NBCOT Plan

NBCOT exam practice question: Domain 03: Select and Manage Interventions

Domain 03: Select and Manage InterventionsDifficulty 2/5

Which activity is an occupation-based intervention rather than a preparatory method?

  1. APassive range of motion to the shoulder to maintain joint mobility
  2. BApplying a moist heat pack to the forearm before a treatment session
  3. CTen minutes of therapy-putty exercises to strengthen the finger flexors
  4. DMaking a sandwich in the kitchen using the client's own adapted knife
Show answer and rationale

Correct: D. An occupation-based intervention uses the meaningful activity itself as the treatment. Putty, passive range of motion and modalities are preparatory methods that get the client ready for occupation.

  • C — Putty exercise is a preparatory method targeting a component.
  • A — Passive range of motion is preparatory and not client-directed occupation.
  • B — Thermal modalities prepare tissue rather than engage occupation.

Concept being tested

The largest domain at 38% of the OTR exam. Selecting and implementing interventions for a client-centred plan — occupations and activities, preparatory methods and tasks, education and training, advocacy, group interventions, adaptive equipment and assistive technology, splinting, environmental modification and safety. — 38% of the exam. Study guide for Domain 03: Select and Manage Interventions.

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Primary references

  1. Certification Exam Handbook (2025) — National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) · primary · retrieved 2026-09-22, verified 2026-09-22
Last reviewed: 2026-10-07Reviewed by: Jessica Lin, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational therapy clinical practice & item reviewHow we verify facts