Patient Assessment for Hijama Flashcards

A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) presents for hijama. What is the most appropriate action?

Answer: Refer the patient to their physician before treatment

Active or recent DVT is a contraindication for hijama, and medical clearance is required before proceeding.

When reviewing a patient's medications, which drug class most significantly contraindicates wet hijama?

Answer: Anticoagulants such as warfarin

Anticoagulants increase bleeding risk, making the incisions of wet hijama potentially dangerous.

During a patient interview, the patient discloses she is 10 weeks pregnant. Which hijama points are strictly avoided?

Answer: Abdominal, lumbar, and pelvic points

Abdominal, lumbar, and pelvic points are contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of inducing uterine contractions.

A practitioner notes that a patient's skin over the intended cupping site shows active eczema. The correct response is to:

Answer: Choose an alternative site free of skin lesions

Hijama should never be applied directly over broken, inflamed, or diseased skin; an alternative healthy site must be selected.

Which vital sign finding would cause a practitioner to postpone a scheduled hijama session?

Answer: Blood pressure of 180/110 mmHg

Severely elevated blood pressure (hypertensive crisis range) is a contraindication requiring medical evaluation before hijama.

What is the primary purpose of recording a patient's hemoglobin or hematocrit values before wet hijama?

Answer: To assess the patient's capacity to tolerate blood loss safely

Low hemoglobin or hematocrit levels indicate anemia, making additional blood removal through wet hijama unsafe.

A patient reports he fasted for 20 hours prior to his appointment. How should the practitioner respond?

Answer: Reschedule the session and advise the patient to eat a light meal beforehand

Extended fasting can cause hypoglycemia and dizziness during wet hijama; patients should have eaten 2–3 hours before treatment.