Name two essential components of the pre-participation physical examination (PPE) used to screen athletes.

• A. Height and weight only
• B. Medical history review and a systems-based physical examination.
• C. Family history and dental records
• D. Blood type and vaccination status

Answer: (B)

The essential components of the PPE are a thorough medical history and a structured physical examination that reviews all major body systems. The medical history collects information about past illnesses, surgeries, medications, allergies, and family history, which helps identify risk factors that might require further evaluation or clearance before participating. The systems-based physical examination then evaluates key body systems—cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, musculoskeletal, vision/hearing, and skin—to detect signs or symptoms that could affect safety in sport. This combination ensures you screen for problems that could limit participation or need further testing, rather than relying on simple measurements like height and weight or ancillary data such as dental records, blood type, or vaccination status.