Module4_Flashcards_Part2

Question 1

Front

Answer 1

Back

Question 2

What are the core steps to rate impairment using the AMA Guides?

Answer 2

Identify body part/chapter, determine diagnosis/class, measure deficits, select impairment % table, combine values, convert to WPI.

Question 3

Which AMA Guides chapters are most used for MSK injuries?

Answer 3

Chapters 15–17 (Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, Spine).

Question 4

What two spine rating methods are recognized in CA?

Answer 4

DRE (Diagnosis-Related Estimates) and ROM (Range of Motion) methods.

Question 5

When is DRE method typically used for spine?

Answer 5

For distinct injuries with objective findings like radiculopathy or fractures.

Question 6

When is ROM method used for spine?

Answer 6

When impairment not captured by DRE or for multi-level/complex cases requiring measured motion loss.

Question 7

What are ADLs in impairment rating?

Answer 7

Activities of Daily Living used to gauge functional impact (e.g., self-care, mobility, sleep).

Question 8

What is the pain add-on limit in AMA Guides 5th?

Answer 8

Up to 3% WPI for pain-related impairment when appropriate.

Question 9

How do you combine multiple impairments in AMA Guides?

Answer 9

Use the Combined Values Chart (CVC) to avoid simple addition.

Question 10

What is gait derangement used for?

Answer 10

Lower extremity ratings when abnormal gait is documented and criteria met.

Question 11

What are common upper extremity rating components?

Answer 11

ROM limits, strength loss (rare), peripheral nerve deficits, and specific diagnoses (e.g., rotator cuff).

Question 12

What is WPI conversion from regional impairment?

Answer 12

Convert upper/lower extremity % to WPI using AMA Guides conversion tables.

Question 13

What is apportionment analysis in the report?

Answer 13

Explain the % of disability due to work vs. nonindustrial factors with rationale.

Question 14

How are age and occupation used after WPI?

Answer 14

Applied by DEU as modifiers to adjust WPI into permanent disability %.

Question 15

What is the PD rating string?

Answer 15

A notation showing WPI %, age, occupation and adjustments to arrive at PD %.

Question 16

What rounding rules apply to WPI?

Answer 16

Round to the nearest whole percent as per AMA Guides convention.

Question 17

What must the physician declaration attest to?

Answer 17

That the report is true, correct, and prepared in compliance with DWC rules.

Question 18

What makes a report ‘substantial medical evidence’?

Answer 18

Adequate history, objective findings, analysis, and conclusions on reasonable medical probability.

Question 19

What must be stated about future medical care?

Answer 19

Whether treatment is needed after MMI and what type/frequency is expected.

Question 20

What should be included for work restrictions?

Answer 20

Specific functional limits (e.g., lifting, repetitive use, mental stress) tied to findings.

Question 21

Why include a job analysis?

Answer 21

To compare restrictions with essential job functions and RTW feasibility.