National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is the recommended maximum inflation pressure for intermittent pneumatic compression?

1. Systolic blood pressure plus 10 mm Hg

2. Diastolic blood pressure minus 10 mm Hg

3. Diastolic blood pressure plus 10 mm Hg

4. Systolic blood pressure minus 10 mm Hg

The correct answer is: Diastolic blood pressure minus 10 mm Hg

The recommended maximum inflation pressure for intermittent pneumatic compression is designated to ensure safety while effectively promoting venous return and minimizing the risk of adverse effects. The correct answer, which is diastolic blood pressure minus 10 mm Hg, reflects a guideline aimed at preventing excessive pressure that could compromise circulation or harm the vascular system. The rationale for using diastolic pressure as a baseline is that it represents the lowest arterial pressure during the cardiac cycle, indicating the level of pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats. By subtracting 10 mm Hg from this value, the maximum inflation pressure of the compression device can be set just below the diastolic level, thereby maintaining a balance between effective compression and safety, avoiding potential complications such as pain, discomfort, or ischemia. This approach ensures that the pressure applied during the compression phase is adequate to promote fluid movement while not exceeding the healthy vascular pressure thresholds, which could lead to adverse effects. Hence, it is crucial for physical therapists and clinicians to follow this guideline to maintain patient safety and the efficacy of the treatment.