What is a disadvantage of a passive prosthesis?

• A. It does not provide active grasping function
• B. It requires extensive electronics to operate
• C. It provides automatic sensory feedback
• D. It never stains or discolors

Answer: (A)

The core idea here is that a passive prosthesis has no powered grasping capability. It’s designed mainly for cosmetic appearance or for stabilizing a limb position, not for actively manipulating objects. Because it isn’t motorized or muscle-driven, it can’t close around or adjust to objects on its own, so the user must rely on other strategies or devices to achieve a real grip. This limits tasks that require holding, manipulating, or applying variable grip force, like picking up slippery items, turning a doorknob, or using utensils.

Other statements don’t reflect this limitation. A passive prosthesis uses little to no electronics, so it isn’t characterized by extensive electronics to operate. It also does not inherently provide automatic sensory feedback, which is characteristic of some advanced devices but not typical of a purely passive design. The idea that it never stains or discolors isn’t a functional disadvantage and isn’t the point of why passive devices are limited.