College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

How should a therapist safely assess functional limitations in the hands and fingers of a patient with acute rheumatoid arthritis?

1. Ask about their ability to perform wrist curls

2. Ask about their ability to button clothing and hand write

3. Perform a grip strength test

4. Evaluate hand range of motion

The correct answer is: Ask about their ability to button clothing and hand write

Assessing functional limitations in patients with acute rheumatoid arthritis involves focusing on their ability to perform daily activities that require hand and finger mobility and dexterity. Asking about the ability to button clothing and handwrite is particularly effective because these activities are directly related to functional use of the hands and illustrate how the condition affects the patient's quality of life. Engaging patients with questions about their daily tasks helps in understanding the impact of their condition on their everyday functioning, which is essential for developing a helpful treatment plan. This choice captures the real-world limitations that affect the patient's independence and functionality, reflecting a patient-centered approach to assessment. While other options like performing a grip strength test or evaluating hand range of motion can provide valuable clinical information, they are more focused on physical capabilities rather than functional outcomes. Similarly, asking about wrist curls does not directly assess the specific limitations in hand and finger function that impact daily living. Thus, the chosen approach offers a more relevant and practical assessment of functional limitations in patients with acute rheumatoid arthritis.