NPTE-PT Physio 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.
Q11Physical therapists must adhere to proper handling and disposal of sharps to prevent accidental injury and infection. Failing to do so can result in significant harm to both patients and healthcare workers. Which of the following is a widely accepted standard precaution when handling sharps?
✓ Correct answer: C. Use puncture-resistant containers for disposing of sharps
Answer: Use puncture-resistant containers for disposing of sharps According to standard precautions, sharps should be disposed of in puncture-resistant containers to prevent accidental injuries. Recapping needles can lead to accidental needle-stick injuries and should be avoided. Sharps should not be disposed of in regular trash bins or stored in patients' rooms as these practices significantly increase the risk of infection and injury.
Q12A physical therapist is evaluating a 45-year-old male patient in a hospital setting. During the assessment, the therapist notes that the patient has gained weight, has dry skin, and displays bradycardia. The patient also complains of feeling fatigued and has been experiencing constipation. Which of the following is the MOST likely explanation for these findings?
✓ Correct answer: A. Hypothyroidism
Answer: Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism describes the decreased secretion of thyroid hormones. It is most common in females aged 30-60 and involves symptoms such as weight gain, hair loss, fatigue, bradycardia, constipation, fibromyalgia, and depression. Hyperthyroidism describes the increased secretion of thyroid hormones. It is most common in females aged 20-40 and involves symptoms such as weight loss, excessive sweating, diarrhea, and tremors. Hypoparathyroidism describes the decreased secretion of parathyroid hormone. Hypercortisolism describes increased cortisol production by the adrenal glands or excess of corticosteroid medication.
Q13A physical therapist is working with a patient diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. They discuss the potential complications of the condition and provide education on lifestyle changes to manage it. Which of the following complications is LEAST likely associated with metabolic syndrome?
✓ Correct answer: D. Increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Answer: Increased risk of developing osteoporosis. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, including increased waist circumference, elevated blood pressure, elevated blood glucose levels, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, that collectively increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Osteoporosis is not directly associated with metabolic syndrome, making it the least likely complication among the options given. Patients with metabolic syndrome are also at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and elevated blood pressure, which are commonly observed complications of the syndrome.
Q14A person with Type 2 diabetes is starting a new exercise program under the supervision of a physical therapist. Which of the following is a potential complication that must be considered?
✓ Correct answer: C. Hypoglycemia
Answer: Hypoglycemia Individuals with Type 2 diabetes are at risk for hypoglycemia, especially when starting a new exercise regimen. The physical therapist must monitor blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise sessions to prevent excessive drops in blood glucose. Other potential complications include cardiovascular events, neuropathic pain, and musculoskeletal injuries due to altered biomechanics. Regular exercise, however, can provide numerous benefits such as improved blood glucose control, weight management, and reduced cardiovascular risk. Enhanced cognitive function and mental clarity are positive effects of exercise, not complications.
Q15A patient with shortness of breath and palpitations undergoes a physical examination. You are provided with an echocardiogram report that reveals backflow of blood into the right atrium during ventricular systole. What is the MOST likely affected cardiac valve?
✓ Correct answer: D. Tricuspid valve
Answer: Tricuspid valve The tricuspid valve is an atrioventricular valve that prevents backflow of blood into the right atrium during ventricular systole. The pulmonary valve is a semilunar valve that prevents backflow of blood into the right ventricle during diastole. The bicuspid (mitral) valve is an atrioventricular valve preventing backflow of blood into the left atrium during ventricular systole. The aortic valve is a semilunar valve that prevents backflow of blood into the left ventricle during diastole.
Q16A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) presents with difficulty in expelling air from the lungs, resulting in hyperinflation. To assist this patient, which of the following interventions is the MOST appropriate?
✓ Correct answer: B. Pursed lip breathing
Answer: Pursed lip breathing Pursed lip breathing is employed to decrease respiratory rate, improve gas exchange, and reduce dyspnea in patients with COPD. It helps in expelling trapped air, thus reducing hyperinflation. Segmental breathing is used to target specific segments of the lung, typically for cases at risk of atelectasis, which is not the primary issue in patients with COPD. Diaphragmatic breathing aims to increase ventilation and improve gas exchange but does not specifically address the problem of trapped air in COPD. Percussion and vibration are techniques usually used to mobilize bronchial secretions, which is not indicated for the primary problem of air trapping in COPD.
Q17A patient in a cardiac rehabilitation program post-MI is performing a treadmill exercise. During the session, the patient suddenly experiences shortness of breath and a squeezing sensation in their chest. What is the MOST likely cause of these symptoms?
✓ Correct answer: A. Angina pectoris
Answer: Angina pectoris Angina pectoris is characterized by chest pain or pressure due to ischemia, often triggered by physical exertion. Though a myocardial infarction (MI) is a possibility, it is typically associated with prolonged chest pain, radiating arm pain, and more severe symptoms. A pulmonary embolism would present with acute shortness of breath and potentially leg swelling, and an asthma attack would primarily involve respiratory distress without the characteristic chest pressure.
Q18A physical therapist is preparing to assist with secretion drainage from a segment of a patient's lung. The physical therapist positions the patient in a sitting position, leaning back at a 45-degree angle, over a flat table. Given this positioning, in which area is the physical therapist MOST likely attempting to assist with drainage?
✓ Correct answer: A. Apical segments of the upper lobes
Answer: Apical segments of the upper lobes To assist with secretion drainage in the apical segments of the upper lobes, the physical therapist should position the patient sitting and leaning back at a 45-degree angle. Clapping between the patient's clavicle and the superior aspect of the scapula on each side further assists in the drainage. For secretion drainage in the anterior basal segments of the lower lobes, the patient should be positioned on their side with the head down and the foot of the bed elevated 20 inches. For secretion drainage in the superior segments of the lower lobes, position the patient prone on a flat table with two pillows under the hips. For secretion drainage in the lateral basal segments of the lower lobes, position the patient on their side with the foot of the bed elevated 20 inches.
Q19A 60-year-old male patient recently underwent thoracic surgery and has developed atelectasis. During physical therapy, the therapist claps over the patient's upper back on either side of the spine. What is the MOST likely goal of this intervention?
✓ Correct answer: B. Drainage of the superior segments of the upper lobes
Answer: Drainage of the superior segments of the upper lobes A physical therapist can assist secretion drainage in the superior segments of the upper lobes by clapping over the upper back on either side of the spine. Since this patient developed atelectasis following thoracic surgery, postural drainage is indicated. A physical therapist can assist secretion drainage in the lateral basal segments of the lower lobes by clapping over the uppermost portion of the lower ribs. Secretion drainage of the posterior basal segments of the lower lobes can be facilitated by clapping over the lower ribs near the spine. Drainage of the right middle lobe can be assisted by clapping over the right nipple area.
Q20A physical therapist is assessing a 75-year-old female patient who has recently undergone total hip replacement surgery. The therapist uses a standardized test to objectively evaluate the patient's mobility and functional capabilities. Which of the following instruments would be the LEAST effective tool to assess the patient's overall functional mobility?
✓ Correct answer: C. Stroke Impact Scale (SIS)
Answer: Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) The Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) is designed to measure the effects of a stroke on a patient's health and life, including cognitive and emotional aspects. While this tool is valuable for stroke patients, it is not as effective in assessing the physical mobility of a patient recovering from total hip replacement. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test is designed to assess mobility, balance, walking ability, and fall risk in older adults. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) measures balance through various tasks. The Functional Independence Measure (FIM) provides a comprehensive evaluation of a patient's physical, psychological, and social functioning.
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