NBCOT Occupational Therapy Certification Practice Exam

When assessing motor control following a traumatic injury, evaluating muscle tone and coordination is essential. Muscle tone refers to the state of tension in a muscle at rest, which can significantly impact an individual's ability to perform movements effectively. Abnormal muscle tone—whether it is too high (hypertonia) or too low (hypotonia)—can interfere with the execution of coordinated movements and overall functional abilities.

Coordination involves the ability to integrate and synchronize different movements, which is critical for executing tasks smoothly and effectively. Any disruptions in muscle tone can lead to difficulties in achieving coordinated actions, thus affecting daily activities and rehabilitation progress.

In this context, while awareness of personal safety may be important for overall rehabilitation, it is not directly related to the mechanics of motor control assessment. Manual dexterity, though relevant, is often a result of having appropriate muscle tone and coordination. Motor planning skills are also significant, but they typically follow the foundational aspects of muscle tone and coordination. Therefore, the assessment of muscle tone and coordination provides crucial insights into a person's motor control capabilities during recovery from a traumatic injury.