Athletic Training Practice Exam

During a pre-participation physical examination utilizing stations, who can perform an exam for adenopathy, genital abnormalities, and hernias?

1. Athletic training student

2. Physician or physician assistant

3. Physical therapist

4. Certified athletic trainer

The correct answer is: Physician or physician assistant

The ability to perform an examination for adenopathy, genital abnormalities, and hernias is generally reserved for licensed healthcare professionals with the appropriate training and authority, primarily physicians and physician assistants. These medical providers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to identify and diagnose conditions related to lymphatic status (adenopathy), reproductive health (genital abnormalities), and the presence of hernias, which can be critical for an athlete's safety and health. Physicians and physician assistants are trained to conduct comprehensive physical examinations, including the assessment of sensitive areas. Their medical education includes a deep understanding of anatomy, potential pathological conditions, and the implications of any findings related to these exams. This comprehensive training ensures that any abnormalities can be accurately identified, and if necessary, managed appropriately, which is essential in a pre-participation physical examination to ensure athletes are fit to compete. In contrast, while an athletic training student, certified athletic trainer, or physical therapist may play significant roles in the healthcare team, their scope of practice typically does not include performing full examinations of this nature. Athletic training students and certified athletic trainers are primarily focused on injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, while physical therapists are skilled in movement and function rather than performing medical examinations of this kind.