NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification Practice Exam

Increasing the number of towels from 10 to 20 is the most effective modification for improving endurance when performing a task like placing towels on a high shelf. Endurance is defined as the ability to sustain activity over a period of time. By doubling the number of towels, the individual must engage in the activity for a longer duration, thereby promoting muscle endurance as they repeatedly lift and place the towels.

This approach focuses on the repetition of the same movement, which is essential for building endurance in the muscles involved in the task. The muscles work to manage the increased load over time, fostering strength and endurance simultaneously.

The other modifications may support various aspects of the activity but do not directly maximize endurance. For instance, placing the towels on a higher shelf may increase the challenge of lifting but doesn't necessarily extend the time the muscles are actively working. Placing the towels on a lower shelf could reduce the effort required, thereby minimizing the engagement of the shoulder muscles, which is counterproductive for building endurance. Adding a weight, while it does increase load, might lead to premature fatigue and potentially alter technique or safety without the necessary increase in repetition over time that is crucial for developing endurance. Thus, increasing the number of towels best aligns with the goal of enhancing endurance during the