ESTIM

Question 1

Short Pulses and low-current amplitudes are used for?

Answer 1

• Sensory stimulation

Question 2

Longer pulses and higher amplitudes are used for?

Answer 2

• Motor Stimulation

Question 3

WaveForms

Answer 3

• Alternating Current (AC)
• Interferential Current (IFC)
• Premodulated Current
• Direct Current (DC)
• Pulsed Current
• Russian Current
• Iontophoresis

Question 4

Time Dependent Parameters

Answer 4

• Pulse Duration
• Phase Duration
• Interpulse Interval

Question 5

Effects of Electrical Currents

Answer 5

• Stimulation of AP in nerves (NMES)
• Action potential Propagation
• Direct muscle depolarization
• Ionic Effects

Question 6

Action Potential Propagation

Answer 6

• Once an AP is generated it triggers an AP in the adjacent area of the nerve membrane

Question 7

Direct Muscle Depolarization

Answer 7

• Denervated muscles do not contract in response to the pulses of electricity that produce contractions in innervated muscles
• This requires pulses of electricity lasting 10 ms or longer and is known as Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)

Question 8

Contraindications for ESTIM

Answer 8

• Demand cardiac pacemaker or unstable arrhythmias
• Placement of electrodes over carotid sinus
• Areas where venous or arterial thrombosis or thrombophlebitis is present
• Pregnancy: over or around abdomen or LB

Question 9

Precautions or ESTIM

Answer 9

• Cardiac Disease
• Pt’s with impaired mentation or in areas with impaired sensation
• Malignant tumors
• Areas of skin irritation or open wounds

Question 10

Adverse Effects

Answer 10

• Burns
• Skin Irritations
• Pain

Question 11

Application Technique

Answer 11

• Eval Pt
• Determine appropriateness and safety
• Select device
• Prepare Pt
• Explain Procedure
• Remove metal / clothing in treatment area
• Inspect Skin
• Position Pt and device
• Check and apply electrodes
• Select treatment parameters: (Waveform, Polarity, Frequency, Pulse Duration, On/Off Time, Ramp Up/Down and Treatment Duration)
• Turn on Machine
• Document: (Area Treated, Pt Positioning, Stimulation Parameters, Electrode Placement, Treatment Duration and Response to Tx)