Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What action should a physical therapist assistant take if a patient on supplemental oxygen has an oxygen saturation falling to the lower limit but reports feeling fine?

1. Stop the exercise session

2. Continue the exercise session

3. Increase supplemental oxygen

4. Monitor the patient closely

The correct answer is: Continue the exercise session

In situations where a patient on supplemental oxygen experiences a drop in oxygen saturation to the lower limit but reports feeling fine, continuing the exercise session may be the most appropriate action. This is based on the understanding that some patients can tolerate lower oxygen saturation levels without experiencing significant distress or functional limitations, particularly if they are asymptomatic. When determining whether to continue or stop an exercise session, it is crucial to assess the patient's overall condition and response to the activity. If the patient feels fine, it indicates a level of comfort and stability that supports the decision to proceed. The focus should be on monitoring the patient's vital signs, ensuring that they are not in any acute distress, and remaining attentive to any changes that could arise as the exercise continues. This approach aligns with the goals of physical therapy, which often include encouraging mobility and function while managing underlying health conditions. It’s also important to consider the exercise intensity and the patient's overall treatment plan when making this decision. Other options, such as stopping the session or increasing supplemental oxygen without an assessment, may not represent the most effective approach to maintaining the patient's engagement in their rehabilitation and promoting independence. Monitoring the patient closely is a good practice but, when paired with the patient's reported comfort, does not necessitate halting the