night.

• painful swelling of joints in the fingers.

• inability to button clothing.

To relieve stress on the back, neck, and shoulders, a dental assistant can

• periodically get up and walk around.

• perform a full back release and head rotations.

• lie down in the dental chair.

• do isometric muscle exercises.

To prevent eyestrain, the dental assistant should

• always wear safety glasses.

• look up frequently and focus on a point in the distance for about 20 seconds.

• focus on the dentist’s hands and patient’s mouth.

• never look at the curing light.

The use of ambidextrous gloves can place excessive tension on the

• median nerve.

• carpal bones.

• synovial sheath.

• thenar eminence.

The number of carpal bones surrounding the carpal tunnel is

• three.

• six.

• eight.

• twelve.