COTA OT Assistant Exam Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q11A client reports difficulties with joint swelling in the morning and stiffness that improves throughout the day. They are seeking advice from their OTA. What suggestion might the OTA provide to help alleviate these morning symptoms?
✓ Correct answer: B. Apply warm compresses in the morning
Applying warm compresses can help alleviate morning stiffness in individuals dealing with rheumatoid arthritis or similar conditions. Decreasing fluid intake is not related to reducing joint stiffness, while consuming high-sodium snacks before bed could exacerbate swelling.
Q12Which of the following is an INCORRECT movement pattern for shoulder flexion exercises aimed at improving reach and range of motion?
✓ Correct answer: B. Humerus positioned in 40 degrees of extension
Answer: Humerus positioned in 40 degrees of extension During shoulder flexion exercises, the correct position for improving reach and range is 0 to 180 degrees of flexion without extension. The other movement patterns listed are correct for enhancing the range of motion for shoulder flexion.
Q13An occupational therapist is working with a stroke patient who is experiencing difficulty in walking due to abnormal muscle tone. Which type of abnormal muscle tone is characterized by continuous resistance during passive movement with no clasp-knife response?
✓ Correct answer: A. Lead pipe rigidity
Lead pipe rigidity is characterized by uniform resistance throughout the range of movement, with no clasp-knife phenomenon. Clasp-knife spasticity refers to increased resistance at the start of movement followed by sudden release. Cogwheel rigidity is a type of rigidity seen in Parkinson's disease where the resistance to movement is jerky. Flaccidity refers to decreased muscle tone, leading to a loose or floppy limb.
Q14A COTA is assisting a school-aged child who has difficulty carrying a heavy backpack. After observing the child's routine for a week, what should the COTA advise the child not to do?
✓ Correct answer: D. Sling the backpack over one shoulder
Answer: Sling the backpack over one shoulder Slinging the backpack over one shoulder is not recommended as it can lead to strain and injury. Using both straps, adjusting the height, and packing strategically are advised practices for proper backpack use.
Q15A patient presents to an occupational therapy clinic with carpal tunnel syndrome. Their evaluation report notes that they have undergone "every conservative treatment with limited success." Which of the following is NOT a conservative intervention for carpal tunnel syndrome?
✓ Correct answer: C. Surgical release
Answer: Surgical release Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated surgically, but this is not considered conservative management. Conservative treatments include wrist splinting, NSAIDs, and activity modification, which aim to reduce symptoms without surgery.
Q16In the context of the WRAP approach in mental health intervention, if an occupational therapy assistant is gathering information while simultaneously providing reassurance about the client's feelings, which aspect of the WRAP method are they employing?
✓ Correct answer: D. Work with emotions and gather information
Answer: Work with emotions and gather information Within the WRAP approach, 'Work with emotions and gather information' involves acknowledging the client's feelings and asking questions to understand their situation comprehensively. The 'W' stands for being aware and thoughtful about the client's emotional state. 'R' represents reviewing the current circumstances and planning interventions based on findings. There are no roles for 'Acting on assessments' and 'Avoiding difficult conversations' in the WRAP framework.
Q17An OTA is working with a patient who recently began experiencing sensory issues due to neuropathy. What recommendations might an OTA make to help prevent injuries? Select the three BEST responses.
✓ Correct answer: C. Educate on inspecting areas prone to pressure marks using a mirror
Individuals with neuropathy should be trained to inspect for pressure marks, especially on areas like heels, using a mirror to ensure they can see hard-to-reach or hidden areas. It's important to use padding or appropriate measures to protect areas prone to pressure-related injuries, especially during prolonged activities. Checking water temperature with the elbow helps prevent burns due to impaired temperature sensation in the hands. Individuals should avoid walking barefoot or neglecting protective footwear to prevent injuries to the feet.
Q18An occupational therapy assistant is supporting a child in developing handwriting skills. At what age should it be expected that a child can write their first and last name legibly?
✓ Correct answer: D. 6-7 years
By ages 6 to 7, children typically have developed the fine motor skills needed to write both their first and last names legibly. At 3 to 4 years, children generally begin to recognize and scribble letters or simple words. At 4 to 5 years, they may write their first names with some legibility. By 5 to 6 years, they often can write basic words and some parts of the last name.
Q19An OTA is working with a group of adults in a long-term care facility aiming to improve their overall wellness. Which areas should be prioritized in their intervention plan? Select the three BEST responses.
✓ Correct answer: A. Providing education on healthy diet and nutrition
Focusing on activities that are meaningful helps improve quality of life and engagement. Educating on healthy diet supports physical health, while reducing stress and anxiety promotes emotional well-being. Vigorous exercise and sports are less appropriate for this setting, and communication skills have different priority levels.
Q20A COTA is working with a client who has a partial thickness burn injury in the healing phase. Which of the following steps should the therapist follow during assessment to evaluate the sensory recovery?
✓ Correct answer: A. Use the index finger to lightly touch the surface of the burn area and surrounding skin
Correct practice: Use the index finger to lightly touch the surface of the burn area and surrounding skin. Light touch can help assess sensory recovery as the area starts to heal. It's also essential to compare sensitivity in the affected area with adjacent healthy skin.
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