Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

Which assessment involves a scoring system based on 14 tasks to measure a patient's risk for falls?

1. The Tinetti test

2. The Timed Get Up and Go test

3. The Berg Balance scale

4. The Functional Reach test

The correct answer is: The Berg Balance scale

The answer provided identifies the Berg Balance Scale as the assessment that measures a patient's risk for falls based on a scoring system involving 14 tasks. This assessment specifically evaluates various aspects of balance and functional mobility, which are critical components in determining an individual's potential for falling. The tasks included in the Berg Balance Scale assess balance in static and dynamic situations, such as standing, reaching, turning, and moving from standing to sitting, among others. Each task is scored on a scale, which provides insight into the patient's balance capabilities and guides physical therapists in designing effective intervention strategies. While the other assessments mentioned also evaluate balance and mobility, they differ in their approach, structure, and scoring systems. For example, the Tinetti test combines assessments of balance and gait but has a different focus and scoring framework. The Timed Get Up and Go test primarily measures the time it takes for a patient to stand up, walk a few meters, and sit back down, rather than scoring 14 distinct tasks. The Functional Reach test specifically focuses on the reach distance of an individual and doesn't incorporate a wide range of functional tasks like the Berg Balance Scale does. Overall, the Berg Balance Scale is distinct for its comprehensive evaluation of a patient's risk for falls through a robust scoring system encompassing