Biophysical Agents: Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) review questions

1. What is the primary physiological mechanism by which intermittent pneumatic compression assists in venous return?

Mechanical compression mimicking the muscle pump

2. Which of the following is not an outcome measure associated with IPC use?

Decreased bone density with prolonged use

3. IPC is also known as:

Vasopneumatic compression

4. Which of the following is the most important preventive measure for venous thromboembolism (VTE)?

Early mobilization and ambulation

5. IPC can be beneficial in patients with venous stasis ulcers primarily because:

It mimics the calf muscle pump to enhance venous return

6. A patient with peripheral artery disease (PAD) asks about using IPC. What should the physical therapist emphasize in addition to IPC use?

Weight-bearing exercises to promote circulation

7. A patient recently had a skin graft on the lower extremity. How should this affect the use of IPC?

Delay IPC to avoid interfering with graft adherence

8. Which of the following patients should not receive IPC treatment?

A patient with acute pulmonary edema

9. Which of the following conditions is a precaution, not an absolute contraindication, for IPC?

Impaired sensation or mentation

10. Which of the following could happen if IPC is used on a patient with a recent DVT?

Thrombus dislodgement leading to pulmonary embolism

11. Before beginning IPC, which of the following actions is most appropriate?

Measure limb circumference to assess edema

During IPC setup, the patient should be instructed to:

Empty their bladder prior to treatment

A patient has mild erythema following IPC treatment. What should the therapist do?

Document the response and reassess skin integrity

A 60-year-old woman with chronic lymphedema following mastectomy presents for IPC treatment. What is an appropriate intervention approach?

Apply IPC with gradual inflation cycles and monitor skin

A 72-year-old male with uncontrolled hypertension reports lower leg swelling and requests compression therapy. What should the therapist do?

Defer IPC until hypertension is controlled