FREE MBLEx Test Pathology & Contraindications Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client presents with a localized skin infection characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pus. Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to a medical professional and postpone massage until the infection clears.

Answer

Proceed with the massage, but avoid direct contact with the infected area.

Answer

Apply ice to the infected area during the massage to reduce inflammation.

Answer

Recommend an essential oil blend to the client for topical application on the infection.

Question 2

Which of the following conditions is considered a local contraindication for massage, meaning massage can be performed but the affected area should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Recent localized sprain (e.g., ankle sprain, within 48-72 hours)

Answer

Systemic fever of unknown origin

Answer

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Answer

Severe, uncontrolled hypertension

Question 3

A client discloses they are undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. What is the primary consideration for a massage therapist regarding this client?

Accepted Answer

Massage is generally safe, but session duration and pressure should be significantly reduced, and consent from an oncologist is advisable.

Answer

Chemotherapy is an absolute contraindication for all massage, and the client should be refused.

Answer

Deep tissue massage is beneficial for pain relief in cancer patients and should be applied aggressively.

Answer

Massage can only be performed if the client has completed all chemotherapy treatments.

Question 4

During an intake, a client reports experiencing sudden, sharp pain and swelling in their calf that started yesterday, along with some warmth to the touch. The therapist notices redness. What should the massage therapist do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately refer the client to their physician and postpone the massage.

Answer

Proceed with a gentle, superficial massage to the calf to improve circulation.

Answer

Apply heat to the area to soothe the muscle and reduce pain.

Answer

Perform range of motion exercises on the ankle to assess the extent of the injury.

Question 5

Which of the following pathologies would typically require a massage therapist to significantly modify their technique, such as avoiding direct pressure or areas of fragility, rather than being an outright contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis

Answer

Acute appendicitis

Answer

Active impetigo

Answer

Aneurysm

Question 6

A client has a history of congestive heart failure (CHF). What is a primary concern for a massage therapist when working with this client?

Accepted Answer

Monitoring for signs of fluid overload or difficulty breathing, and avoiding positions that could exacerbate breathing issues.

Answer

Avoiding any massage to the lower extremities to prevent blood clots.

Answer

Ensuring the client is adequately hydrated before and after the session.

Answer

Limiting the massage to very short durations (e.g., 10-15 minutes) only.

A client presents with a localized skin infection characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pus.Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

A client presents with a localized skin infection characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pus.
Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?